Pernod debuts Absolut & Sprite RTD

The Coca-Cola Company and Pernod Ricard have partnered to launch a canned Absolut Vodka & Sprite.

The ready-to-drink (RTD) serve will combine Absolut Vodka and lemon-lime sparkling soft drink Sprite. A zero-sugar Sprite option will also be available.

The co-branded canned drink will initially launch in select European countries in early 2024, including the UK, the Netherlands, Spain and Germany.

“This very promising and pioneering project brings together two leading companies who are committed to offering their consumers new experiences around premium products,” said Alexandre Ricard, Pernod Ricard CEO.

“Sprite is a wonderful pairing for Absolut, and I’m convinced that our joining forces will bring the whole alcohol RTD category to the next level.”

Data from CGA in June found that more than two-thirds (70%) of American consumers are more likely to opt for a vodka-based RTD beverage over any other spirit.

James Quincey, chairman and CEO of The Coca‑Cola Company, added: “We are expanding in the alcohol ready-to-drink space, including products that use select brands from our core portfolio. We are excited about our new relationship with Pernod Ricard and look forward to the introduction of Absolut & Sprite.”

The packaging for the new 5% ABV RTD will feature both Absolut and Sprite’s trademarks.

In November 2022, Pernod Ricard invested US$22 million to install its first RTD canning line at the company’s plant in Arkansas, US.