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Spirits-based RTDs gain ground in Montgomery County

The gap between spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) products and beer and wine in the US is narrowing after Montgomery County extended availability.

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Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services has allowed RTDs to be sold where beer and wine is sold

The Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) in Maryland, US, has permitted spirits-based RTDs to be sold at private retailers in the county where beer and wine are sold.

Licensees eligible to sell such products must apply for the rights via the ABS.

Andy Deloney, senior vice-president and head of state public policy at the Distilled Spirits Council of the US, said: “By allowing spirits-based RTDs to be sold where beer and wine are sold, Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services is increasing consumer convenience, supporting local businesses and boosting tax revenues in the county.

“ABS director Kathie Rubin and Montgomery County ABS are setting an example for others to follow by implementing this modernisation and allowing consumers to find the products they want, where they want them.”

The development means approximately 400 additional stores will be able to sell RTDs.

The measure will apply to liquor-based products mixed with other non-alcoholic liquids, that cannot sit above 8% ABV in a single-serve container.

In September 2024, IWSR Drinks Market Analysis data forecast RTDs and spirits would take a greater share of the global alcohol sector by 2028.

By 2028, IWSR predicted RTDs would have a 3% stake in the total beverage alcohol space.

In The Spirits BusinessWorld Spirits Report 2024, the RTD category was analysed to see what could be expected in 2025. A trio of RTD brands were also selected as ones to watch in the coming year.

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