Versatility of RTD Drinks: Catering to Diverse Lifestyles and Preferences by Leading Ready-to-Drink Beverages Brands

Ready-to-drink beverages are pre-packaged drinks that require no preparation and are ready for immediate consumption upon purchase. Unlike traditional beverage mixes or powders, RTD beverages such as coffee, smoothies, energy drinks, yogurt drinks, bottled or canned ice tea, and alcopops (pre-mixed alcohol cocktails) are convenient options for consumers seeking instant refreshment.

Malt-based RTDs utilize a neutral malt base to craft smooth, approachable beverages with diverse flavor profiles. They are favored for their easy-drinking nature, encompassing options such as hard tea, hard kombucha, and hard seltzers. Increasing consumer demand for gut health-improving products, such as prebiotics and postbiotics, elevates market growth. The development of novel beverages incorporating herbs and botanicals further propels market expansion, encouraging manufacturers' research and development efforts.

As per a report by Fortune Business Insights™, the market for ready-to-drink beverages reached a value of USD 732.49 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to expand from USD 766.69 billion in 2024 to USD 1,227.81 billion by 2032. This growth signifies a CAGR of 6.06% over the forecast period.

Fortune Business Insights™ Profiles Top 10 Ready-to-drink Beverages Brands in the Market

The Coca-Cola Company

Coca-Cola, a global ready-to-drink beverages giant since 1892, operates in over 200 countries, offering a diverse range of products, including low-calorie options such as Sprite and Fanta. Committed to sustainability, it aims to minimize environmental impact while creating safe workplaces. In line with market trends, Coca-Cola is venturing into the alcoholic beverage segment, recently launching "Lemon Duo" in India for pilot testing in Maharashtra and Goa.

PepsiCo Inc.

PepsiCo, a global American company, leads in convenient ready-to-drink beverages and foods. It boasts iconic brands such as Quaker and Frito-Lay, which are consumed over a billion times in 200 countries. Guided by the mission of "Performance with Purpose," PepsiCo aims for sustainable growth and top financial performance. Aligning with this mission, PepsiCo aims to double beverage servings via reusable models by 2030 and has introduced 100% recycled rPET bottles for Pepsi Black, its latest beverage.

Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard, a French leader in ready-to-drink beverages brands for wine and spirits, offers luxury to premium brands such as Ballantine’s and Absolut Vodka, distributed across 75 countries. Known for innovation, the company recently launched a new single malt, Longitude 77, tailored for the Indian market, reflecting contemporary Indian luxury.

Diageo PLC

Diageo PLC, a leading multinational in alcoholic and ready-to-drink beverages, boasts over 200 brands sold in 180 countries, including Johnnie Walker and Smirnoff. Operating across 132 sites globally, it emphasizes premium quality. Embracing collaboration, Diageo partnered with Vita Coco in July 2022 to introduce premium canned cocktails blending Captain Morgan rum and Vita Coco coconut water, expanding its product range.

Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.

Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. leads in hot and cold beverages in the U.S. and beyond, offering a diverse range including juices, teas, and coffees, under brands such as Dr Pepper and Green Mountain. With a wide distribution network spanning bottlers, supermarkets, and e-commerce, KDP collaborates with industry giants such as Red Bull, recently expanding into Mexico to enhance its partner network strategy.

Danone SA

Danone SA, a French ready-to-drink beverages producer, focuses on four core business lines including Early Life Nutrition and plant-based products. With a rising demand for healthier and responsibly sourced options, Danone offers nutritious substitutes through its brands. Operating in 130 countries, it distributes products to both B2B and B2C markets via specialized channels and retail outlets, aligning with evolving consumer preferences.

Bacardi Limited

Bacardi Limited, a renowned family-owned liquor company with a 160-year legacy, boasts a portfolio of 200 brands including Bacardi and Grey Goose. Leveraging its popularity, Bacardi operates a global travel retail network, reaching cruise ships and airports. With manufacturing facilities across several countries, including Scotland and India, Bacardi recently expanded its Tails cocktails range in Western Europe, introducing new concoctions such as the rum punch and whisky sour crafted from its premium brands. 

Suntory Holding Ltd.

Suntory Holdings Ltd., a longstanding Japanese brewing company, is renowned for its Japanese whisky and other alcoholic beverages. Additionally, it manufactures consumer packaged goods, including health and wellness products. With a portfolio featuring brands such as Hibiki, Kakubin, and Jim Beam, Suntory products are distributed across approximately 85 countries and regions globally.

Molson Coors Brewing Company

Molson Coors Brewing Company, a Canadian-American firm, specializes in brewing beers and other beverages (ready-to-drink beverages), including hard seltzers and RTD cocktails such as  Miller High Life and Blue Moon. With a mission to innovate and modernize the American beer sector, Molson Coors gains popularity through sales in both off-premise and on-premise channels. Recently, the company renewed its partnership with The Coca-Cola Company to develop and market flavored alcohol products under its brand "Simply," enhancing its product offerings.

Abbott Laboratories

Abbott Laboratories, a leading American healthcare player, offers medical devices and infant nutrition products, leveraging nearly 90 years of expertise. With a strong global presence, Abbott generates significant revenue across Europe, the Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa, and North America. Expanding its product portfolio, the company introduced Pedialyte variants in December 2020, including Pedialyte with Immune Support and Pedialyte Sport, enriched with essential nutrients such as zinc and vitamins B12, C, and E.

How Ready-to-Drink Beverages Are Meeting Consumer Demands and Health Trends

RTD beverages have indeed revolutionized the way consumers enjoy their favorite drinks, offering convenience without compromising on taste or quality. The versatility of RTDs spans across various categories, catering to diverse preferences and lifestyles. Furthermore, the exploration of herbs and botanicals in RTD formulations adds another layer of innovation to the market. These ingredients contribute unique flavors and offer potential health benefits, appealing to health-conscious consumers looking for functional beverages. Overall, the ready-to-drink beverages market continues to evolve, driven by consumer preferences for convenience, flavor variety, and health benefits. Leading ready-to-drink beverages brands are likely to continue investing in research and development to meet these demands and capitalize on the growing popularity of RTD beverages.