Molson Coors Beverage Company has entered into an exclusive partnership with La Colombe, which will see it distribute the company’s ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee products across the US.
The deal is the latest in a series of moves by Molson Coors to expand its business beyond the beer aisle since re-branding itself as Molson Coors Beverage Company. Just this month, the company inked a deal with Coco-Cola to manufacture, market and distribute Topo Chico Hard Seltzer in the US.
Headquartered in Philadelphia, La Colombe is a coffee roaster that provides signature classic blends and single-origin coffees to cafés, hotels, restaurants and retailers around the world.
As part of the deal, Molson Coors will begin distributing La Colombe’s Draft Latte and Brazilian Cold Brew products in the drug and convenience channels from January 2021.
The partnership also includes extensions of all existing RTD coffee product lines and future RTD products, while Molson Coors will in addition have access to any new, innovative products the coffee roaster may develop.
By leveraging Molson Coors’ distribution network, the companies claim that La Colombe’s retail footprint in drug and convenience stores will more than double.
Over time, the companies plan to fully transition distribution for all channels to the Molson Coors network.
“This is one more way we’re innovating beyond our traditional product lines to deliver what consumers want,” said Pete Marino, president of emerging growth at Molson Coors.
He added: “It’s a mutually beneficial partnership for all; La Colombe will enhance its reach through our established distribution network, our distributors will benefit from access to another fast-growing, high-demand product they can offer their retailer customers, and Molson Coors adds an above-premium offering to the top of our non-alcohol roster of brands.”
The coffee roaster’s products will join the brewer’s recently-announced non-alcoholic offerings including a probiotic seltzer, a plant-based diet soda and a grain-based milk alternative.
Todd Carmichael, CEO and co-founder of La Colombe Coffee Roasters, said: “This partnership has been years in the making. We will combine our product innovation and growing brand with the strength and breadth of Molson Coors’ extensive distribution network and powerful retailer relationships. For us, this is an exciting recipe to deliver beautiful coffees to more people across the country.”
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