Caribou Coffee launches RTD iced coffees

Starbucks announces RTD iced tea line with Anheuser-Busch

The beverage aisle has become one of my favorites when I’m at the grocery store. I’ve become known by the cashiers for purchasing a basket full of various ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, as I like to find something new to try on each trip and restock on my favorites.

Although my job likely influences me to purchase more RTD beverages than other consumers might, the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life drives many to choose the most convenient option available, and, often times, one that also provides an extra boost of energy to get through the day.

RTD beverages continue to grow in importance as their market share, in nearly every beverage category, increases. With this in mind, Caribou Coffee and Starbucks recently made news for announcing new RTD products in retail locations, giving consumers more choices and reaching them in even more locations.

In May, Caribou Coffee released its new RTD Caribou Premium Iced Coffee line. The lineup includes Chocolate Mocha, Vanilla and Sea Salt Caramel flavors and launched in grocery and convenience stores nationwide packaged in 14-ounce single-serve bottles.

More recently, Starbucks announced that it’s partnering with Anheuser-Busch to produce and distribute new Teavana RTD teas, which are anticipated to launch in the first half of 2017, the companies say. Starbucks is contributing Teavana’s expertise in tea, retail activation and consumer-engagement, while Anheuser-Busch will lead production, bottling and distribution. The premium, RTD lineup will integrate the handcrafted nature and epicurean flavors drawn from Starbucks’ and Teavana’s retail favorites, they add.

Both lines offer consumers the caffeine kick that many desire in an on-the-go packaging format that complements their lifestyles.

Amanda Del Buono, former associate editor of Beverage Industry, wrote and edited for the magazine’s print and online components. She also represented the magazine at trade shows and events. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from The University of Missouri - Columbia.

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