Chicago-based Molson Coors Beverage Co. expanded its exclusive agreement with The Coca-Cola Co., Atlanta, to develop and commercialize a brand of full-flavor alcohol beverages inspired by the country’s No. 1 chilled juice brand: Simply. The deal marks another milestone in the relationship between Molson Coors and The Coca-Cola Co., following a successful first year for Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, the companies say.

“Over the past two years, we’ve seen success by shaking up existing categories with new brands that have clear, compelling points of difference, like Coca-Cola's Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, Vizzy Hard Seltzer and ZOA Energy Drink,” said Michelle St. Jacques, Molson Coors’ Chief Marketing Officer, in a statement. “Now, we have a huge opportunity to leverage the power of Simply ― a brand known for real juice and big flavor ― to disrupt the full-flavor alcohol segment in a way that’s never been done before.”

This summer, Molson Coors will start by launching the Simply Spiked Lemonade variety pack, inspired by some of Simply’s best-selling non-alcohol products, including Strawberry Lemonade, Watermelon Lemonade, Blueberry Lemonade and, of course, Signature Lemonade. 

As The Coca-Cola Co.’s second-largest U.S. brand in terms of net revenue after Coca-Cola, Simply is a $1 billion-plus and growing brand. Simply can be found in one of every two American households and is famous for its high-quality juices. The bold, great-tasting flavors of the Simply brand mix seamlessly with alcohol for cocktails, which inspired the ready-to-drink lineup. 

“The Coca-Cola Company and Molson Coors have a thriving relationship in North America. The proof is in the success of Topo Chico Hard Seltzer’s national expansion and the introduction of Topo Chico Ranch Water Hard Seltzer,” said Dan White, Chief of New Revenue Streams for Coca-Cola North America Operating Unit. “With this momentum, we are excited to expand our relationship with products inspired by another one of our most valuable brands: Simply. We believe people will be excited to try this delicious beverage when it arrives on shelves later this year.” 

Simply Spiked Lemonade will be sold in slim-can 12-packs as a variety pack, and 24-ounce standalone cans of select flavors. 

Simply Spiked Lemonade and the national expansion of Topo Chico Hard Seltzer mark the latest initiatives to aggressively grow Molson Coors’ above premium portfolio as part of the company’s revitalization plan.  

Molson Coors Beverage Co. will produce, distribute and market Simply Spiked Lemonade as part of an agreement with The Coca-Cola Co.