The -196 canned cocktails are making their way into the UK market as a series of Japanese heritage-inspired beverages that build on the brand's success as a traditional alcoholic refreshment. The ready-to-drink cocktails are arriving in two flavors including Lemon and Grapefruit, which each have a 6% ABV. The drinks are named after their manufacturing process, which sees the namesake fruits frozen in liquid nitrogen before being crushed into a powder and paired with vodka for a refreshing burst of flavor in every sip.
Chief Operating Officer at Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I commented on the arrival of -196 canned cocktails saying, "This launch marks a significant move for us into the ready to drink alcohol market and is part of a much bigger strategy for portfolio growth. We’re very proud of our Japanese heritage and honoured to be launching one of Suntory’s iconic brands in our business for the first time."
Japanese Heritage Canned Cocktails
-196 Canned Cocktails Come in Two Flavors with a 6% ABV
Trend Themes
1. Heritage-inspired Beverages - These drinks reflect a growing consumer interest in products that celebrate and incorporate cultural heritage and traditional manufacturing processes.
2. Ready-to-drink Innovation - The convenience and premiumization of ready-to-drink cocktails are capturing market share by offering high-quality, flavorful alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.
3. Liquid Nitrogen Processing - Utilizing liquid nitrogen in the manufacturing process delivers a unique flavor profile, setting these products apart in the competitive beverage landscape.
Industry Implications
1. Beverage Industry - The introduction of these canned cocktails showcases a fusion of traditional techniques and modern convenience, appealing to both heritage enthusiasts and busy consumers.
2. Alcoholic Drinks Market - This launch into the ready-to-drink segment highlights a disruptive shift towards easy-to-serve, quality alcoholic beverages that cater to evolving consumer preferences.
3. Food and Beverage Technology - Advanced processing methods like liquid nitrogen freezing offer new opportunities for innovation in flavor development and product differentiation within the industry.