BuzzBallz and Sazerac announced an agreement for Sazerac to acquire the RTD company. According to the companies, the acquisition will allow BuzzBallz to reach more consumers domestically and internationally.

In a press release, Sazerac stated that “BuzzBallz complements Sazerac's robust spirits portfolio with a fun, unique, pre-mixed ready-to-drink portfolio.” The BuzzBallz company also includes other ready-to-drink beverages like BIGGIES, Uptown Cocktails, Sip Sip Hooray and Texas Craft.

Sazerac owns well-known brands such as Fireball Cinnamon Whisky and Southern Comfort.

According to Good Beer Hunting: “Over the past decade, BuzzBallz’s founder and alcohol industry newcomer Merrilee Kick cracked a code that established companies have struggled to unlock: an alchemy of flavor, packaging, ABV, and fun that went far beyond mere novelty. Perhaps her smartest move was to launch Chillers, the most ubiquitous BuzzBallz product line that uses a wine base—rather than distilled spirits—which allows it to be sold in retailers where hard liquor is prohibited.”

"As a trailblazer in the ready-to-drink space, we have received many inquiries to acquire the company, however, Sazerac matched our innovative culture and spirit best,” Kick said. “They are a partner we can continue to grow with internationally, as well as expand our existing distribution footprint in the USA. We are excited about our future growth opportunities from the synergies we will create together."

"Kick and the team at BuzzBallz have created incredible brands and we are both honored and excited to partner together to take them to the next level," said Sazerac CEO and President Jake Wenz.

According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), RTD cocktails were among the top five fastest-growing spirits categories, with sales increasing 36% to $2.2 billion in 2022. For more on RTD cocktails, check out “Sip, Sip Hooray” in the October 2023 issue of NACS Magazine.