Texas gives green light to RTDs in spirits

Texas gives green light for spirit-based RTDs to be sold in supermarkets

Texas, USA, introduced a bill to allow ready-to-drink (RTD) spirit-based products to be sold in supermarkets and convenience stores. Currently, the law only allows beer- and wine-based RTDs to be sold in supermarkets or convenience stores in the state. This is despite the fact that spirits-based RTDs have largely the same or lower ABV as their beer- and wine-based counterparts, said trade body Distilled Spirits Council of the US (Discus).

Discus has welcomed the introduction of HB 2200 by Rep. Justin Holland, calling the bill a “common sense reform that will modernize Texas laws to provide fair treatment for spirit-based RTD cocktails.” Holland noted that “in Texas, beer- and wine-based RTDs can be sold at more than 30,000 locations, including grocery and convenience stores,” adding that “meanwhile, spirits RTDs with equal or lesser amounts of alcohol can only be sold at 3,200 locations. My bill closes this loophole, providing economic opportunities for tens of thousands of Texas businesses.”

This measure will allow consumers greater access to spirits-based RTDs favoring the Texas distilled spirits industry in manufacturing, hospitality, tourism and agriculture, according to Discus. “As someone from Texas, I know how frustrating it can be to have to go from store to store just to buy my favorite canned cocktails when I can already easily buy similar beer or wine products in supermarkets and convenience stores,” said Chris Swonger, president and CEO of Discus.

“It’s time for Texas to do the right thing by small businesses and consumers and equalize access to RTDs for spirits. Consumers are clear: they want greater access to these incredibly popular beverages. Lawmakers should listen to their constituents and update the laws accordingly,” he added. Recently, California also introduced a bill allowing spirit-based RTD products to be sold under the same license used for beer and wine.