Ready-to-drink brand Tequio Tequila Cocktails has secured a distribution deal with US-based Foley Family Wines & Spirits.
FFWS will become the importer, seller and distributor of Tequio RTDs for the US, Canada, Mexico, South America, the UK, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand and Asia.
Charlie Landis, senior director of spirits at FFWS, told Just Drinks that these countries are all new markets for Tequio.
Landis added: “As we continue to expand our global portfolio of spirits, Tequio is on trend with the growing popularity of RTDs and resonates with younger LDA [legal drinking age] consumers who are seeking low-calorie, additive-free beverages.
“Tequio complements our wine-based canned cocktails, Sabé which have a higher abv than Tequio, which also speaks to millennial and Gen Z consumers who are interested in exploring wine but offer a more relaxed and convenient way to enjoy wine and cocktails.”
Foley announced a "commercial partnership" with Sabé in May. The move marked its entry into the RTD category.
Tequio is produced using Tequila El Mexicano, a brand which FFWS began importing and selling last year.
Tequio’s ready-to-drink line includes Blanco Tequila Soda and Reposado Tequila Soda (both 5% ABV), as well as the Paloma (6.9% ABV), which is due to come to market later this year.
All SKUs are sold in 4x35cl can packs at a US RRP of $19.99.
The Tequila in the canned drinks is distilled in the Highlands of Arandas at Hacienda El Mexicano by the Bañuelos family, the founders of the Cazadores Tequila business which is now owned by Bacardi.
Landis confirmed to Just Drinks that Tequio was co-founded by Willy Bañuelos, Louis-Pascal Walsh, and Flick Mooradian, and is privately owned by the trio.
Commenting on the deal, Tequio co-founder Flick Mooradian said FFWS is the “perfect partner to share Tequio’s 100% agave tequila cocktails with consumers nationwide”.
Fellow co-founder Pascal Walsh added the “partnership that feels like a natural extension of our long-standing relationship with Tequila El Mexicano and a powerful step forward for Tequio”.
Tequio’s ready-to-drink line includes Blanco Tequila Soda and Reposado Tequila Soda (both 5% ABV), as well as the Paloma (6.9% ABV), which is due to come to market later this year.
All SKUs are sold in 4x35cl can packs at a US RRP of $19.99.
"The Foley team is looking forward to partnering with Louis and Flick and see strong opportunities with Tequio as it quickly outpaces major players in the category,” said Shawn Schiffer, president, Foley Family Wines & Spirits.
"With the support of Foley’s sales and marketing teams paired with our distribution network, we are confident we can unlock Tequio’s full potential.”
Looking ahead, Landis told Just Drinks FFWS will prioritise building Tequio’s presence in the US by working with key distributors and retail partners to drive growth.
FFWS’ portfolio of owned spirits brands includes Evil Bean Coffee Liqueur, Charles Goodnight Whiskey and Lighthouse Gin.
