Budweiser rolls out Tropical flavours
MEXICAN beer brand Corona has entered the hard seltzer category, adding some tropical flavour to c-store chillers.
Budweiser Brewing Group UK & Ireland, the firm behind Corona, has announced that Corona Tropical will now be available to the convenience channel, after a successful launch for the hard seltzer in Tesco.
The 4.5% ABV Corona Tropical is available in three flavours: Guava & Lime, Raspberry & Lemon, and Grapefruit & Lemongrass.
Each 330ml can in the range contains 96 calories and 2.4g of sugar. Flavouring for each variant is added using fruit juice from concentrate.
All three flavours are available in single and 8x330ml formats in grocery and convenience channels. Budweiser Brewing Group has also launched a 330ml single can to the on trade.
The brewer has invested in a nationwide marketing campaign to support Corona Tropical’s wider rollout, including digital and out-of-home advertising activity.
The brewery’s decision to expand distribution of Corona Tropical comes at a time of impressive growth for the hard seltzer category.
According to Budweiser, sales of sparkling water drinks containing alcohol have been rising year on year. UK category sales are forecasted to be worth £17 million in value by the end of 2022, representing growth of 193%.
World beer brands such as Corona are also in the ascendency.
The Mexican beer brand has enjoyed volume sales growth of 38.7% since 2018.
Liz Hemus, marketing manager for Corona Tropical, said: “Corona is a brand born from the tropics; we encourage consumers around the world to disconnect from routine and reconnect with nature.
“We’re excited to offer a new Corona beverage to those who love the brand but are looking for options outside of beer.
“Alcoholic sparkling waters and RTDs have been gaining huge momentum in recent years. That’s why we’ve launched Corona Tropical – offering an alcoholic sparkling water made with real fruit juice.
“It’s been a big year of innovation for the brand following the launch of Corona Cero in March, and we’re excited to expand our super-premium portfolio beyond beer to cater to even more consumer needs.
“Corona is renowned for its refreshing taste and quality – placing it in the perfect position to grow this category with a super-premium proposition.”
