A new bill will allow retailers to sell canned cocktails with up to 12.5% alcohol content.

July 17, 2024

A new bill approved by the Pennsylvania state Senate will allow retailers to sell ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails. The bill (Senate Bill 688) still needs to be signed by the governor.

“Under the bill, the approximately 12,000 restaurants, bars, beer distributors, grocery stores and convenience stores that are already licensed to sell alcohol can get a special permit to sell the canned drinks. Under current law, only the state-owned wine and liquor stores are allowed to sell the canned drinks. The bill restricts the sale of the drinks to before 11 p.m. and to drinks that have a lower alcohol content than 12.5%,” reported local news station WHYY.

Alex Baloga, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association, said the bill “represents a significant step forward for our industry. It offers consumers greater convenience and choice while supporting local businesses. We eagerly await the governor's signature to bring this exciting change to our state. This bill not only meets the evolving preferences of our customers but also provides a boost to our economy by opening new market opportunities for retailers.”

RTD cocktails have seen significant growth in the convenience channel. According to NIQ data from earlier this year that tracked the last 52 weeks of growth, ready-to-drink cocktails grew by 63.5% as consumers seek single-serve beverages.

The PFMA cited a 2021 Public Opinion Strategies study that found 86% of both consumers and non-consumers of RTD beverages believe they should be sold alongside other options like beer and wine.