Suntory launches Spain’s beloved La Casera in UK RTD alcohol market
La Casera enters the UK market as demand for wine-based spritz drinks and RTD alcohol continues to rise.
UK – Suntory Beverage & Food Great Britain and Ireland (SBF GB&I) has unveiled the launch of La Casera, a new ready-to-drink alcohol (ARTD) brand in the UK, as part of its expansion strategy into the alcoholic beverage market.
The brand is a long-standing favourite in Spain, known for its ‘Tinto de Verano’—a refreshing combination of wine and soda.
La Casera, meaning ‘the home’, was first introduced in 1949 and has since been a staple in Spanish households.
The brand, acquired by Suntory in 2009, celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023 by reviving its iconic slogan “If there is no La Casera, we are leaving,” reinforcing its legacy as a cultural and celebratory symbol in Spain.
The launch marks a new milestone for SBF GB&I, whose portfolio includes leading soft drink brands such as Lucozade and Ribena.
According to Elise Seibold, chief operating officer at SBF GB&I, the move signifies the company’s intent to expand into categories beyond soft drinks by introducing La Casera to British consumers.
“We’re adding another well-loved heritage brand to our portfolio alongside Lucozade and Ribena, but this time with a Spanish twist,” Seibold stated. “La Casera is a symbol of community and celebration, and we can’t wait to see UK consumers ‘spritz like the Spanish’ this summer.”
La Casera is the number one ‘Tinto de Verano’ brand in Spain and played a significant role in the category’s growth in 2024, contributing 88% to its volume expansion.
In the on-premise channel, La Casera has been responsible for 9 out of 10 incremental litres sold, underlining its dominant presence in the Spanish market.
The global ready-to-drink alcohol market is among the fastest-growing segments, with an annual average growth rate of approximately 20% between 2020 and 2022. Projections indicate the market will surpass £39.2 billion (US$50 billion) by 2030.
SBF GB&I previously entered the alcohol category with the UK launch of the Japanese pre-mix brand minus 196, blending traditional Japanese spirits with modern flavour technologies.
Sales director Alpesh Mistry highlighted that La Casera brings diversity to the current RTD offerings, which are largely spirit-based.
The new product will be produced in Toledo, Spain, and launched in red and white wine varieties, offering British consumers a new experience in the RTD category.
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