Ready-to-Drink Alcoholic Beverages: -196 Vodka Seltzer Lemon, -196 Vodka Seltzer Grapefruit, -196 Vodka Seltzer Peach
Ready-to-Drink Cocktails: On The Rocks Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita, On The Rocks Old Fashioned, On The Rocks Cosmopolitan
Non-Alcoholic Beverages: ALL-FREE Non-Alcoholic Beer
Suntory RTD North America LLC, a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings, is a key player in the U.S. ready-to-drink (RTD) alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage segment. Based in Chicago, Illinois, the company is strategically positioned to serve the growing North American demand for premium, convenient beverages that align with modern lifestyles. As part of Suntory Global Spirits, Suntory RTD North America leverages the legacy, innovation, and global network of its Japanese parent company, one of the world’s most respected beverage groups.
Suntory Holdings, founded in 1899 in Osaka, Japan, has built a global presence across spirits, beer, and wellness categories. In 2023, Suntory Holdings created a specialized group company to focus solely on the fast-growing RTD category: Suntory RTD International. Suntory RTD North America LLC serves as the operational arm in the U.S., tasked with expanding the company’s RTD offerings and footprint across the continent.
The company’s business encompasses the development, marketing, and distribution of premium spirits-based RTDs, low-ABV cocktails, and alcohol-free beverages. Suntory RTD North America manages renowned brands such as:
These brands reflect a consumer-first approach, integrating traditional Japanese craftsmanship with American convenience culture.
These products use a proprietary freeze-crush infusion method inspired by Japanese RTD innovation and deliver a refreshing taste with 6% ABV.
OTR is recognized for using real spirits like Hornitos® Tequila and Knob Creek® Bourbon, targeting the premium RTD cocktail consumer.
ALL-FREE, Japan’s best-selling non-alcoholic beer, combines zero alcohol, zero calories, and zero sugar. Its U.S. launch has been pivotal in targeting health-conscious adult consumers.
Suntory RTD North America’s USP lies in its integration of authentic Japanese brewing and distilling techniques with American consumer trends. Products such as -196 stand out for their proprietary freeze-lemon process, which freezes whole fruit in liquid nitrogen and crushes it for maximum flavor. Meanwhile, OTR Cocktails capitalize on premium bar-style quality in portable formats.
Suntory Holdings reported ¥2.9 trillion (~$20 billion USD) in consolidated revenue in FY2023, with its RTD segment registering double-digit growth globally, particularly in the U.S., Japan, and Australia. The RTD category now contributes over 10% of Suntory’s total alcoholic beverage revenue, up from 6% in 2019.
In North America, Suntory’s -196 line has rapidly entered major retail chains such as Total Wine & More, BevMo!, and Spec’s, reflecting a swift go-to-market strategy. According to IWSR data, the U.S. RTD spirits category grew 26.8% YoY in 2023, with Suntory capturing a notable share through its innovative formats.
Through strategic distribution partnerships and leveraging Beam Suntory’s U.S. infrastructure, Suntory RTD North America ensures nationwide reach. While exact shipment values are not disclosed, platforms like ImportYeti list multiple container shipments of branded spirits and RTD products into the U.S. from Suntory plants in Japan and the Philippines.
All beverages comply with U.S. FDA and Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) standards. The ALL-FREE product is certified alcohol-free and complies with non-alcoholic beverage guidelines for sale in all 50 states.
Suntory RTD North America runs cross-platform campaigns across Instagram, YouTube, and regional promotions. The -196 brand launch included experiential sampling events in high-traffic U.S. cities, while OTR cocktails have been endorsed by bartenders and celebrities on social platforms.
Consumer reviews on retail platforms emphasize the flavor authenticity of OTR Cocktails and the refreshing quality of -196 Vodka Seltzers. ALL-FREE has been praised by sober-curious consumers and athletes as a guilt-free beverage alternative.
Suntory RTD North America continues to set new benchmarks in the premium RTD space by combining international innovation, sustainable practices, and deep market understanding.
