The Rum and Coke revolution: Coca-Cola and Bacardi just dropped a game-changer

The Coca-Cola Company and Bacardi Limited have announced plans to launch a ready-to-drink (RTD) pre-mixed BACARDÍ rum and Coca-Cola cocktail. This new BACARDÍ Mixed with Coca-Cola RTD product will hit select European markets and Mexico in 2025 before expanding globally.

The collaboration between The Coca-Cola Company and Bacardi Limited marks a strategic step in the fast-growing alcohol RTD market. The Coca-Cola Company’s Chairman and CEO James Quincey said, “We are continuing to develop our portfolio as a total beverage company, including in the growing alcohol ready-to-drink market. This new relationship with Bacardi Limited supports our strategic expansion, and we look forward to the introduction of BACARDÍ Mixed with Coca-Cola next year.”

Bacardi Limited’s CEO, Mahesh Madhavan, emphasised the significance of the collaboration: “We are excited to bring together two iconic brands so that consumers may enjoy one of the world’s most popular cocktails. Through this relationship, we will expand our reach and accessibility so that even more consumers of legal drinking age can enjoy this classic BACARDÍ rum and Coca-Cola cocktail.”

The Return of a Classic: BACARDÍ and Coca-Cola

This is not the first time BACARDÍ rum and Coca-Cola have come together. The historic partnership traces back to 1900 when the Cuba Libre cocktail, a mix of BACARDÍ rum, Coca-Cola, and lime, was created at Havana’s American Bar. The combination remains one of the most popular cocktails worldwide.

BACARDÍ Mixed with Coca-Cola RTD will feature the distinct logos of both brands and clear responsibility symbols, promoting responsible consumption. Packaging and marketing will adhere to the standards set by both The Coca-Cola Company and Bacardi Limited.

The alcohol beverage volume (ABV) of the RTD cocktail will generally be 5%, aligning with global benchmarks, but may vary depending on the market.

Expanding the RTD Market

The introduction of BACARDÍ Mixed with Coca-Cola positions both brands to capitalise on the growing demand for convenient, high-quality RTD cocktails. With their rich history and global presence, The Coca-Cola Company and Bacardi Limited are poised to make a significant impact in the evolving beverage landscape.