✓ Molson Coors is focused on driving more occasions for many more consumers, supporting the company’s total-beverage ambitions
✓ To accomplish this, it is launching strategic flavor innovations with Topo Chico Hard, Simply Spiked and Redd’s Wicked
✓ The new products were created to meet 21+ consumer preferences, particularly in c-stores, and will be sampled at the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) trade show, October 14-17
Molson Coors has been clear in its ambitions to grow – both in beer and beyond. And to do that, it’s focusing on expanding its portfolio into more occasions where consumers are looking for a refreshing beverage.
“Flavor is key to the future of our business,” says vice president of marketing for above premium flavor, Elizabeth Hitch. “This space brings in new 21+ drinkers and opens the door to win back more drinking occasions.”
With recognizable brands already in its portfolio, including Topo Chico Hard and Simply Spiked, Molson Coors has a solid foundation to compete in the category – especially in convenience stores, where the company has focused on bringing channel-specific innovation designed to match shoppers’ buying behaviors.
Hitch acknowledged that flavor is also a dynamic and complex segment where innovation is key, but discipline and a focused point of view are critical to a brand’s success.
That’s why – in time for the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) – Molson Coors is unveiling strategic innovations, expected to hit shelves early next year, from Topo Chico Hard, Simply Spiked and Redd’s Wicked – including new pack types, formats and higher ABV options that round out its flavor portfolio and give 21+ consumers options that meet any occasion.
Topo Chico Hard: Glass bottles and more Margarita MAX
Topo Chico Hard has been making meaningful progress in 2025. In particular, strawberry guava bottles are up 12% in volume sales YTD versus the previous year for the week 9/28, according to Circana. Earlier this year, the brand also launched its Margarita FAB Variety Pack and Margarita MAX FAB, which became top innovations in C-Store and Grocery, respectively.
Yet, the brand isn’t settling, as it plans to build on that success with two new margarita-flavored innovations.
First is its new flavor for Topo Chico Hard Margarita MAX—strawberry hibiscus. This combines one of the brand’s most popular and growing flavors, with the bolder margarita flavor and higher ABV of Margarita MAX.
And with the positive performance on strawberry guava bottles, the brand is also releasing Topo Chico Hard Margarita FAB Signature Margarita in glass-bottle six packs early next year.
Simply Spiked: From Bold to Bolder
Hitch also noted that Molson Coors is leaning into what differentiates Simply Spiked, like the fact that it’s inspired by the No. 1 chilled juice brand in America. What’s more, two of Simply Spiked Bold’s SKUs, Cherry Limeade and Signature Lemonade, are the top two 24 oz higher-ABV innovations in c-store, according to Circana YTD for the week ending 9/28.
To get Simply Spiked Bold in front of more people, the brand plans to launch a variety 6-pack to expand its reach into food channels. The brand will also stand out on the shelf, as it leans into a streamlined visual identity that is more impactful and edgier.
The brand is also going one step further early next year with Simply Spiked Bolder, an even more flavorful take with a 12% ABV in smaller, 7.5-ounce cans.
“This is a new take on spiked lemonade for a new occasion,” says Hitch.
Redd’s Wicked: Biting into apple
With apple-flavored beer hotter than ever, Molson Coors is building on Redd’s Wicked Apple. The ale, with natural apple flavor, is already the No. 3 Higher-ABV Flavored Alt single in c-stores, according to Circana YTD for the week ending 9/28. But Hitch believes there’s still room to innovate.
Early next year, Molson Coors will launch Redd’s Wicked Apple Bites, which sports a 12% ABV in smaller, 7.5-ounce cans.
“Redd’s Wicked Apple Bites is a twist on the crisp apple taste you know and love from Redd’s Wicked, now with even more bite,” she says.
Hitch adds that Molson Coors is ready to tackle flavor in 2026.
“The flavor category may be complex, but our flavor brands are solid,” she says. “Plus, with these strategic innovations, we can continue to unlock new occasions.”