Malibu launches 10% ABV canned cocktail range to expand RTD portfolio

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Malibu has launched Malibu Punch, a new range of ready-to-drink (RTD) canned cocktails, as the spirits brand looks to capitalise on growth in higher-alcohol, flavour-led beverages.

The range comprises three flavours – Watermelon Punch, Peach Tea Punch and Piña Colada Punch – each packaged in a 237ml can with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 10%. The products have a recommended retail price (RRP) of £3.50 per can and are available across UK grocery, convenience and wholesale channels from 8 October 2026.

The launch represents the latest investment by Malibu, owned by Pernod Ricard, in the RTD category, targeting adult consumers seeking convenient cocktail options for social occasions.

According to the company, UK RTDs grew 28% in value year on year, with higher-ABV products contributing to the category's growth. Malibu also holds two products among the UK's top 20 RTD cans, while its Piña Colada is one of the country's largest cocktail RTDs by value.

The new range combines familiar tropical profiles with fruit-led flavour combinations.

Watermelon Punch features sparkling watermelon flavour balanced with lemon and lime citrus notes. Peach Tea Punch combines peach with subtle black tea notes, while Piña Colada Punch brings together creamy coconut and caramelised pineapple flavours inspired by Malibu's established cocktail profile.

The products are designed for occasions including pre-drinks, house parties, festivals and spontaneous social gatherings, extending the brand's existing canned cocktail offering.

Liam Murphy, marketing director at Pernod Ricard UK, said: “Malibu is already a ready-to-drink super brand in the UK, having helped to establish the category more than a decade ago. The onus is on us to innovate and deliver against evolving consumer trends."

Murphy added: “Malibu Punch is a bold 10% ABV proposition created specifically for pre-drinks, parties and spontaneous get-togethers. With three distinctive flavours and significant investment behind the launch, we believe Malibu Punch can recruit a new generation of adult consumers, build on Malibu’s distinct credentials and bring further excitement and value to the fast-growing RTD category.”

The UK is the lead market for Malibu Punch, with a rollout to the US and Canada planned to follow.

The launch will be supported through Malibu's wider ‘Do Whatever Tastes Good’ campaign platform, with marketing activity intended to build awareness, encourage trial and attract new adult consumers.

As part of the campaign, the brand plans to stage a series of party appearances this autumn, with influencer duo Georgia Wood and Maddie Grace Jepson joining Malibu to surprise consumers at selected events. The activity will feature a branded van, product sampling and merchandise.

Malibu, which has been part of the Pernod Ricard Group since 2005, sells more than 3.9 million nine-litre cases annually across 155 markets worldwide. Its existing RTD cocktail range sells more than one million cases each year, according to the company.

With Malibu Punch, the brand aims to strengthen its position in the expanding RTD market by combining a higher-strength format with accessible, fruit-forward flavours and convenient packaging.