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Brown-Forman Corporation and Pabst Brewing Company have announced a mutual agreement to conclude their US partnership related to flavoured malt beverages (FMB), with Brown-Forman assuming full operational control of the portfolio effective 7 July 2026.

The move marks a strategic shift for Brown-Forman as it looks to further capitalise on growth in the ready-to-drink (RTD) and flavoured malt beverage segments.

Under the new structure, Brown-Forman will manage supply, sales, marketing and distribution for its FMB brands across the United States.

The companies’ collaboration began in 2021, granting Pabst exclusive rights to produce, market, sell and distribute Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails, along with the ability to develop line extensions and new FMB products. During the partnership, the portfolio expanded to include Jack Daniel’s Bolder, Jack Daniel’s Hard Tea and el Jimador Spiked Bebidas.

“We have enjoyed working with the talented team at Pabst over the last few years to drive growth and innovation across our FMB portfolio,” said Robinson Brown, senior vice president and managing director, United States and Canada, Brown-Forman.

“Moving forward, bringing these brands in-house allows us to take greater control of our ready-to-drink strategy during a period of increased consumer demand. By centralising our efforts, we are better positioned to accelerate the portfolio’s momentum and maximise its future impact.”

The transition reflects broader competitive dynamics in the beverage alcohol sector, where spirits suppliers have increasingly sought greater control over RTD production and commercialisation to protect brand equity and capture margin.

For Brown-Forman, which is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, and operates in more than 170 countries, the move aligns its flavoured malt beverage business with its broader RTD ambitions.

The company’s premium spirits portfolio includes brands such as Jack Daniel’s, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, El Jimador, Herradura and Diplomático Rum, among others.

Following the July 2026 transition date, Brown-Forman will oversee the entire supply chain and commercial operations for the affected FMB brands, integrating them more closely into its US strategy.

“We appreciate Brown-Forman’s collaboration over the past five years as we expanded their FMB footprint,” said Greig DeBow, CEO at Pabst.

“This transition will allow us to reallocate resources toward execution and innovation within our core portfolio of iconic brands. We’re excited to continue delivering on the beverages we’re best known for while creating new drinks that delight consumers.”

Founded in 1844, Pabst is one of North America’s largest privately held beer and beverage companies. Its portfolio includes heritage brands such as Pabst Blue Ribbon, Pabst Light, Lone Star, Rainier, Old Style, Stag, Stroh’s and Old Milwaukee.

Both companies confirmed they are working on a comprehensive transition plan to ensure uninterrupted product availability for retailers, distributors and consumers through the end of the agreement.