Buffalo Trace’s parent company, Sazerac, has announced its acquisition of Au Vodka, a popular canned cocktail brand based in the U.K. The purchase price has not been disclosed, but the deal aims to expand Sazerac’s ready-to-drink (RTD) portfolio, particularly in a market that is becoming increasingly significant for the spirits company.

Founded in 2015 by friends Charlie Morgan and Jackson Quinn, Au Vodka has become a leading brand in the U.K. for canned vodka cocktails. The brand gained additional recognition when YouTuber Jake Paul publicly showed his support by getting a tattoo of its logo. After launching in the U.S. market in 2022, Au Vodka achieved immediate sales success, moving 50,000 bottles in just its first week. Currently, the brand is available for online purchase in 35 states and on store shelves in eight.

Sazerac noted that the U.K. is an essential market for its growth strategies, and with Au Vodka’s established presence, the brand is positioned for further expansion in the U.S. The acquisition follows Sazerac’s recent streak of investments in the RTD segment, which has proven to be a bright spot in an otherwise fluctuating alcohol market. Earlier this year, Sazerac also acquired brands such as Dirty Shirley and took a stake in Sipmargs.

As Sazerac continues to innovate and grow its RTD offerings, the brand Au Vodka provides a valuable opportunity to enhance its market presence and connect with a broader consumer base.

For more information on Au Vodka, visit their official site or read the BBC’s coverage on their expansion efforts. Sazerac has also recently launched three new canned cocktails to bolster its RTD portfolio.