MAHINDRA BE 6E: ELECTRIFYING THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE

Suntory Global Spirits has unveiled its first non-carbonated ready-to-drink product, the -196 Green Tea Variety Pack, blending Japanese craftsmanship with real green tea and whole fruit flavours. The launch reflects shifting consumer preferences, with President of RTD Davin Nugent highlighting growing demand for spirit-based formats beyond hard seltzers.  

Suntory Global Spirits is once again pushing the boundaries of the ready-to-drink (RTD) category with the introduction of its -196 Green Tea Variety Pack, a summer launch that marks the brand’s first foray into non-carbonated formats. The pack features four distinct flavours—Lemon, Peach, Strawberry and Yuzu—each combining the delicate character of green tea with the vibrancy of whole fruit. It is a move that underscores Suntory’s commitment to innovation while staying true to its Japanese heritage of craftsmanship.  

The decision to expand into non-carbonated RTDs comes at a time when consumer tastes are evolving rapidly. While hard seltzers helped define the early wave of RTD growth, the category is now diversifying as drinkers seek more sophisticated options. By pairing green tea with fruit, Suntory is positioning -196 as a premium alternative that appeals to those looking for flavour complexity and authenticity.  

Davin Nugent, President of RTD at Suntory Global Spirits, recently spoke with Bloomberg about the trends shaping the sector. He noted that spirit-based RTDs are gaining traction as consumers increasingly favour products that deliver both convenience and quality. Formats beyond traditional seltzers are becoming central to this shift, with innovation in flavour and style driving engagement among younger legal-age drinkers.  

The -196 Green Tea Variety Pack is emblematic of this evolution. It not only broadens the brand’s portfolio but also reflects Suntory’s ability to anticipate and respond to changing preferences. By introducing a non-carbonated option, the company is tapping into demand for beverages that feel closer to traditional drinking occasions, while still offering the ease and portability that RTDs are known for.  

Industry observers see this as a strategic move that could strengthen Suntory’s position in the global RTD market. The blend of green tea and fruit resonates with health-conscious consumers who value natural ingredients, while the variety pack format encourages trial and exploration. For Suntory, it is another step in building -196 into a flagship brand that embodies both innovation and cultural authenticity.  

As the RTD category continues to mature, the launch of the Green Tea Variety Pack highlights how brands are redefining what ready-to-drink can mean. Suntory’s approach—balancing tradition with modern tastes—suggests that the future of RTDs lies not just in convenience, but in delivering experiences that feel crafted and distinctive.  w.