Brown-Forman Ends Partnership with Pabst Brewing Company, Bringing Jack Daniel’s RTDs In-House

Brown-Forman and Pabst Brewing Company have announced a mutual agreement to conclude their U.S. partnership for flavored malt beverages (FMBs), effective July 7, 2026. Moving forward, Brown-Forman will assume full responsibility for supply, sales, marketing, and distribution of the portfolio.

The partnership, launched in 2021, gave Pabst exclusive rights to produce and distribute brands including Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails, while also developing line extensions such as Jack Daniel’s Bolder, Jack Daniel’s Hard Tea, and el Jimador Spiked Bebidas.

According to Brown-Forman, bringing the brands in-house allows the company to centralize its ready-to-drink (RTD) strategy amid rising consumer demand. Leadership indicated the move will provide greater operational control and position the FMB portfolio for accelerated growth.

Pabst leadership noted the transition enables renewed focus on its core beer portfolio and innovation pipeline. Both companies confirmed they are coordinating a structured transition plan to ensure uninterrupted supply for distributors and retailers.

With RTDs and flavored malt beverages remaining a high-growth segment, Brown-Forman’s decision signals increased strategic emphasis on expanding its presence in the convenience-driven beverage alcohol category.

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