Anheuser-Busch InBev’s Labatt Breweries has expanded its ready-to-drink (RTD) offerings portfolio with the acquisition of Goodridge & Williams (G&W), a British Columbia (BC)-based company.

Based in Delta, BC, Goodridge & Williams is engaged in the production of spirits and canned cocktail products.

Its portfolio includes Nutrl vodka and vodka soda drinks, as well as several other spirits and mixed drinks.

According to a recent annual report of the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO), spirits-based RTD was one of the most prominent selling products in 2019. Its spirits made sales worth C$2.5bn ($1.8bn), leading to a share of 39% of total sales.

The Canadian firm expanded its offering portfolio in 2015 to meet growing consumer demand with the addition of two RTD brands including Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Palm Bay and some ciders.

Through the acquisition of G&W, it has strengthened its place in the alcoholic RTD beverage segment.

With the launch of Nutrl vodka soda, G&W was one of the first few Canadian companies to introduce a low-calorie beverage that is free from sugar and other preservatives and has small quantities of ingredients.

Upon acquisition completion, Labatt intends to support the growth of G&W by increasing the distribution footprint through its distribution channels.

In September 2017, Labatt Breweries unveiled its plans to invest C$460m ($372m) over the next three years to meet the growing demand for craft beer and cider.