Both Waitrose and M&S have highlighted canned cocktails as an area of growth as we move into the summer months. 

In a report published yesterday, Waitrose said that the RTD category grew by 11% compared to the same time last year. 

Within this, canned sparkling wine sales rocketed by 70% and canned rosé wine jumped by 23%. 

Elsewhere, sales of whisky-based RTDs grew by 73%, while sales of vodka-based RTDs rose by 28%. 

Part of a wider trend of growth, the data from Waitrose comes days after research from the Wine and Spirit Trade Association revealed that the RTD category in the UK grew by 12% in volume and 17% in value over the last year. 

It also follows research from the IWSR, published yesterday, which confirmed RTDs were swiping sales from traditional spirits brands. 

On the growing popularity of canned drinks, Waitrose commented that perceived quality has significantly improved among consumers. 

Sarah Holland, RTD buyer at Waitrose, said: “We’re seeing a huge trend of customers picking up canned cocktails for that ultimate summer convenience. Whether it’s for a sunny picnic or a weekend festival, you can enjoy a top-tier drink without having to play bartender!” 

At the same time, Caroline Thompson-Hill, head of BWS at M&S, said that the supermarket had likewise seen a spike in RTD sales. 

At the London Wine Fair, during a panel discussion about future opportunities, Thompson-Hill said: “We’re really focusing on the smaller format. I think occasions are changing and the way that people experiment is different. That means either a half-sized bottle or our cocktail tins, which are sort of infamous.” 

“Of course, the traditional 75cl glass bottle of wine still has its place, but that’s not the be-all and end-all anymore. People want to drink lots of different things, and it’s important to give customers that choice.” 

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of M&S cocktail cans, Thompson-Hill continued that they are performing better now than ever, with a constantly expanding range. 

This month and last, the retailer introduced a series of new cans including a Tequila & Tonic, a Tequila Spritz with Grapefruit, The Marksologist Peach Bourbon Smash and an Alcohol-Free Lime Margarita. 

Waitrose has likewise launched a bevy of new releases for spring, including Spicy Pineapple Daiquiri, Peach Melba Spritz, Non-Alcoholic Mojito, Non-Alcoholic Spicy Margarita and Non-Alcoholic Paloma.