In another move to expand its footprint in the ready-to-drink (RTD) market, FX Matt Brewery has announced its acquisition of Ohza, a leading brand in RTD mimosas and sangrias. Ohza, founded in 2019, has quickly become a trailblazer in the RTD space, with its mimosas and sangrias gaining a solid foothold in retailers like Walmart, Whole Foods and BevMo! Once FX Matt Brewery acquires Ohza, it will mark yet another strategic move by the company to diversify its offerings beyond beer, as the brewery continues to build its presence in the RTD segment.
Ohza was one of the first brands to offer canned mimosas and expanded its line to include sparkling red and white sangrias. As the brand capitalized on the growing popularity of wine-based RTD cocktails, Ohza’s products were designed for both ease and convenience, appealing to consumers who enjoy these classic cocktails without the hassle of preparation. According to the press release:
According to Nielsen, mimosas are the most ordered cocktail on premise during the daytime, with sangria being the second most menu-featured cocktail in the US.
Under FX Matt’s ownership, Ohza is poised for even greater distribution. FX Matt has expressed plans to focus on Ohza’s core offerings — Classic Mimosa and Fizzy Red Sangria — while also exploring new packaging and flavor innovations in 2025. With FX Matt’s extensive distribution network, the brand is expected to see rapid growth.
A busy year for FX Matt
This acquisition of Ohza follows a string of bold moves by FX Matt over the past few years. Earlier in 2024, FX Matt acquired ‘Merican Mule, another successful RTD brand specializing in spirits-based Moscow Mules and other cocktails. The company also completed the integration of Flying Dog Brewery, Maryland’s largest craft brewer, which it purchased in 2023. Now FX Matt is well positioned as a major player in both the craft beer and RTD markets.
The addition of Ohza and ‘Merican Mule to FX Matt’s Right Coast Spirits division — a joint venture with Flying Dog and Harpoon Brewery — signals the company’s intent to dominate the RTD space. Right Coast Spirits already boasts a popular lineup, including Right Coast Vodka & Margarita Whips and Italian Ice drinks. With Ohza joining the portfolio, FX Matt’s RTD offerings now span both spirits-based and wine-based cocktails. The company is catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences.
A legacy of innovation
FX Matt Brewery, headquartered in Utica, New York, has a long history of innovation and quality. Known for its flagship Saranac beers, FX Matt is one of the oldest breweries in the United States. It’s been operating continuously since before Prohibition. Over the past few decades, the brewery has expanded into multiple beverage categories. Today it produces hard seltzers, craft sodas and RTD cocktails, alongside its craft beers.
In recent years, the company has made significant investments to fuel its growth. In 2021, FX Matt completed a $34.7 million brewhouse and tank farm expansion, positioning itself for future growth. These investments have enabled the company to diversify its portfolio, making acquisitions like Ohza possible.
FX Matt Brewery acquires Ohza, so what’s next?
With FX Matt’s backing, Ohza’s reach is expected to expand rapidly. The company is looking to strengthen its presence in national retail chains and increase its offerings in new markets. FX Matt’s expertise in distribution, coupled with Ohza’s innovative product lineup, promises exciting growth for both brands.
The future also holds the potential for product innovations. Ohza is expected to explore new packaging options and introduce new flavors in 2025. For now, the company will focus on scaling its core products. This will ensure that more consumers can enjoy its ready-to-drink mimosas and sangrias across the country.
The bigger picture
This acquisition is part of a broader trend in the craft beverage industry. Established brands are diversifying into the rapidly growing RTD market. As more consumers gravitate towards convenient, on-the-go cocktail solutions, brands like Ohza and ‘Merican Mule actively position themselves to meet this demand. With the RTD market showing no signs of slowing down, FX Matt Brewery is seizing the opportunity to establish itself as a leader in this space. By leveraging its rich history and innovative spirit, the brewery is ensuring its place at the forefront of the craft beverage industry for years to come.
Stay tuned for more updates on FX Matt’s growing portfolio and the future of Ohza in the competitive RTD market.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.