From online success to in-store retail roll out - goon bags that took the lockdown
market by storm
Manly-based ready-to-drink cocktail company, SOPHisticated cocktail co. launched late last year selling 1.5L and 750ml stand up pouches of premium Margaritas, Cosmopolitans and Espresso Martinis. The concept, which began online, has taken the market by storm and is now stocked in independent liquor stores across NSW.
Partnering with Australian producers, SOPHisticated cocktail co uses Mr Black and St Ali coffee in its Sassy Essie (Espresso Martini), Tequila Tromba and East Coast limes in Tarti Margi (Margarita) and a local distilled Vodka in Cosmo Carrie (Cosmopolitan).
"In our first 4 weeks, we sold over 400 bags online, far exceeding expectation. In late December we started getting enquiries from independent stockists, boutique hotels and rental properties and are now stocked in several across NSW. Incredibly, about 30% of our online sales are from repeat customers," said Vicki Lyon, Founder, SOPHisticated cocktail co.
"With the restrictions of 2020, there was rapid demand for online sales nationwide and now we're seeing real growth in in-store retail too. The cocktails bags are perfect for easy at home entertaining, holidays, camping trips, boating days and picnics. They are fresh, convenient and iconic. Each 1.5 L bag serves hassle-free premium quality 13-15 drinks," she continued.
The Margarita is by far the biggest seller, with the popularity of premium tequila rising by almost 46% above any other spirit category, and with the fresh lime component and no added sugar, this seems to have been a winning formula that consumers have fallen in love with!
SOPHisticated cocktail co. was founded on the belief that cocktails should taste fantastic and should be shared with friends. The products use only locally grown fresh-pressed fruit , premium alcohol and locally roasted cold-brew coffee.
