Replacing Monster: A-B to Make and Distribute Starbucks RTD Tea

Dear Client:A-B has inked a preliminary deal with Starbucks to produce, bottle, and distribute through its wholesaler network a premium tea, Teavana Ready-to-Drink (RTD) tea in the U.S., with an expected launch date occurring in the first half of 2017. Teavana is the specialty premium loose leaf non-alc tea brand Starbucks purchased in 2012 and sells through its stores (but not currently at other retailers). A-B says premium RTD tea is the fastest-growing segment in the RTD tea category, which