Convenience stores are now selling more THC beverages than any retail channel except liquor stores, reflecting rising consumer demand for low-dose cannabis drinks, according to NielsenIQ.
Jason Zelinski, vice president of North American Retail at Chicago-based NielsenIQ, shared the data March 25 at CSP’s Cannabis Forum in Lombard, Illinois.
Forty-two percent of THC beverages sold in c-stores contain 10 milligrams of THC, the fastest growing THC beverage dosage, according to data from the 52 weeks ending March 7.
Variations of THC drinks include soda, seltzers and mocktails, which make up 77% of THC beverage sales, with soda leading at 31%, followed by seltzers at 27% and mocktails at 19%. Twelve-ounce 4-packs remain the most popular packaging.
“Distribution is driving THC beverage sales,” Zelinski said. “Currently, these products have a 52% distribution potential across legal states.”
Functional beverages
Zelinkski also noted the growth of functional beverages, particularly gut-health-focused sodas. Brands Olipop and Poppi command 96% of the functional soda space, he said.
Although Poppi and Olipop dominate the functional soda space, Kevita is a forecasted threat, Zelinski said.
“The Kevita Lemon Ginger can is predicted to become more relevant in the next 52 weeks, with growth of $900,000,” he said. “The popularity of digestive health claims is likely boosting the success of the brand.”
Functional beverages are forecasted to grow 8% by next year, nearly doubling the rate of the overall category, Zelinski said citing NielsenIQ data for the 52 weeks ending May 10, 2025.
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