Dive Brief:
- Mark Anthony Group founder and CEO Anthony Von Mandl is stepping down as head of the White Claw maker after more than 50 years. He will remain with the company as chairman, according to an email sent to Mark Anthony partners.
- Vice Chairman Phil Rosse will take over as CEO on Jan. 1. Rosse, who has been with Mark Anthony for 18 years, will be the company’s second CEO since it was founded in 1972.
- Von Mandl highlighted challenges such as decreased alcohol consumption, presenting new opportunities for the business. Rosse will lead Mark Anthony as it aims to double its global business.
Dive Insight:
Although Mark Anthony started as a wine company, it now owns brands like White Claw, Cayman Jack, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, and Más+ by Messi. The ready-to-drink segment has been a bright spot in a challenging alcohol market, with IWSR predicting continued growth for these beverages.
Von Mandl sees the growth in RTDs as an opportunity to significantly expand the business. Consumers are seeking a “drinking experience” and are interested in pre-mixed options with healthier attributes or unique flavors.
Currently representing 1% of the global alcohol market, Mark Anthony aims to double its presence by expanding its brands into new markets.
Von Mandl praised Rosse’s track record at Mark Anthony and expressed optimism about the company’s future with this new leadership structure in place.