Bootleggers Cocktail, the innovative ready-to-drink (RTD) craft cocktail brand known for its premium, AR-enabled canned beverages, today announced a strategic partnership with FasterCapital through its LaunchUp accelerator program. This collaboration aims to accelerate Bootleggers’ expansion across Canada and the United States by leveraging FasterCapital’s global network, mentorship, and capital-raising infrastructure to capitalize on the rapidly growing RTD market opportunity.
Market Opportunity & Problem Statement
The global RTD cocktail market is projected to grow at a CAGR exceeding 12% through 2028, fueled by consumer demand for premium, convenient, and authentic beverage experiences. Despite this surge, many RTD offerings rely on artificial ingredients, carbonation, or lack meaningful consumer engagement. Bootleggers Cocktail addresses these gaps by delivering non-carbonated, vegan, gluten-free canned cocktails crafted with real spirits and fresh juices. In a competitive landscape dominated by mass-market brands, Bootleggers differentiates itself with immersive augmented reality (AR) technology and speakeasy-inspired branding, carving out a unique niche in the craft RTD segment.
Startup Solution & Differentiation
Bootleggers Cocktail offers “real craft cocktails in a can” combining premium ingredients with innovative AR and NFT-powered packaging. Their lineup features four signature flavors tequila and vodka bases infused with bold, fresh flavors each with 5.9% ABV in sleek 355 ml cans. Beyond exceptional taste, each can unlock interactive digital art and experiences via QR codes, creating an engaging, tech-savvy consumer journey. Early traction includes a strong retail presence in Vancouver and sold-out pop-up speakeasy events, validating consumer enthusiasm for their blend of craftsmanship, convenience, and digital innovation. This multi-sensory approach sets Bootleggers apart in an increasingly crowded RTD marketplace.
FasterCapital Partnership Value
Through the LaunchUp program, Bootleggers Cocktail gains access to FasterCapital’s global mentorship, strategic guidance, and capital-raising resources tailored for high-potential startups. FasterCapital’s rigorous selection criteria ensure alignment with startups demonstrating market fit and innovation. This partnership will accelerate Bootleggers’ product development, market entry, and scaling efforts, targeting key North American markets including British Columbia, Florida, and California. Additionally, the collaboration enhances Bootleggers’ investor visibility and operational capabilities, positioning the company for rapid growth and leadership in the tech-enabled RTD space.
Executive Quotes
Hesham Zreik, Founder and CEO of FasterCapital, stated:
“Bootleggers Cocktail exemplifies the future of beverage innovation by seamlessly integrating craft quality with immersive technology. Their unique AR-powered packaging and speakeasy-inspired brand resonates strongly with today’s consumers seeking both authenticity and experience. We are excited to support their journey through our LaunchUp program and help accelerate their expansion across North America.”
Kam Tabarraee, Co-founder and CEO of Bootleggers Cocktail, commented:
“Our partnership with FasterCapital is a pivotal milestone that validates our vision to redefine the RTD cocktail experience. With FasterCapital’s resources and expertise, we can scale our innovative AR-driven product and exclusive pop-up events to new markets, connecting with consumers who crave premium, convenient, and culturally rich beverages. Together, we are crafting not just cocktails, but a movement.”
Growth Trajectory & Future Plans
Bootleggers Cocktail plans to expand distribution beyond British Columbia into key U.S. markets such as Florida and California by late 2024. Near-term priorities include launching seasonal flavor collections, enhancing AR content, and scaling experiential marketing through pop-up speakeasy events. The company is actively raising $1 million USD to fuel production capacity, marketing, and technology development. Long-term, Bootleggers aims to become a category leader in premium, tech-enabled RTD cocktails, driving cultural engagement and innovation in beverage consumption.
