Who Owns High Noon: Unraveling the Ownership Structure of the Popular Beverage
Introduction
High Noon is a popular alcoholic beverage that has been gaining significant popularity in recent years. The canned cocktail brand has become a go-to drink for many consumers, with its unique blend of fruit juice and vodka. However, the ownership structure of the company behind the brand is a bit complicated. In this article, we will explore who owns High Noon and the various stakeholders involved in the ownership structure.
A Brief History of High Noon
High Noon was founded in 2018 by Chris Hunter, a former executive at Anheuser-Busch InBev. The company was started with a vision to create a ready-to-drink cocktail that would offer the perfect blend of fruit juice and vodka. Hunter came up with the idea while he was on a trip to Mexico and noticed that people were mixing vodka and juice in a glass. He believed that he could create a high-quality product that would appeal to a wide range of consumers.
High Noon launched its first product, a vodka and soda with grapefruit juice, in 2019. The product was an instant hit and quickly gained a following. In 2020, the company launched three more flavors: pineapple, black cherry, and watermelon. Today, High Noon is one of the fastest-growing canned cocktail brands in the United States.
Who Owns High Noon?
The ownership structure of High Noon is a bit complicated, with multiple stakeholders involved. The company is primarily owned by E. & J. Gallo Winery, a California-based wine and spirits company. However, there are other stakeholders involved in the ownership structure, including founder Chris Hunter and industry investors.
E. & J. Gallo Winery
E. & J. Gallo Winery is one of the largest wine and spirits companies in the world, with a portfolio of more than 100 brands. The company is based in California and was founded in 1933 by brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo. In 2020, E. & J. Gallo Winery acquired High Noon in a deal that was reported to be worth around $1.5 billion.
The acquisition of High Noon was a strategic move for E. & J. Gallo Winery, as it allowed the company to enter the growing canned cocktail market. High Noon’s focus on quality ingredients and simple flavors aligned with E. & J. Gallo Winery’s commitment to producing high-quality products.
As of the acquisition, E. & J. Gallo Winery owns a majority stake in High Noon. However, the exact percentage of ownership is not publicly disclosed.
Chris Hunter
Chris Hunter is the founder of High Noon and played a crucial role in the company’s early success. Hunter is a former executive at Anheuser-Busch InBev and has extensive experience in the beer and spirits industry. He came up with the idea for High Noon while on a trip to Mexico and was inspired by the way locals mixed vodka and juice.
Hunter launched High Noon in 2018 and quickly gained traction in the market. His experience and expertise in the industry were essential in building the brand and establishing its unique identity. However, following the acquisition by E. & J. Gallo Winery, Hunter’s role in the company is not clear. It is not publicly known how much of the company he still owns.
Industry Investors
In addition to E. & J. Gallo Winery and Chris Hunter, there are other stakeholders involved in the ownership structure of High Noon. These stakeholders are industry investors who have invested in the company to support its growth and expansion.
The exact number and identity of these investors are not publicly disclosed. However, industry experts suggest that the investors are likely to be experienced players in the wine and spirits industry who see the potential for High Noon to become a leading player in the canned cocktail market.
The Future of High Noon
The future of High Noon looks bright, with the brand’s popularity continuing to grow. The company’s acquisition by E. & J. Gallo Winery has given it access to the resources and expertise of one of the largest wine and spirits companies in the world. This has enabled High Noon to expand its product offerings and enter new markets.
High Noon has also continued to innovate, launching new flavors and packaging options. In 2021, the company launched a limited edition flavor, peach, which quickly became a fan favorite. High Noon has also introduced a new packaging option, a variety pack that includes four different flavors.
The canned cocktail market is a rapidly growing industry, with consumers increasingly looking for convenient and high-quality options. High Noon is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, with its focus on quality ingredients and simple flavors. The company’s success has already attracted the attention of other players in the industry, with many launching their own canned cocktail offerings to compete with High Noon.
Conclusion
High Noon has quickly become a leader in the canned cocktail market, thanks to its focus on high-quality ingredients and simple flavors. The company’s acquisition by E. & J. Gallo Winery has given it access to the resources and expertise it needs to continue to grow and expand its product offerings.
With the canned cocktail market continuing to grow, High Noon is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and become a household name. Its commitment to quality and innovation ensures that its products will remain popular with consumers for years to come.
FAQs
Is High Noon a privately held company?
Yes, High Noon is a privately held company. It was founded by Chris Hunter in 2018 and was acquired by E. & J. Gallo Winery in 2020.
Who owns High Noon?
High Noon is primarily owned by E. & J. Gallo Winery, with founder Chris Hunter and industry investors also holding stakes in the company.
What makes High Noon unique?
High Noon is known for its high-quality ingredients and simple flavors. The company uses real fruit juice and vodka to create its canned cocktails, and its products are free from artificial flavors and sweeteners.
Where can I buy High Noon?
High Noon is available at many liquor stores and retailers across the United States. The company’s website also has a store locator tool that can help you find High Noon products in your area.
What are some of High Noon’s most popular flavors?
High Noon’s most popular flavors include grapefruit, pineapple, black cherry, watermelon, and peach. The company also offers a variety pack that includes all four of its core flavors.
How many calories are in a High Noon cocktail?
High Noon cocktails contain around 100 calories per can, making them a lower calorie option compared to many other alcoholic beverages.
What is the alcohol content of a High Noon cocktail?
High Noon cocktails have an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.5%, which is similar to beer. This makes them a great option for those who want a refreshing and low-alcohol drink.
Is High Noon gluten-free?
Yes, all of High Noon’s products are gluten-free. The company uses a corn-based vodka in its cocktails, which is naturally gluten-free.
Can I drink High Noon if I’m vegan or vegetarian?
Yes, High Noon cocktails are vegan and vegetarian-friendly. The company’s products are free from animal products and byproducts.
How should I serve High Noon cocktails?
High Noon cocktails are best served chilled, either straight from the can or poured over ice. They can also be garnished with a slice of fruit to enhance the flavor.