#United States #Miami #Casalú #Sparkling Rum #RTD

Casalú Secures Seed Funding for Expansion

In a monumental step for the beverage industry, Casalú—a Miami-based startup—recently announced the close of its seed funding round aimed at expanding its unique line of ready-to-drink (RTD) sparkling rum, specifically designed for Latino consumers. This move marks a significant point in the company’s journey as it seeks to establish a modern brand that truly resonates with the community.

Co-CEO Gabriel González expressed his enthusiasm about this pivotal moment, stating, "This latest round marks a pivotal moment for Casalú. In our first chapter, we set out to prove one thing: that a modern, culturally rooted brand could resonate with Latino consumers, especially those moving away from beer." This dedication to authenticity and cultural relevance sets Casalú apart in a crowded and often generic beverage market.

The recent funding has been positively received, with prominent figures in the industry taking notice of the brand's potential. Tom Baker, the Founder and CEO of Mr. Black (which was acquired by Diageo), commented on the significance of Casalú saying, “So many new drinks I see feel cynical. Copycats that add nothing to drinking culture. What Gabriel, Ricardo, and the team at Casalú have built is the opposite. It's more than a tasty RTD. Casalú is a cultural movement.” This endorsement highlights how Casalú's offerings are not just drinks; they represent a vibrant cultural identity.

Since its inception, Casalú has focused on producing beverages that reflect the tastes and heritage of the Latino community. Their products are now available at key retailers in Florida, including Total Wine, The Fresh Market, Winn-Dixie, Fresco Mas, and Milam's. With a retail price of $18.99, the brand offers two distinct flavors:

• - Traditional 'Limón': A nod to the classic Cuban cocktail; the cuba libre.
• - Maracuyá: Bursting with tropical flavors that transport consumers to sun-kissed shores.

With a slew of RTD options available at stores, González challenges the industry, remarking, “Simply put, go to your nearest Walmart and check out the RTD shelf. There are 50 brands. Yet, how many of those were built by a Latino team to represent their culture authentically? The answer you'll find is zero. That's where we come in.” This statement underscores a gap in the market that Casalú is keen to fill.

In an era where Latino voices are gaining more prominence in various industries, Casalú is positioning itself as a frontrunner in the beverage sector. By creating a product that not only tastes good but also speaks to the cultural heritage of its consumers, Casalú is not just selling drinks—it's fostering a community.

For those interested in joining this cultural movement, Casalú encourages consumers to follow their journey on social media platforms like Instagram: @drinkcasalu. As the brand grows and evolves, it remains rooted in its mission: to create beverages that resonate with the vibrant Latino culture.

With the recent closure of their seed round, Casalú is poised for significant growth and is dedicated to more than just sales; they are about building a legacy and a brand that Latino consumers can proudly call their own. The future looks bright for this innovative brand, as they continue to expand their presence in the RTD market.