Hello Soju Sets Its Sights on Colorado and Texas for National Expansion

Hello Soju's Expansion into Two Growing Markets

Hello Soju, the premium soju brand that has been redefining this iconic spirit from its California base, is making a significant leap by launching its products in both Colorado and Texas. This move not only marks an exciting growth trajectory for the company but also taps into the rapidly expanding spirit-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails segment, which has proven to be one of the fastest-growing categories within the alcohol industry.

The brand's sparkling soju and flagship soju spirit are now available across four states. Initially popularized in California and Nevada, Hello Soju is now reaching a broader audience in Colorado and Texas. Key retailers, including BevMo!, select Target locations, and Total Wine & More, will be stocking these premium beverages, thus making them more accessible to consumers eager for innovative and healthier drinking options.

The State of the RTD Market

The RTD cocktail segment is on fire, with data showing a staggering 34.7% growth in volume year-over-year as of April 2026, according to industry reports. This growth far surpasses that of total spirits, which saw a slight decline during the same period. The shift away from sugary, malt-based seltzers toward more sophisticated spirit-based options is reshaping consumer preferences. For Hello Soju, this presents a unique opportunity to cater to a demographic looking for wholesome alternatives made with real fruit and lower sugar content.

Elisabeth Baron, CEO of Hello Soju, stated, "Texas and Colorado are two of the most exciting beverage markets in the country, and Hello Soju sits at the intersection of two of the fastest growing categories in alcohol beverage: soju and spirit-based RTDs. Both markets are epicenters for discovery, and we believe Hello Soju offers an accessible, fun, and better-for-you way to bring people together."

Coinciding with its roll-out, Hello Soju made a public appearance at the celebrated Denver Food & Wine Festival, further enhancing its promotional efforts in these new territories. With flavors that include Asian Pear, Lychee, Lemon Yuzu, Peach, and the limited-edition Green Grape, Hello Soju's RTDs are crafted to appeal to a wide range of palates, straying from traditional norms to engage a newer generation of drinkers.

A Unique Crafting Process

What sets Hello Soju apart in the competitive marketplace is its commitment to quality. Made from non-GMO California sticky rice and distilled using traditional Korean methods, their unique RTDs combine the spirit with real fruit juices and absolutely no added sugars. This innovative approach has garnered multiple accolades, including a Double Gold for the Flagship Soju Spirit at the 2026 CHILLED 100 Awards.

The company has deftly capitalized on the flourishing interest in soju. Notably, the U.S. market for soju has been on an upward trajectory, with a projected 16% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2024 to 2029. This surge is in stark contrast to a slight decline expected in overall U.S. spirits volumes. The flavored and RTD formats are surging, now accounting for over half of the U.S. soju market, highlighting a robust demand for new and healthier variations.

The Future of Hello Soju

With its sights firmly set on national expansion, Hello Soju aims to continue increasing its retail presence across the United States. In addition to its new markets, the brand has built notable partnerships, such as its collaboration with LAFC, positioning itself as a key player in the beverage landscape.

As the brand's footprint grows, consumers in most states will also have the option to order directly through the Hello Soju website, enhancing accessibility even further.

In summary, Hello Soju is not merely entering the Colorado and Texas markets; it is making a purposeful impact in the alcohol industry by aligning itself with evolving consumer tastes and preferences for quality, spirit-based products. With ongoing growth initiatives planned for 2027 and beyond, Hello Soju promises to offer a fresh and healthier drinking experience to beverage enthusiasts across the nation.

For more information about Hello Soju and its product offerings, please visit www.hellosoju.com and follow them on Instagram @hellosoju.