Former public school teacher turned alcohol industry mogul Merrilee Kick has made headlines after selling her popular ready-to-drink cocktail brand, BuzzBallz, to spirits conglomerate Sazerac in a deal estimated at $500 million. After 14 years of hard work and dedication, Kick has catapulted BuzzBallz into one of the most recognizable brands in the $2 billion RTD industry. With distribution across the United States and in 29 countries, BuzzBallz has seen annual revenue soar to around $500 million, making Kick one of America’s richest self-made women.
Kick’s journey to success was not without its challenges. As a former teacher living in Plano, Texas, she struggled to secure funding for her business idea. With no savings or financial backing, Kick maxed out credit cards and took out loans to launch BuzzBallz in 2010. Despite facing numerous rejections, Kick persevered and eventually found a manufacturer in China to produce her innovative plastic spherical containers. The brand quickly gained traction, appealing to convenience-seekers and young adults with its fun and colorful packaging.
The sale of BuzzBallz to Sazerac marks a significant milestone for Kick, who took on no outside funding and maintained full ownership of the brand. The all-cash deal has not only secured Kick’s financial future but has also positioned BuzzBallz for further growth and expansion. With a projected $5 billion sales in the RTD market by 2030, BuzzBallz is poised to capitalize on the growing demand for pre-mixed cocktails.
Despite her newfound wealth, Kick remains humble and focused on the future of the brand. Alongside her two sons, who now hold key positions in the company, Kick plans to continue leading BuzzBallz under Sazerac’s ownership. With a team of 1,000 employees and a strong foundation built on controlling the supply chain, BuzzBallz is well-positioned to achieve even greater success in the years to come. Kick’s dedication and determination serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to break into the competitive spirits industry.
As BuzzBallz embarks on its next chapter under Sazerac’s ownership, Kick and her family are committed to maintaining the brand’s growth and expanding its reach on a global scale. With fresh backing from one of the industry’s biggest players, BuzzBallz is set to accelerate its sales and distribution efforts, building on the success and momentum that Kick has worked tirelessly to achieve. With plans to double their sales in 2025 and push the brand even further, BuzzBallz is poised for continued success under Kick’s leadership and vision.
In the competitive world of spirits and ready-to-drink cocktails, Merrilee Kick’s incredible journey from teacher to industry powerhouse is a testament to the power of determination and entrepreneurial spirit. With a successful exit that has catapulted her into the ranks of America’s richest self-made women, Kick’s story serves as a reminder that with hard work, perseverance, and a bold vision, anything is possible. As BuzzBallz continues to thrive under new ownership, Kick’s legacy as a trailblazer in the industry is set to endure for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the world of alcohol beverages.
