The News
High Rise Beverage Co., a Charleston-based company, has reached the #2 position as a hemp THC beverage supplier in the U.S. by 2026. The company reported a +206% year-over-year sales growth in 2ity26 and has over 50 distributors across 17 states. High Rise THC Beverages have 5,500+ active buying accounts and are available at both chain and independent retailers, both on- and off-premise.
For spirits distributors, High Rise Beverage Co.’s expansion offers a case study in how hemp‑derived THC products can capture shelf space in a fragmented market.
Today I turn a headline about High Rise Beverage Co.’s significant growth into an operational lens for those who move spirits through the supply chain. The story is not merely a marketing win; it signals how a hemp‑derived THC brand can carve out space in a fragmented category while maintaining rigorous ingredient standards.
High Rise’s 206 % year‑over‑year sales increase—achieved in 2026—outpaces the broader U.S. THC beverage market’s projected compound annual growth rate of roughly 30–35 % [Grand View Research]. That six‑fold difference points to a focused distribution system that reaches more than 5,500 active buying accounts through 50 distributors across 17 states.
In a category where the top five brands hold under 15 % of market share [Market Research Future], efficient channel play delivers shelf presence without a national push.
Bar managers see two benefits. First, hemp‑derived Delta‑9 THC seltzers satisfy patrons looking for low‑proof alternatives that still offer a measurable psychoactive effect. Second, the brand’s real fruit purées and organic cane sugar meet the growing demand for clean‑label options.
Delta‑9 THC beverages must stay under the 0.3 % dry‑weight limit set by the 2018 Farm Bill and face banking restrictions in many states. Bars that already hold a licensed cannabis or hemp‑derived product license can add High Rise seltzers with relative ease, while those without such credentials should verify local regulations before menu integration.
Distributors will note the brand’s lean footprint: 50 partners serving 17 states and 5,500 active accounts. That structure shows high volume can be built through selective channel penetration instead of blanket coverage.
Regulatory uncertainty—especially in California and New York where state‑regulated cannabis beverages dominate—limits expansion for hemp‑derived products. Yet High Rise’s rapid uptake demonstrates that a well‑executed compliance strategy paired with a differentiated product line can overcome those hurdles.
Other brands seeking similar growth should evaluate the ingredient profiles and regulatory footprints that allowed High Rise to capture market share so swiftly.
Consumers drawn to hemp‑derived THC beverages will likely view High Rise as premium, thanks to real fruit purées and no artificial sweeteners. The brand’s #2 ranking in revenue among hemp‑derived THC brands signals strong demand, but availability remains uneven across states because of regulatory restrictions.
With 5,500 active accounts spread over 17 states and only 50 distributors, High Rise shows how concentrated channel penetration can drive significant growth in a fragmented market.
Original Press Release
Charleston-based wellness brand High Rise Beverage Co. has risen to the #2 hemp THC beverage supplier in the U.S. in 2026*. Led by product innovations, brand investments, and a strong distribution network, High Rise reports +206% year-over-year sales growth in 2026.
With more than 50 distributors across a 17-state footprint, High Rise has always prioritized responsible production, transparency, and a three-tier distribution structure for its hemp-derived THC beverages. High Rise THC Beverages reached 5,500+ active buying accounts in the latest 90-day period and continue to trend upward, reflecting steady expansion in productive retail placements.
“We’re strengthening our presence at both chain and independent retailers, including both on- and off-premise,” said Matt Skinner, founder of High Rise. “Our goal is to increase availability and get High Rise into the hands of folks who are looking for a fun, flavorful THC experience. Sampling is huge for us, because once people try it once on-premise, they always want more.”
Since its launch in 2022, all High Rise beverages are made with real fruit, organic cane sugar, and no artificial flavors. “While we continue to grow and plan for additional line extensions this year, we’re staying true to who we are as a wellness company. We use real fruit, organic sugar, and clean, simple ingredients,” said Skinner.
High Rise continues to innovate hemp beverages to meet the needs of both on- and off-premise retailers. In December 2025, the brand took THC beverages beyond seltzer with the launch of its near-spirit THC Infusions. The zesty libations are perfect for mixing into uplifting “highbations,” or THC mocktails, for a smooth, social experience. High Rise THC Infusions are now available in three flavors—Citrus, Orange, and Raspberry—all in sophisticated 750mL bottles.
High Rise’s core lineup of THC Seltzers, available in 12oz. cans in a variety of 10mg and 5mg THC dosages and flavors, including Raspberry, Blueberry, Blood Orange, and more, has maintained stable velocity, growing as distribution scales and demonstrating resilience despite broader category disruption tied to pending regulatory changes.
With a strong base in the Southeast, High Rise is continuing to scale through a focused, market-by-market approach, prioritizing sustainable velocity and long-term account performance. The shift in sales mix between on- and off-premise is a sign that on-premise sampling is working and driving incremental growth at chain and retail.
Cited by South Carolina legislators last month as the “gold standard” for ongoing legislation and regulation discussions, High Rise is committed to growing the THC seltzer segment responsibly, with strong partnerships in the three-tier distribution system. During a time when the future of THC beverages is uncertain, one thing is clear: consumers want High Rise’s THC beverages, which are made with real fruit and uplifting THC to enhance real moments.
High Rise recently earned Best Wellness Product, Best Non-Alcoholic Drink, and Best Locally Based Cannabis Product at the 2026 Best of Charleston Awards.
“There is a huge demand for well-crafted, flavorful drinks with thoughtful ingredients. Whatever changes are coming to the THC industry, we stand behind our mission to lead with wellness in every aspect, including quality, transparency, and unmatched flavor,” said Skinner.
High Rise Beverages’ feel-good, flavorful beverages offer the world a better way to sip. Learn more at highrisebev.com.
*Total U.S. MULO + Convenience – 52wk Ending 3/22/2026 (SPINS)
Sources consulted (web research):
- High Rise Seltzers Theyre In The Limelight For A Reason
- Wholesale
- High Rise Thc Beverages Expands Nationwide
Source: BevNET