Coke venture launches coffee drinks in cans

The Coca-Cola Co., Atlanta, and Italy’s illycaffè S.p.A., the latter known for contributing to the definition of the espresso product category, have finalized a joint venture to launch ready-to-drink espresso-based beverages. In April, the joint venture, Ilko Coffee Intl., Milan, introduced the coffees under the illy brand in 10 European countries, including Austria, Croatia, Greece and the Ukraine. Flavors include a bold, espresso-based full-bodied, Italian chilled “caffe,” an intense cappuccino blended with milk and dark cacao and a smooth, latte macchiato, swirled with milk. The coffees come in stylish, premium cans in 150- and 200-mL sizes. The companies announced the agreement in October 2007. illycaffé produces a blend of espresso. illy is sold in 140-plus countries.