The cannabis beverage market has been buzzing for years with seltzers, infused teas, and mocktails. But a newer contender is beginning to attract attention: white label cannabis energy drinks. For a category long dominated by mainstream giants like Red Bull and Monster, the question is whether cannabis-infused energy drinks have a place on dispensary shelves — and if so, how much demand is really brewing.

The Rise of Cannabis Beverages

Cannabis beverages have steadily carved out a niche within the edibles category, appealing to consumers who want a smoke-free, precise, and socially acceptable way to consume THC or CBD. Analysts have tracked year-over-year growth, with beverages becoming one of the fastest-expanding cannabis product segments in North America. From microdosed seltzers to high-potency shots, brands are discovering that consumers crave variety — and convenience.

The momentum has led retailers and manufacturers to explore new subcategories. Energy drinks, with their already massive mainstream following, represent an intriguing crossover opportunity.

Why Energy Drinks?

Globally, the energy drink market is worth over $80 billion and continues to expand, particularly among younger demographics. These consumers — often millennials and Gen Z — are also the groups most open to cannabis consumption. Combining the functionality of caffeine, B vitamins, or adaptogens with THC or CBD presents a unique value proposition: an energizing product that also taps into wellness, relaxation, or focus, depending on the cannabinoid mix.

White label manufacturers see this as a chance for dispensary brands to offer something distinct from standard gummies or seltzers. By leveraging turnkey formulas, retailers can customize flavors, dosage, and branding, all without building infrastructure from scratch.

Demand Drivers in Cannabis Energy Drinks

While still in its early stages, several trends suggest potential demand for cannabis energy drinks:

• Consumer Curiosity: Cannabis drinkers are adventurous. They enjoy trying new formats, and energy drinks align with a lifestyle-driven identity.
• Functional Positioning: Many consumers already pair cannabis with activities like working out, socializing, or creative projects. Energy drinks fit seamlessly into those routines.
• Retail Differentiation: For dispensaries, an energy drink can be a standout product, separating them from competitors who stock more common categories like gummies or vapes.
• Tourism & Events: In markets like Las Vegas or California, cannabis energy drinks could thrive in experiential settings, such as lounges, concerts, or wellness festivals.

Hurdles to Adoption

Of course, the path isn’t without challenges. One hurdle is regulation. Most cannabis markets restrict combining THC with caffeine, limiting the ability to create true cannabis “energy” drinks. This means some products lean more toward “focus” or “wellness” beverages, using cannabinoids like CBG or THCV alongside natural stimulants like guarana or green tea extract.

Another factor is consumer education. Shoppers may wonder how a cannabis-infused energy drink will feel — will it be too stimulating? Too sedating? Brands will need to clearly label intended effects to build trust and loyalty.

Finally, price positioning matters. Energy drinks in the mainstream market are affordable impulse buys, while cannabis beverages often sit at a premium. White label producers must balance cost with value to ensure trial and repeat purchases.

The Role of White Label Manufacturing

White label services give dispensary owners and entrepreneurs the flexibility to test this category without major investment. They can partner with formulators who already handle compliance, production, and distribution. Customization options — from sugar-free formulas to exotic fruit flavors — make it easier for brands to carve out niches.

This model also supports scalability. If cannabis energy drinks prove popular, retailers can quickly expand SKUs or launch limited-edition lines tied to events, seasons, or collaborations with influencers.

Looking Ahead

Is there a demand for white label cannabis energy drinks? Early signals suggest that curiosity and opportunity exist, especially in lifestyle-focused markets. While regulations will shape how these products are formulated, the appeal of an energizing, cannabis-infused beverage fits with broader consumer trends toward functional drinks and wellness crossovers.

The brands that succeed will be those who educate consumers, lean into retail differentiation, and experiment with effects beyond the standard “high.” For dispensaries, adding a cannabis energy drink could be less about replacing Red Bull and more about creating an exclusive product that speaks directly to their audience.