Italian coffee company Lavazza Group and Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) have announced an expansion of their partnership to increase sales and distribution opportunities across North America.

The collaboration is set to broaden the availability of Lavazza K-Cup pods and introduce Kicking Horse Coffee, a Canadian brand, to the K-Cup pod format.

Under the expanded agreement, KDP will continue as the exclusive sourcing partner and manufacturer of Lavazza's premium K-Cup pods.

KDP will take on enhanced sales and distribution responsibilities in both retail and e-commerce channels across the US and Canadian markets.

Keurig Dr Pepper US Coffee president Patrick Minogue said: “Lavazza has been a valued partner since 2014 and we are pleased to continue our collaboration as the brand becomes a member of our licensed brand family.

“Having renowned, premium coffee brands Lavazza and now Kicking Horse Coffee as part of the K-Cup pod family underscores our ability to drive growth while providing consumers premium coffee brands available to enjoy at home.”

The partnership also heralds the future availability of Kicking Horse Coffee in the K-Cup pod format.

Lavazza North America president Hossam Ashraf said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone for Lavazza and Kicking Horse, as it opens new avenues to reach a wider audience of coffee enthusiasts. It represents an exceptional opportunity to fortify our collaboration with KDP.

“At Lavazza Group, we take pride in our commitment to passion, integrity, and expertise, all of which contribute to delivering superior, high-quality coffee. We believe that KDP is the right partner to bring this exceptional coffee experience to more consumers across North America.”

In December 2023, Lavazza unveiled its revamped flagship store in central London, UK.

Located opposite the iconic Liberty’s department store on Great Marlborough Street, the new outlet was inspired by Lavazza’s first store in the Italian city of Milan.