The question Does Bethenny Still Own Skinnygirl reflects ongoing interest in the brand she launched over a decade ago. Skinnygirl became a cultural phenomenon when Bethenny Frankel, a reality TV star and entrepreneur, positioned it as a simpler, lower-calorie cocktail option for health-conscious consumers. Understanding the current ownership structure requires looking at the major business moves since the brand’s early days.
Shift in Ownership and Corporate Structure
In 2017, Skinnygirl took a significant step when it sold a majority stake to Beam Suntory, a large global spirits company. This move provided capital and distribution muscle, but it also meant that corporate ownership extended beyond Bethenny’s direct control. The deal raised questions about how involved she would remain in day to day decisions and long term strategy.
Since that majority stake transaction, reports indicate that Bethenny has maintained a reduced ownership position rather than a full controlling stake. Industry analyses suggest she transitioned from running Skinnygirl as a fully owned venture to operating within a larger portfolio brand under Beam Suntory. This shift often means the brand gains resources for marketing and shelf space, while the founder’s day to day influence is necessarily limited.
Product Line Expansion and Brand Presence
To answer Does Bethenny Still Own Skinnygirl, it is important to observe product activity. The brand has expanded beyond its original flavored vodka line into ready to drink cocktails, wine, and other lower calorie beverage options. This expansion shows continued investment and relevance in the marketplace, even if the ownership structure has changed.
Retail shelf space and menu placements remain visible indicators of Skinnygirl’s ongoing presence. The brand’s recognizable packaging and marketing campaigns continue to appear in stores and bars, suggesting that the products are still being supported and promoted. This sustained visibility helps maintain consumer familiarity regardless of behind the scenes ownership transitions.
Bethenny Frankel’s Current Role and Public Statements
Public appearances and interviews occasionally offer clues about Bethenny’s relationship with the brand. While she is less involved in operational details, she has sometimes referenced Skinnygirl in discussions about her entrepreneurial history. These references keep the brand in the public conversation and connect its story to her personal brand evolution.
Conclusion on Ownership and Brand Trajectory
In summary, the answer to Does Bethenny Still Own Skinnygirl is nuanced, involving a majority stake sale to Beam Suntory and a reduced direct ownership role for Bethenny Frankel. The brand remains active with product innovation and retail presence, reflecting a transition from founder led venture to a corporate portfolio brand. Consumers continue to see Skinnygirl on shelves, supported by broader distribution and marketing resources. Ultimately, her historical influence is still acknowledged, even as the day to day control has shifted to a larger drinks company.
