Keurig, illy Sign Multi-Year Agreement

Keurig Green Mountain and illycaffè on Wednesday announced a multi-year agreement to bring the illy brand and its illy blend coffee to K-Cup pods for the Keurig hot brewing system in the United States and Canada. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“With such a rich brand heritage and super-premium coffee, illy provides just the kind of experience Keurig fans love to discover and enjoy,” said Mark Wood, chief product officer, hot systems at Keurig. “Offering illy for K-Cup pods combines our passion for coffee and our deep commitment to deliver quality with the convenience and consistency expected from Keurig brewed beverages.”

The companies plan to launch a selection of illy coffees in K-Cup pods beginning with limited distribution in fall 2015, with plans to expand availability in 2016. The K-Cups will feature illy’s blend of nine Arabica beans from around the world.

“Over the past 82 years, the illy family has obsessively pursued its passion to offer the best coffee in the world and to be the world reference for coffee culture and excellence,” said Andrea Illy, chairman and CEO of illycaffè S.p.A. “We are pleased to extend the illy experience to Keurig users looking for a premium coffee that delivers extraordinary taste.”

All illy coffee K-Cup pods will be marked with the Keurig Brewed seal indicating the product has passed rigorous testing, assuring the quality, taste, and integrity consumers expect from the Keurig brand, Keurig officials said.