Hard Solo is set for a name change after it was found to breach the industry's advertising code.
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The alcoholic version of soft drink Solo will instead be called Hard Rated and feature new packaging, after sparking controversy when it was launched in July 2023 by Asahi Beverages.
In response to complaints, the Alcohol Beverages Advertising Code Scheme (ABAC) ruled the name breached the code with "strong or evident appeal to minors".
Carlton & United Breweries (CUB), which is owned by Asahi, said on November 16 it was disappointed with the outcome but accepted the decision.
"We'd like to assure the many Australian adults who have loved Hard Solo that the taste won't change when the name changes to Hard Rated," a CUB spokesperson said.
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The transition to the new branding has already started with products featuring the Hard Solo can packaging to leave the CUB supply network by February 9, 2024.
Pubs and clubs will also have Hard Solo tap decals changed to Hard Rated by the same date.
Hard Solo contains 4.5 per cent alcohol per 375ml can and has black packaging instead of the soft drink's signature yellow.
