Green Monke USA, an award-winning hemp-derived THC beverage brand, has officially launched in Illinois through a strategic distribution partnership with Romano Beverage. The expansion, combined with a significant update to its availability at Circle K, places Green Monke in more than 325 retail locations across the state at launch. The move underscores the growing mainstream acceptance of hemp-derived THC drinks as legitimate alcohol alternatives.
Chicago-based Romano Beverage, a fourth-generation family-owned distributor founded in 1913, will handle distribution. Romano has evolved from a traditional spirits wholesaler into a curator for high-growth brands in the wine, spirits, and THC categories. Central to the launch is Green Monke's inclusion in Romano's exclusive Cooler Access Program, which provides dedicated, branded refrigeration units in high-traffic areas to ensure the beverages are served at optimal temperature for immediate consumption.
Green Monke's Illinois debut includes 250 Circle K locations and 75 Romano Beverage Cooler Access Program stores. “Partnering with Romano Beverage is a perfect fit for our brand,” said Pat Gleeson, Co-Founder & CEO of Green Monke. “Their expertise in navigating the intersection of traditional spirits and the emerging THC category ensures our Happy Sodas are reaching consumers in the most professional and accessible retail environments.”
The Illinois rollout marks the latest development between Green Monke and Circle K, with potential for expansion to additional stores in more states. This positions the brand's Happy Sodas within one of the nation's most influential convenience retail networks, normalizing hemp-derived THC drinks for millions of daily consumers. “Mainstream retail is where categories are made, and our relationship with Circle K marks a defining moment for THC beverages. Launching across 250 Illinois stores isn't just a distribution milestone; it's proof that consumers are ready for a genuine alcohol alternative at scale,” added Gleeson.
Green Monke sells a diverse portfolio of award-winning hemp-derived THC and CBD beverages across the United States. The company prides itself on great taste and uplifting effects, using premium natural flavors paired with fast-acting nano-emulsion technology for precise potency. Its Happy Sodas line offers low-sugar and low-calorie options for consumers seeking an alcohol alternative. As part of its strategy to evolve the happy hour experience, Green Monke has partnered with Oak View Group (OVG), a global sports and entertainment company, to offer Happy Sodas at select OVG venues in the U.S. and UK. The company also dedicates 1% of all revenues to support local agencies addressing mental illness and social isolation.
This expansion into Illinois and the strengthened relationship with Circle K represent a significant step for the hemp-derived THC beverage industry. By securing placement in over 325 retail locations, including a major national convenience chain, Green Monke is demonstrating that THC beverages can achieve the scale and accessibility needed to compete with traditional alcoholic beverages. For consumers, this means greater availability of a legal, lower-calorie alternative to alcohol in everyday retail settings. For the industry, it signals that major retailers are increasingly willing to stock these products, potentially paving the way for broader acceptance and regulatory clarity.
