2023 BEVERAGE TRENDS TO WATCH (AND TRY!)

As summer approaches and temperatures continue to rise, it's time to start thinking about the beverages we'll be enjoying this season So, what are you waiting for? Let’s look at the trends that are shaping our drinking culture now.

#1 Bubble Tea

Gen Z's favorite customizable drink.

Bubble tea is a Taiwanese drink featuring tapioca or fruit jellies. It appeals to health-conscious individuals and younger generations with its 200+ different flavor combinations, making it a truly unique, tasty, and fun drink. This refreshing drink has become a favorite among Gen Z due to its customization options, including sugar level adjustments, milk substitutes, and special mix-ins to get exactly what your taste buds desire!

#2 CBD-Infused Drinks

Relax and unwind.

CBD-infused drinks are on their way to becoming mainstream in both the alcoholic and non-alcoholic markets with their anti-inflammatory properties. This trend started last year and could only be ordered on the cocktail menus of specialty restaurants. This fun drink helps support memory and mood regulation and is a tasty alternative to alcohol Need recommendations? Try Aqua Sativa's Strawberry Gin infused with CBD oils from TRIP and Vita Coca's CBD Infused Cola.

#3 Liquid Death

I can’t believe it’s not beer.

It’s just water! Liquid Death is a non-alcoholic beverage brand that is moving people toward healthier and more sustainable drinking options by entertaining them. Twitter influencers define this brand as one of the fastest-growing and appreciate its eco-friendly strategy to disrupt the non-alcoholic beverage market. You can find them at most popular stores such as Target, Whole Foods, 7-Eleven, online, and at concerts.

#4 Sustainable Packaging

It’s easier to find than ever before.

Boxed wine is one trend that has been gaining traction over the years. It’s easier to store, hygienic, and sustainable You might also see a trend that's already making waves among eco-conscious consumers today: biodegradable packaging. Ecofriendly materials like cornstarch or potato starch are processed into films or pellets that decompose after being exposed to sunlight. This process doesn’t leave any toxic residue, making it a favorable option for those making environmentally friendly choices.

#5 Influencer and Celebrity Drinks

The trend retailers can’t keep on shelves. We’ve seen some of Hollywood's A-list celebrities, like Snoop Dogg, release specialty wines and whiskeys, but now this sector is expanding to upand-coming social media influencers! According to GRIN, over 80% of consumers buy a product after seeing an influencer recommend it on social media, which makes them an incredibly powerful influencing force for purchasing decisions. For example, KSI and Logan Paul released Prime Hydration, a brightly colored energy drink filled with electrolytes and antioxidants Since its release last year, demand has skyrocketed in the UK, making customers wait outside of stores before they open to get a chance to purchase this viral sensation.

Strategic partnerships like these build hype for the beverage category by introducing new wines and champagnes to millennial drinkers drawn to celebrity lifestyles.

#6 Canned Cocktails

Great for the beach and on the go!

Nielsen Premium Panel data reported that the market for canned cocktails is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.4% from 2022 to 2030. This could be due to their convenience for on-the-go drinking, easy transport, high-quality ingredients, and sanitary packaging. Customers want to see more authentic flavors, sugar level variety, and low-calorie options

#7 Fermented Drinks

We have a gut feeling about this. Kombucha may be getting all the hype, but other fermented drinks like water kefir are catching up with their own range of benefits. The growing research on prioritizing gut health and microbiome diversity is heavily influencing customer health priorities in the drink category WebMD estimates that the fermented beverage industry will be worth $1,061.5 billion this year, a 5% CAGR from 2015.

#8 Premium Mocktails and Spiked Sodas

Finding a middle ground.

The rise of non-alcoholic beverages is growing fast as consumers continue to look for alternatives to beer From hard seltzers to hard kombucha to hard coffees, there are plenty of options for those who want something low or no alcohol-by-volume (ABV) drinks. These consumers are looking for a balance between functional and indulgent, high-quality and convenience Whether you want something low in sugar and alcohol or want to try something different from beer, there’s something for every drinker.

#9 Retro Cocktails

A throwback for the taste buds. You probably know what a cocktail is, but what about a retro cocktail? The term refers to drinks that were popular in the past think Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and Negronis. They've all made a comeback in recent years and are available at many bars across the country It's not surprising that people are looking for these classic drinks again: Google Trends saw a 60% rise in search interest for martinis!

No matter where they’re sold or what challenges they may face tomorrow, if you love trying new things (or just want something cool), these drinks will be worth checking out. It's a brave new world of beverages, and we ' re excited to see what comes next!

https://csnews com/c-store-retailers-hold-cautious-view-beverage-sales; https://www hotelonline com/press releases/release/drink-trends-in-2023-8-beverages-youve-got-to-try-this-year/; https://grin co/blog/best-food-influencers-and-drink-influencers/; https://www cnn com/2022/10/04/business/liquid-death-water-valuation/index html