There are several emerging trends that are expected to continue to grow in beverage quick serve and convenience stores, mainly due to increasing consumer demand for cleaner, healthier and more environmentally conscious beverage options.
Ready to drink teas and sparkling water
The last decade has seen declining sales of sugary beverages as more health conscious consumers go for other options. Meanwhile, the markets for ready to drink teas and sparkling water are proving viable and growing. For the last ten years, sales of ready to drink (RTD) teas and seltzer sales have been growing by over 20%.
CBD infused products
CBD, or cannabidiol, is not for hippies anymore. Many people use CBD oil topically for aches and joint pains or use it to reduce anxiety and other ailments as well. CBD oil is widely becoming legal in more U.S. states, as many approved products contain less than 0.3% THC under federal law. The cannabis boom is here to stay, as businesses grow by including CBD oil in food, beverages, topical skincare, and hair care.
Some could argue that cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabinoid found in cannabis that does not get you high, is beneficial for your brain health and general wellbeing, and some could argue it’s not beneficial. Either way, it’s happening in states where medical and/or recreational cannabis is legal, and establishments can legally serve infused drinks.
The sustainability in both products and larger company mission.
Environmentally conscious brands have a leg up on their competition. When customers are deciding on purchasing one product amongst other very similar products, they tend to choose the company that is better for the environment. This includes the sources of the product, the packaging materials, and smaller eco-footprint.
Other hot trends:
- Cold-brew coffee
- Gourmet lemonade
- Locally/house roasted coffee
Whatever direction you take your beverage operation in the coming year, one piece of equipment that has been proven to keep the beverage station tidy is the LidSaver, single lid dispenser. The LidSaver not only reduces the added labor of constantly organizing the lid dispenser, but prevents wasted lids.