In 2024, consumers can look forward to a year of diverse and enriching beverage choices, with a strong focus on well-being, the environment, and bold new flavours.
It’s essential for catering operators to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that their menus reflect the latest trends and cater to evolving customer tastes.
We share our top four beverage trends for 2024:
Functional health drinks
Self-care is taking centre stage this year, and consumers of all ages are seeking beverages that focus on health and well-being.
Functional beverages, which can include ingredients such as herbs, electrolytes, vitamins, minerals and probiotics, are growing in popularity as they promise tangible benefits from increased energy to improved gut health.
Meet these demands by offering innovative drinks such as:
- Fermented drinks like kefir and kombucha are popular options for consumers prioritising gut health.
- Lower-caffeine coffee is ideal for those concerned about the impact of caffeine on their sleep, and turmeric lattes for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits
- CBD-infused beverages offer health benefits due to their anti-inflammatory properties
No and low-alcohol beverages
The popularity of no and low-alcohol drinks continues to soar with the pursuit of healthier lifestyles. This shift towards moderation is evident across all age groups, with 5.2 million fewer UK adults drinking weekly in 2023 compared to 2021, according to KAM Insights.
Hospitality operators should consider expanding their range of zero-alcohol beverages and mocktails to meet this demand. Brands like Peroni, with their 0.0% offering, exemplify the growing market for alcohol-free alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or quality.
Offering exciting mocktails can help attract customers looking to drink in moderation. From hazelnut espresso martini mocktail creations to ‘Virgin Marys’ – the options are endless!
Plant-based drinks
Consumers are increasingly opting for plant-based offerings and dairy-free alternatives driven by health, ethical, and environmental concerns. You can attract this growing market by offering exciting plant-based drinks.
Here are a few to consider:
- Nut milk such as almond, oat, or cashew milk, and trendy options like hemp or flaxseed “mylks” can be added to coffee, tea, or smoothies.
- Herbal & floral teas elevate teatime with unique blends featuring locally sourced herbs, flowers, and fruits.
- Seasonal plant-based mocktails featuring fresh juices, herbs, spices, and sparkling water. Consider incorporating popular dessert flavours, like elderflower or rhubarb.
- Functional drinks that include fruit juices and energy drinks with natural caffeine from yerba mate, green tea and ginseng.
Global flavours
Cultural exploration and culinary diversity drive the demand for global flavours in beverages. Embracing this trend allows operators to add depth and intrigue to their menus, whether it’s through smoky mezcal-infused cocktails or refreshing yuzu mocktails.
Additionally, the rising popularity of Asian spirits like Korean soju and Japanese shochu presents an opportunity for operators to add a unique twist to classic concoctions.
We’re here to help.
Are you looking to enhance your menu with innovative beverage solutions that will entice your customers? Speak to our experts at hello@pelicanprocurement.co.uk
Sources: Kam Insights, Dataessentials & Mintel
