The future of drinks: Key trends and opportunities for brands
The beverage industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation, fuelled by shifting consumer preferences, cultural influences, and innovative technologies. As people seek more personalized, convenient, and enriching drink experiences, brands have a unique opportunity embrace drink trends 2025 by exploring bold flavours, creative formats, and sustainable practices that resonate with evolving lifestyles. Here’s an in-depth look at the drink trends shaping the future and the opportunities they present for forward-thinking drink brands.
Nostalgia reimagined: Retro flavours with a twist
Nostalgia offers comfort in times of uncertainty, and this sentiment is driving the resurgence of retro drink flavours reimagined for modern tastes. These beverages bring familiar, heartwarming vibes with playful, updated twists on classic favourites.
Throwback cocktails are leading the charge in the UK, with Prohibition-era classics like the French 75 and Sidecar making a comeback, alongside tiki icons like Pina Coladas and Strawberry Daiquiris. Timeless favourites like Espresso Martinis are also seeing renewed interest, while revamped versions of vintage cocktails—like the Grasshopper or Old-Fashioned—are gaining traction.
Sweet, nostalgic flavours are finding new life in indulgent drinks. Beverages inspired by desserts like black forest cake and banana pudding are appearing in milkshakes, coffee syrups, and dessert cocktails. Root beers and cream sodas are elevated with artisanal ingredients, blending retro charm with a premium edge.
Retro influences are shaping beer and cider too. Brands like Northern Monk are experimenting with nostalgic flavors, as seen in its Screwball Pale Ale featuring hints of raspberry ripple and bubblegum. The return of Radlers—a refreshing mix of beer and lemonade—suits the low-alcohol trend, with modern iterations offering alcohol-free options and a variety of fruit flavors.
Non-alcoholic categories are embracing the trend as well. Coffee shops are creating playful retro drinks using syrups inspired by banoffee pie, raspberry ripple, or childhood cereals. One U.S. café even tops its matcha latte with Froot Loops for a whimsical breakfast drink. Soft drinks and sodas are also in on the fun, with Coca Cola’s Oreo collaboration and Sparkling Ice’s Starburst-inspired flavors capturing attention.
Retro flavors like apricot, baked apple, banana, churro, and cotton candy are spotlighting old-school formats with modern twists, such as matcha milkshakes, blending nostalgia with contemporary innovation.
Wellness in every sip
With health and wellness at the forefront of consumer priorities, beverages are evolving to meet the growing demand for functional, better-for-you options. Once niche, recent health drink trends include beverages enriched with adaptogens, botanicals, and superfoods which are now a mainstream phenomenon.
Ingredients like turmeric, spirulina, and ashwagandha are increasingly popular for their physical and mental health benefits, appealing to wellness-focused consumers. Low- and no-alcohol alternatives, such as kava-infused mocktails and kombuchas with mood-enhancing properties, are redefining the beverage landscape. Positioned as part of holistic wellness rituals—whether as morning energy boosters or evening relaxation aids—these drinks provide a unique opportunity for brands to cater to health-conscious lifestyles.
As a growing number of consumer globally actively limit sugar intake, innovation in natural sweeteners is reshaping the market. Drinks with low calorie counts and natural sweeteners are becoming essential, especially for Gen Z and Millennials, who are leading the self-care movement.
The shift away from alcohol consumption is now a social norm, creating opportunities for mocktails and experimental non-alcoholic drinks in bars, restaurants, and e-commerce platforms. Sober consumers are increasingly adventurous with flavours, encouraging innovation in the low- and no-alcohol space.
By 2025-26, functional beverages will further evolve to address personalized health goals, offering benefits for skin health, “clean” energy, and more. The lines between soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages will continue to blur, reflecting a future where wellness and enjoyment go hand-in-hand.
Global fusion flavours: A culinary adventure in a glass
Bold flavours are converging in exotic combinations as consumers’ appetite for global tastes and adventurous experiences reshapes the beverage industry. The latest drink trends include limited-edition launches have become a powerful tool for driving impulse purchases, giving brands an opportunity to satisfy this curiosity. By blending diverse ingredients and techniques, the fusion of international culinary traditions is defining innovative drink trends, where unexpected pairings yield surprisingly delightful results.
Imagine an apricot mezcal cocktail infused with garam masala and sambal or a chai-spiced coffee enhanced with saffron. These bold creations cater to the growing demand for globalized flavours that push boundaries. Hybrid innovations like Sichuan pepper beers further illustrate how cross-cultural inspiration is redefining consumer preferences.
Collaborations with chefs, mixologists, and influencers enable brands to craft culturally authentic beverages that resonate with consumers. Incorporating regional superfruits like baobab or acerola adds a layer of exotic appeal while aligning with wellness-driven trends. Limited-edition and seasonal offerings that blend global and familiar flavors are poised to thrive well into 2025 and beyond.
This global flavour trend is also driving the rise of spicy beverages. Ingredients like Indian masala, Japanese wasabi, Korean kimchi, and Mexican tajin bring both heat and intrigue, pairing seamlessly with trending spirits such as tequila, mezcal, soju, and sake. Niche elements, such as Cambodian Kampot pepper or Mexican guajillo and arbol chilies, are transforming cocktails, coffees, and sodas. Unique combinations like Mango Habanero or Jalapeno Rose fuse fiery notes with familiar bases, creating bold and unexpected flavour experiences that captivate adventurous palates.
Indulgence without guilt
In an era of economic challenges and busy lifestyles, small indulgences that deliver maximum satisfaction are more popular than ever. Consumers are seeking beverages that offer rich, sensory experiences while feeling like an affordable luxury.
Decadent drinks like chocolate stouts, salted caramel liqueurs, and spiked milkshakes are at the forefront of this trend. Multi-sensory cocktails featuring smoke infusions, edible glitter, or dramatic presentations add a touch of spectacle to indulgence. RTD options, such as canned espresso martinis or creamy dessert liqueurs, offer convenience without sacrificing quality.
Brands can capitalize on this craving for indulgence by emphasizing premium ingredients and creating products that feel exclusive yet accessible. Experiential marketing, including pop-up tasting events can also elevate the perceived value of these offerings.
The rise of JOMO: Joy of missing out
The Joy of Missing Out, or JOMO, reflects a cultural shift toward cherishing moments at home, away from the noise of social events. Instead of going out, people are investing in creating premium experiences in their living rooms, and this is reshaping the beverage industry. Restaurant-quality drinks—like barista-style coffees, sophisticated mocktails, and ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails—are becoming essential components of the at-home indulgence movement.
Flavors such as caramelized fig lattes, elderflower gin spritz, and smoked vanilla sodas cater to this trend, blending creativity with luxury. Brands can meet this demand by offering expertly crafted cocktail kits, premium mixers, and RTD beverages with artisanal twists. Leveraging technology to enhance these products—through QR codes linking to mixology tutorials or curated playlists could make the experience even more immersive. As consumers prioritize convenience without compromising quality, this trend presents a fertile ground for beverage innovation.
Sustainability takes centre stage
Eco-conscious consumers are reshaping the beverage industry, demanding sustainability at every level—from ingredients to packaging. This shift prioritizes not only what’s in the drink but also how it’s produced and delivered. Brands that embrace sustainable practices are more likely to earn the trust and loyalty of environmentally aware consumers.
Innovative approaches like using upcycled ingredients, such as coffee cherry cascara or wonky fruit, are at the forefront of waste-reduction efforts. These creative solutions repurpose byproducts into flavourful, eco-friendly beverages. At the same time, packaging is undergoing a green revolution, with brands turning to compostable bottles, minimalist designs, and refillable containers to reduce environmental impact. Transparency in sourcing and production further appeals to consumers who care deeply about the origins and ethics of their purchases.
Sustainability isn’t just an ethical obligation—it’s a strategic advantage. By offering initiatives such as refill stations, products with extended shelf lives, and compelling narratives about eco-friendly practices, brands can set themselves apart while supporting a healthier planet. These efforts not only align with consumer values but also provide a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.
While consumers are increasingly confident in recycling claims, they are becoming more discerning, often questioning the authenticity of green marketing. Avoiding greenwashing is critical. Brands must demonstrate genuine commitment to sustainability, built on transparency and accountability.
Looking ahead
Drink trends 2025 sees the future of beverages being both vibrant and diverse, shaped by consumers’ growing desire for experiences that are personal, sustainable, and innovative. Whether it’s embracing the simplicity of JOMO, exploring global fusion flavours, or prioritizing sustainability, drink brands have countless opportunities to lead in this dynamic market.
By understanding these emerging trends and aligning with consumer values, brands can craft beverages that not only quench thirst but also create lasting emotional connections. As the industry evolves, those who embrace creativity, authenticity, and adaptability will undoubtedly be at the forefront of the next big wave in drinks.
At Simpsons Beverages, we are committed to leading the beverage industry through continuous innovation, positioning ourselves as trusted thought leaders in our field. Our expertise enables clients to gain a competitive edge by bringing their products to market with speed, efficiency, and precision. Contact us today to explore how our tailored solutions can support the success of your next project. We look forward to collaborating with you.
Image source: Trendhub The Food People 2024
