Peak Season Prep, Issue 4

Quench Customers’ Thirst for What’s New

Beverages are having a moment. Consumers are still spending on drinks even as they pull back elsewhere, according to Restaurant Dive, particularly younger and lower-income diners. That means your beverage program has more influence over your bottom line than you might think.

The numbers back it up. According to Technomic, the top 200 Canadian foodservice chains saw sales of nonalcoholic beverages increase 34.8% YoY, and adult beverages went up 22.4% over that same time period.

Here are some of the trends driving innovation — and customer orders:

Functional wellness drinks: Ingredients such as protein, fiber and probiotics are attracting health-conscious guests looking for drinks that match their lifestyle.
Low-alcohol and nonalcoholic options: According to Forbes, millennials are among the top buyers of these beverages, which range from alcohol-free spirits to dealcoholized wine.
Unique, savory beverages: Snack-flavored sippers, veggie teas, fermented mocktails and cocktails incorporating everything from herbs to cheeses are adding a bold twist to drinks menus, according to Technomic and the James Beard Foundation.

Discover new products and ingredients, plus everything you need for your beverage program, at the 2026 Show. From tasty FABI awardees to innovations in The Beverage Room, you’ll quench your thirst for new ideas and new revenue streams.

Download the 2026 Foodservice Outlook: Food & Beverage Trends report for a deeper look at the trends driving menu and beverage innovation.