Gulp Element
LATEST TRENDS IN THE SOFT
DRINKS MARKET
By : DEBOMITRA DEY - Founder at The Food Tech Club
T
he soft drink industry
is dynamically
changing since its
inception. The industry is
continually moving based on
the needs of the consumers –
mostly dominated by mood,
seasons, and perception.
For instance, during
summers consumers prefer
carbonated beverages, for
enjoyment and relaxation.
The consumers prefer
a sparkling drink or
carbonated beverage to
blend in alcoholic beverages.
The surge of coconut water
and coconut sparkling water
has significantly increased
in the past six years. Zico
an American beverage
company was acquired by
Coca-Cola in 2013; they
offer coconut water in a
variety of flavours such as:
chocolate; jalapeno mango;
and watermelon raspberry.
changing continually with
the change in lifestyles of
consumers who prefer living
a healthier lifestyle option.
Today’s market provides a
dynamic space for growth
of carbonated drinks,
flavoured drinks, flavoured
water, and energy drinks
hence, providing options to
consumers based on their
choices.
Global nonalcoholic beverage market revenue,
by distribution channel, 2016 (%)
Supermarkets & general merchandisers
The soft drink market
has seen a shift in focus
from high sugar drinks to
alternatives marketed as
healthy drinks. The soft
drink beverage section is
Food Service & Drinking Places
Gas Stations & Convenience Stores
Vending Machine Operations
Others
Source: www.grandviewresearch.com
The huge soft drinks
companies have a global
presence, and they develop
products based on their
placement on a global scale.
New companies entering
the soft drink business
won’t harm these two giants
(PepsiCo and Coca-Cola).
Soft Drinks Companies
are Investing in
Innovation and
Sustainability
Soft drink companies invest
into innovation of flavour,
the addition of fruits, and on
sustainability. For example,
currently, companies have
come up with new products
such as: Greek yoghurt
smoothies; sparkling water;
carbonated water; vinegar-
based drinks; carbonated
tea and coffee beverages;
energy drinks; etc. The big
Drink Asia
22
March-April 2019