Once considered a pick-me-up drink livened by only cream or sugar, coffee has become a business driven by a plethora of origins, flavors and custom creations. Instead of plain coffee, 18- to 35-year-old consumers have embraced creamy coffee-based beverages, says Walter Crawley, director of business development and marketing for Kerry Ingredients & Flavours, Clark, N.J.

In the category, trends often start in coffee shops and foodservice locations, where the menu can be dominated by creamy, indulgent beverages. McDonald’s, Oak Brook, Ill., is planning a summer push to promote its frozen coffee-based Frappes line. The restaurant chain is hoping the Frappes, along with other offerings, will help McDonald’s become a beverage destination, reports say.