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Last year, T. Hasegawa tapped Dark Sweet Cherry as its 2026 Flavor of the Year, meanwhile beverage brands have taken full advantage of the flavor trend with cherry-inspired flavor innovations.

Foodservice operators see value in diverse beverage portfolios with franchise brands introducing new creations and ways for consumers to customize their drinks.

This fall semester, functional meals and beverages are top of mind for college students, influencing campus dining, according to Chartwells Higher Education.

Spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) has become remarkably good at getting consumers to say “yes” the first time.

The popularity of fall seasonal beverages often is led by pumpkin, but beverage-makers are expanding beyond this seasonal fruit.

The Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI) recently presented findings from its first “Body of Science” study, highlighting several disparities in how women hydrate and fuel their bodies.

Although beverage alcohol is experiencing a growth slump, ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails remain the bright spot in the market giving spirits brands a wide range of opportunities to take advantage of this trend.

Consumers thirst for more information is seeing beverage labels take on a bigger role than branding. Associations and manufacturers are implementing digital tools to keep consumers in the know.

The beverage industry has had an interesting start to 2026. Many of the trends shaping the market today feel familiar. 

Circana unveils 2025 New Product Pacesetters as top innovations drive $6.2 billion in year-one sales.