Articles by Lauren Sabetta

Mintel’s “2026 Global Food & Drink Predictions” report highlights how empathetic brands can help consumers who are feeling like they are only surviving, rather than thriving.

Ease, transparency and personalization are consumer priorities impacting omnichannel shopping, and eCommerce is delivering on all three. 

As consumers’ definition of better-for-you evolves, beverage-makers broaden their use of functional ingredients to meet fortifications trends that support physical and mental well-being.

As wellness trends continue to be at the forefront of beverage innovation, experts highlight how brands are leveraging tea’s broad spectrum of functional properties. 

A recent Innova Market Insights report discusses how U.S. consumers perceive hot and iced coffee as two distinct products, requiring brands that incorporate both into their portfolios to approach messaging unambiguously. 

No matter the challenge, Harlen Wheatley, master distiller at Buffalo Trace, highlights how the Distillery’s uncompromised dedication to whiskey-making has shaped the American spirits industry.

When it comes to nuts, seed and plant milks, experts note that although the market has slowed, brands within this space are evolving, influenced by consumer demand for broader functional benefits.

When it comes to empowering women within beverage operations, women leaders in the industry highlight the opportunities that help recruit, retain, and further engage this demographic.

With the Gen Z legal drinking age (LDA) demographic growing, a recent Insight from IWSR identified community, flexibility, and discovery as major themes that help connect these consumers with beverage alcohol. 

With lines continuing to blur across the performance beverage space, experts highlight how incorporating functional ingredients into daily-use formats, like ready-to-drink energy or hydration beverages, can give consumers benefits that extend well past the workout window.