Although the majority of them might still be in school, Generation Z already is wielding significant influence throughout the consumer marketplace.

Whether it’s social media platforms, mobile pay apps or an increasing acceptance of RFID chips in humans, technology has transformed everyday life for consumers.

It’s crazy to believe that 2016 is almost at a close. Although there still is much to accomplish before 2017 arrives, the latest trends already are popping up. In the beverage market, much attention usually is given to the finished products because, as many will tell you, taste is king. However, one must not overlook the upcoming trends in packaging attributes.

It’s October, which is by far the best sports month of the year in my opinion. Baseball playoffs are in full swing, the weekends are packed with collegiate and professional football games, and basketball and hockey start off their seasons. If you are like my husband and I, getting family and friends together for sporting events is a common weekend activity. Although we enjoy having people at our home or going to their homes, once in a while, it is nice to watch games at restaurant or sports bar among so many other sports fans.

Inspired by less-traditional sports, like skateboarding, snowboarding and the X-Games, as well as the personality of energy drink brands, Roly Nesi, founder and chief executive officer of Huntington, N.Y.-based ROAR Beverages, was dedicated to changing the game in sports drinks in order to speak to a new generation of consumers.

How manufacturing is adapting to changing demographics As baby boomers head toward retirement and Generation Y enters the workforce, attempting to boost the competitive edge of the U.S. economy on the global stage, the transition between the two groups of workers is bringing some challenges.

Wixon created a platform of “Tastes That Target Any Generation” ingredient applications.