2026 October

This month’s issue of Beverage Industry explores how brand licensing is evolving beyond one-off products, along with insights on sustainable packaging and the growing push for recycle-ready solutions across the beverage industry.

three 12-ounce cans of Popsicle Hard flavored malt beverages in Hard Cherry (red), Hard Orange (orange), and Hard Grape (purple)

Brand licensing moves well beyond one-off products

Collaborations create strong marketing opportunity

Lauren Sabetta

October 7, 2026

The beverage market has seen more non-alcohol brands embark on licensing partnerships with food and candy brands.
Meanwhile, brand licenses also are crossing lines with non-alcohol products venturing into alcohol.

a collaborative robot arm (cobot) palletizing cardboard boxes in an industrial setting

Robotics adapts to existing beverage warehouses

Improved ergonomics, efficiency accelerate usage of robotic technology

Jessica Jacobsen

September 28, 2026

Robotics technology is bringing automation support to end-of-line tasks in beverage warehouses.

a person wearing a safety vest and a headset in what appears to be a warehouse setting

Voice-picking helps create more efficient beverage warehouses

Technology primed for automation, human flexibility

Lauren Sabetta

September 29, 2026

As beverage operations continue to navigate SKU proliferation, experts highlight how voice-picking systems can help manage this complexity by providing precise, step-by-step instructions directly to the operator.

a line of colorful slim aluminum beverage cans arranged on a wooden surface with fresh herbs, coffee beans, and mushrooms

Beverage-makers turn to botanicals, adaptogens for functional benefits

Functional attributes remain key driver in botanical, adaptogen use in beverages

Chloe Alverson

September 22, 2026

Experts share that beverage makers are utilizing botanicals and adaptogens within functional formulations.

a person drinking a purple beverage from a shaker bottle outdoors near trees

Performance beverages offering more benefits for consumers

Jessica Jacobsen

September 23, 2026

As consumers take greater control of their health and well-being, performance beverages that were once designed to fuel athletic and fitness activities also are being incorporated into broader wellness goals.

a couple shopping together in a grocery or health food store, with the man examining a carton of juice

Sustainable measures prompt beverage-makers’ interest in cartons, pouches

Packaging formats expand into more beverage applications

Lauren Sabetta

September 24, 2026

Beyond consumer demand, recycling and other sustainability measures are having an impact on beverage packaging and the materials being used, prompting interest in cartons, pouches.

a person wearing a cozy purple knit sweater vest layered over textured beige sleeves.

Convenience stores shift offerings based on consumer preference

Channel embraces beverages based on consumer trends

Chloe Alverson

September 21, 2026

The convenience channel remains popular among consumers thanks to its affordability and array of options.

Cann beverages appeal to sober curious, cannabis curious consumers

Beverage brand’s portfolio spans from varying THC levels

Chloe Alverson

September 18, 2026

Founded in 2019 as an “all-natural social tonic,” Cann sits at the intersection of sober curiosity and cannabis curiosity.

an assortment of oHy Hydrogen Sparkling Water cans in organic flavors like Blackberry, Lemon Lime, Cherry Lime, Strawberry Lemon, and Raspberry

Flavor innovations, wellness benefits offer bottled water manufacturers opportunities

Category remains top refreshment beverage by volume, data show

Jessica Jacobsen

September 25, 2026

Hydration needs are keeping consumers reaching for bottled water data shows.

Clean fleets support safer driving culture

Tips on regular vehicle cleaning protocols

Jeff Cioletti

September 30, 2026

Proper vehicle cleaning is about much more than aesthetics. There’s a direct causal link between vehicle cleanliness and safety.

a diverse group of happy friends gathered around a table indoors, sharing a meal and drinks

College students seek function, flavor from campus dining

Functional sips, botanical teas among top trends influencing menus

Lauren Sabetta

September 16, 2026

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

a pink Zaxby's cup with a handcrafted milkshake topped with whipped cream, colorful candy pieces, and a cherry

Beverages bring increasing value to restaurants

Foodservice operators introduce innovations, offer customizations

Jessica Jacobsen

September 17, 2026

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