Sipping in Style: Flavour Trends in European Beverages

June 2023

Although promotions continue to be a pivotal factor in influencing beverage sales, the consistent rotation of flavours can yield a similar impact. The transformation of flavours is driven by the demands of modern consumers and can significantly shape, and at times define, other features of soft drinks. This report examines the current trends in soft drink flavours in Europe, providing an explanation for these patterns and highlighting successful examples of innovation in the European market.

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Key Findings

Flavour rotation drives sales in European drinks

In the dynamic European beverages industry, the pursuit of flavour innovation is a vital catalyst for sustained growth and brand prominence. In order to maintain competitiveness and effectively engage consumers, industry players must continuously experiment with flavours, exploring novel combinations. Flavour gains even greater significance as product life cycles continue to shorten, resonating particularly with the younger demographic.

Blending the new and exotic with established and traditional flavours

The European beverages market is currently witnessing a surge in interest, fuelled by a growing fascination with global and exotic flavour profiles. This includes the exploration of lesser-known fruits such as yuzu and dragon fruit, as well as the appreciation for bitter taste profiles and innovative coffee varieties. However, consumers in the region still highly value traditional and regional preferences, which are influenced by local cultures, agriculture and seasonal variations.

Mixology-inspired innovation across beverages

The latest trends in mixology, originating from the alcoholic drinks sector, are leading the way in introducing unconventional and exotic flavours across various beverage categories. These distinct and unique flavour combinations, inspired by cocktails, captivate a youthful and daring consumer base seeking novel and remarkable experiences.

Functional flavours and fortification

Flavours in European beverages go far beyond providing refreshment; they also serve as platforms for functional and wellness features. Consumers are eager to supplement the diet through natural micronutrients and functional botanicals. European consumers prioritise their health, with flavours playing a crucial role in meeting demand for healthier drink options.

Innovating with both flavour and colour for a social European consumer

To maintain a competitive edge, brands will be required to increase the pace of flavour innovation. New, vibrant colours and product presentation may be almost as important as taste, with consumers seeking visual beverage brands and cocktails to capture and share online.

Scope
Key takeaways
Constantly evolving flavour innovation remains key to long-term relevance and growth
Flavour is the first pillar of innovation, renovation and disruption within beverages
Demand for exotic but balanced styles of beverages across demographics in Europe
While interest in exotic flavours grows, regional preferences are still shaped by tradition
An exotic flavour blast in functional drinks and other niche categories
Functional and fortified flavour innovation can boost more than refreshment
Fruit flavour combinations to support European demand for micronutrients in the diet
European Millennial consumers seek new flavours across RTD coffee and alcohol
Mixology across both alcohol and soft drinks, with distinctive flavour creations
Innovating with both flavour and colour to reignite mature beverage categories
Flavour is linked to strong visual identity in drinks, vital for socially “shareable” innovation
Case study: #WhatTheFanta mystery flavour campaign drives consumer engagement
Fountain and countertop machines with AI can generate new insights on flavour trends
What’s next for flavours?

Soft Drinks

This is the aggregation of the following categories; Carbonates, Fruit/vegetable juice, Bottled water, Functional drinks, Concentrates, RTD tea, RTD coffee and Asian speciality drinks.

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