THE FINLAYS'
HOT LIST

Discover the trends heating up in 2024
and beyond

THE FINLAYS' HOT LIST

Director of Strategy and Insights Siân Edwards shares the five hottest trends in the global beverage industry.

THE

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Director of Strategy and Insights Siân Edwards shares the five hottest trends in the global beverage industry.

HUMAN CONNECTION

In a world of contactless ordering, QR menus and app delivery, people are seeking moments of meaningful contact and humanity. Businesses are focusing on values-led branding which is distinctive and fun, merchandise and generating experiences to connect with consumers.

BUBBLE TEA

It’s been on our list for the past few years – but the bubble hasn’t burst yet! Bubble tea continues to drive major fun, excitement and innovation in the foodservice industry. In fact, it’s proving unavoidable for major players – with Starbucks having launched a new line of bubble tea drinks for Summer 2024.

HAPPY HYDRATION

If you haven't yet plunged into the world of #WaterTok you're in for a multi-colored treat. Creators are taking their Stanley obsession a step futher, sharing 'recipies' via TikTok, modifying water with additions such as sugar-free syrups, popping candy and powdered instant teas. 'Orange Mermaid Water' is one of our favorite examples.

A-LIST BEVERAGES

Seeing major opportunities for growth, celebrities are entering the industry with a wide range of healthy, functional and indulgent brands across soft and alcoholic beverages. One notable entrant: Influencer Emma Chamberlain's RTD coffee - reaching sales of $2.3m after launching in Q2 2023 (Neilsen. 2024)

HARD TEAS

Despite a challenging consumer spending environment in 2023, hard tea continued its high-growth trend, achieving +36% value YOY (Nielsen, 2024). Market leader Twisted Tea is being joined by brands from across the beverage industry including RTD giants such as Arizona and major breweries such as Molson, responding to consumer demand for innovative tea-based alcoholic drinks.

Siân Edwards

Director of Strategy & Insights
Sian.Edwards@Finlays.net

Which trend are you most excited for?

Human Connection
Bubble Tea
A List Beverages
Happy Hyrdation
Hard Teas