Trend cluster
Category

Expansive
Pairing

Cocktail pairings that think outside the box entice the adventurous.

Cocktail-Paired ChocolatesMulti-Sensory Cocktail TastingsExperiential Matchmaking EventsExperimental Vodka FlavorsDonut Cocktail Tastings

Trend

What is the Expansive Pairing trend?

Expansive Pairing: Highlighting the continued interest in unconventional flavor combinations, consumers are opting to participate in avant-garde experiences that see cocktails paired with unexpected multi-sensory elements or dishes. This shift speaks to the expectation that going out for drinks is now a multifaceted event with one-of-a-kind experiences built-in.

Trend themes

Themes within the Expansive Pairing trend

Three behaviours holding the trend together
01

Multi-Sensory Experiences

The use of scents, sounds, and visuals are being integrated into cocktail tasting experiences, creating an immersive experience for consumers.

02

Creative Pairings

Brands are constantly experimenting with unique and unexpected food and drink pairings to appeal to consumers who are looking for novel experiences.

03

Innovative Flavors

Vodka brands are trying to reinvent flavored vodka by offering new, unique flavors that are more subtle and creative than typical fruity flavors.

Industry implications

What the Expansive Pairing trend means for industry

Where the trend changes the playbook
For

Food and Beverage

Innovative pairings and experiences are becoming increasingly popular in the food and beverage industry, offering new and exciting ways to enjoy food and drink.

For

Hospitality

Hotels and bars are using multi-sensory experiences and unique pairings to differentiate their offerings and provide guests with memorable experiences.

For

Dating and Social Events

Experiential matchmaking events are incorporating icebreaker challenges and unique activities to help singles connect and foster new relationships.

Workshop question

What one-of-a-kind experience can you offer to your customers in the interest of expanding on the conventional?

Trend signals

Trend signals for Expansive Pairing

Trend score 3.0 out of 10, from popularity 43%, activity 40%, freshness 8%.

Popularity43%
Activity40%
Freshness8%
Audience
50%Men
50%Women
  • Gen Alpha (not a primary audience)
  • Gen Z
  • Millennial
  • Gen X
  • Boomer
Market
North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific
South America

Evidence

Examples of the Expansive Pairing trend

6 featured examples from Jun 8, 2017 to Sep 19, 2018
Cocktail-Paired Chocolates
CategoryLifestyle

Cocktail-Paired Chocolates

The Pop-Up Kit Kat Bar Pairs Cocktails with New Chocolate Flavors

The confectionery industry can benefit from exploring new flavors and ingredients, particularly ones that are based on traditional alcohol beverages like sake and liquer.

Multi-Sensory Cocktail Tastings
CategoryMarketing

Multi-Sensory Cocktail Tastings

The Berkeley's 'Out of the Blue' Features Scent, Sound and Visuals

Incorporating multi-sensory elements into hotel experiences, such as cocktail tastings, to differentiate and attract discerning customers.

Experiential Matchmaking Events
CategoryLifestyle

Experiential Matchmaking Events

'The Big Summer Party' Connects Guests with Icebreaker Challenges

Event planning companies can capitalize on the trend of experiential matchmaking events to attract singles and create memorable social experiences.

Experimental Vodka Flavors
CategoryLifestyle

Experimental Vodka Flavors

U’Luvka's Ultra-Premium Polish Vodka Aims to Reinvent Flavored Vodka

The alcohol beverage industry can benefit from partnering with vodka brands to develop innovative flavor combinations and packaging designs.

Donut Cocktail Tastings
CategoryMarketing

Donut Cocktail Tastings

The Clough Club Pop-Up Pairs Cartems Donuts with Mixed Drinks

Restaurants and bars can capitalize on the trend of donut and cocktail pairings by offering unique dining experiences and creative menu options.

Russian Vodka-Paired Platters
CategoryLifestyle

Russian Vodka-Paired Platters

These Recipes Were Devised in Celebration of Russian Vodka Day

There is an opportunity for alcohol manufacturers to capitalize on the trend of creating unique and flavorful infused vodkas that cater to customers looking for new taste experien…