Consumers turn to iced coffee beverages to satisfy sweet cravings
Implications - The time-crunched consumer is becoming more accustomed to enjoying life's pleasures while on-the-go. Instead of sitting down for meals that include dessert, many consumers are opting for iced coffees with rich, indulgent flavors specifically made to mimic dessert. This best-of-both world's approach is informing the flavor progression of the beverage industry, especially iced coffee, which is boasting a growing flavor profile akin to that of hot coffee.
Workshop Question - What's a beloved product in your category? How could you integrate its best elements into your existing offering?
Trend Themes
1. Iced Coffee as Dessert Substitute - Consumers are opting for iced coffees with rich, indulgent flavors specifically made to mimic dessert, influencing new best-of-both worlds approach and flavor progression of the beverage industry.
2. Customized Coffee Drinks - Coffee chains are offering customized coffee beverages, allowing customers to create their own version of classic drinks and promoting innovation opportunities in the beverage industry.
3. Seasonal and Co-branded Flavored Coffee Drinks - Popularity in seasonal and co-branded flavored coffee drinks, which represent a fun and indulgent alternative to traditional hot coffee beverages, is driving innovation in the beverage industry.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry should focus on creating innovative ways to add indulgent flavors and texture to iced coffee.
2. Technology and AI - The technology and AI industry should explore developing personalized, on-demand ordering systems for customized coffee drinks.
3. Marketing and Advertising - The marketing and advertising industry could focus on creating more co-branded beverages and limited-edition menus to appeal to customers looking for seasonal and unique flavors in their coffee drinks.
