Drinks Trends We’re Falling Hard for in Foodservice this year
In 2026, drinks aren’t just something you sip — they’re something you feel. From mood-boosting blends to low-alcohol love stories, foodservice drink menus are getting more joyful, more intentional, and way more exciting. (and yes, our tagline SIP SIP HURRAY is more relevant than ever!).
Read on to see the top 5 drinks trends for 2026:
1. Low- & No-Alcohol, But Make It Fun
Mindful drinking is officially mainstream — and we’re here for it. Alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks are no longer the shy option at the bottom of the menu. They’re bold, beautiful, and full of flavour.
Think vibrant mocktails, alcohol-free spritzes, botanical sodas and grown-up beers that still bring the party. Same glassware, same premium vibes, zero compromise.
Brand to watch: Bero - Tom Holland’s low alcohol beer
2. Tea Gets Its Glow-Up
Tea is still having a moment, but we’re not talking PG tips. In 2026 it’s cold, sparkling, botanical and anything but boring. From matcha lattes and hojicha coolers to tea-based mocktails and tonics, tea is stepping into the spotlight as the ultimate feel-good drink: ritual-rich, flavour-forward and endlessly versatile. And it’s a trend that’s particularly important for Gen Z.
Among students, 47% pick iced tea as their top choice, 42% bubble tea and 27% matcha. “Thirty-nine per cent of 16- to 34-year-olds are drawn to teas inspired by sweet treats. Emerging trends are herbal, spiced and chai blends, alongside new combinations such as watermelon, lime, raspberry lemonade and elderflower.
Brand to watch: Bird and Blend matcha specialists
3. Functional Drinks That Actually Taste Good
This is the era of doing more with your drink. Consumers are reaching for beverages that support their mood, gut and energy — without losing the joy. Bottom line (pun intended): wellness, but make it delicious.
Expect to see:
- Prebiotic and fermented drinks
- Adaptogen-boosted blends
- Fibre-forward sodas and wellness tonics
Brand to Watch: Poppi – this American brand of prebiotic soda known for its “gut healthy” approach to the carbonated-beverage market was launched in 2018, and acquired last year by PepsiCo – proof, if needed, that this is where the soda market is heading. It’s starting to be distributed by Carlsberg Britvic early in 2026 in major UK retail chains, with some flavours already available via specialty importers. I like the look of Strawberry Lemon – keep it classic!
4. Get some colour into your cheeks
Layered drinks and smoothies with two or more distinct colours/textures are still trending and set to be an even bigger thing in 2026, as concepts that lean into experience, shareability, and sensory impact rather than just refreshment.
These multi-tone smoothies, teas with floating jellies or foams, and drinks with contrasting syrups/toppings play into the camera-first culture of younger consumers. Operators are creating drinks that look great in photos/videos because visual wow drives visits and engagement.
This is good news for the smoothie category (yay!) – as it continues to grow and stay relevant; vibrant layered creations with toppings like fresh fruit, granola, edible flowers and contrasting purées refreshing menus around the UK.
Brand to Watch: Love Struck – use our pre-portioned, 100% fruit packs to create your own creations! Current favourites include:
Acai High base + layer of Pash n Shoot/Cherry Poppins/Melon Refresher for maximum impact, and delicious flavour profile.
5. Ready-to-Drink, Ready to Love
Convenience meets quality as premium RTDs continue to grow. From canned mocktails to pre-batched cocktails, portable formats are helping operators serve great drinks fast — without losing personality. Perfect for outdoor dining, events, and guests on the go.
Brand to Watch: Beatbox Party Punch – US favourite Beatbox launched in the UK this October in partnership with distributor Red Star Brands. For those with more, ahem, traditional palates, let me explain – this is a wine-based drink (6.1% ABV), non-carbonated, low-sugar, and gluten-free, packaged in a resealable tetra Pak carton in flavours such as Blue Razzberry, Juicy Mango, Orange Blast, and Fruit Punch. I’ll leave it up to you to try 😊
💖 Final Sip
The best drink menus are:
- Inclusive (something for everyone, always)
- Joy-led (flavour first, benefits second)
- Visual (because we drink with our eyes too)
- Story-driven (every ingredient has a reason)