Sustainability, digital disruption, transparency and wellness are four macro trends that continue to dominate innovation in food and drink today. Consumers want to optimise personal health, both physically and mentally as well as act on environmental concerns in their increasingly busy lifestyles. We uncover how these macro trends will be influencing flavours and processes in the beverage category and look at some of the trends that are here to stay.
Digital Disrupters
Innovation in technology and digital dependency is making it even easier for consumers to order food and beverages, wherever they may be. The customer journey is being simplified as well as the delivery process from robots to drone deliveries. From food ordering apps to voice controlled devices, it has never been easier to order a takeaway at the touch of a button or by calling “Alexa.”
Technology is changing up consumer drinking and eating habits, providing opportunities at different time-points. From desk-drinking to sleep-enhancing, the time of day has become an important element in new product development marketing, to fit consumer needs and their increasingly busy lifestyles. This trend is only set to expand with more consumption scenarios uncovered and more technology available.
Quick service retail outlets are competing with own brand options, attracting consumers who seek convenience and better value for money, without compromising on taste. “Delivery kitchens” are cutting queues and high coffee-house prices attracting new consumers and improving the customer journey experience. Today consumers can order via a mobile app, where their beverage can be directly picked up via their chosen destination, “delivery-kitchen” or simply it can be delivered straight to their desk.
Alternative Selling Points
As lifestyles become more hectic, fewer consumers are entering the retail space. Instead retailers are taking retail to them. From pop up shops to permanent spaces, retailers are looking to simplify consumer shopping habits, integrating retail opportunities in smart homes to leisure facilities. E-commerce and M-commerce continue to grow too driven by consumer desire for convenience, transparency and personalisation.
The rise in private labels is also growing, competing with major brands in the premium space, where they sit as a suitable alternative to premium labels. This is very much apparent in health and wellness products where these products are more likely to display the location of manufacture, appealing to consumers who want transparency in the products they buy. As reported by Nielsen, a global average of 67% consumers believe private label products are usually extremely good value for money.
