Beverage innovation is essential for meeting evolving consumer preferences, driving category growth, and staying competitive in a crowded market. As health, sustainability, and flavor trends shift, brands must adapt by introducing new ingredients, formats, and functional benefits.
Innovation allows companies to tap into emerging demands - like gut health, clean energy, or nostalgic flavors - while differentiating themselves through unique formulations or packaging. It also helps refresh brand identity and attract new audiences, especially younger consumers seeking authenticity and novelty.
Ultimately, beverage innovation fuels consumer excitement, retailer interest, and long-term brand relevance.
Our weekly round-up of beverage NPD is here to inform and inspire... scroll down for more.
Sparkling Ice Caffeine Cherry Cola
Talking Rain Beverage Company has launched Sparkling Ice Caffeine Cherry Cola: a zero-sugar, caffeinated sparkling water available exclusively at Casey’s for a limited time.
With 70mg of caffeine, vitamins, antioxidants, and nostalgic cherry cola flavor, the drink targets Gen Z and Millennial consumers.
Rewards Members can grab two Sparkling Ice drinks for $3 in September, or pair one with a slice of pizza for $4 starting in October.
Cherry Cola joins the Sparkling Ice Caffeine lineup of flavors which includes: Black Raspberry, Blue Raspberry, Cherry Vanilla, Citrus Twist, Strawberry Citrus, Tea and Lemonade, Tropical Punch, and Watermelon Lemonade.
Sproud: matcha and pea protein
Swedish brand Sproud has launched a new ready-to-drink Matcha beverage - made with pea protein, matcha, and spirulina - in the UK.
The low-sugar, high-protein drink is designed to be enjoyed hot or cold and features Sproud’s signature foamable texture. Available in 1L cartons via the brand’s UK website, the launch follows Sproud’s recent B Corp certification and expanded retail presence in Sainsbury’s.
CEO Sara Berger said, “Matcha is having a moment: consumers are increasingly looking for more variety in drinks.”
With UK matcha sales reaching £38.7 million in 2024 and expected to double by 2030, Sproud aims to meet growing demand for plant-based options.
Malfy gin: New design
Malfy has revealed a refreshed bottle design for its award-winning Malfy Originale dry gin, aiming to elevate its presence in the super-premium category.
Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, the new look features shimmering silver and turquoise accents, a frosted ring, and a bold sunburst graphic for enhanced shelf appeal.
Rolling out across Italy, the UK, Turkey, Australia, and UAE from September, the gin blends Italian lemons and Piedmont water for a crisp citrus profile.
NutraTea: Ashwagandha and Yerba Mate blends
British B-Corp tea brand NutraTea has expanded its functional tea range with two new herbal blends designed to support mental clarity, stress relief, and overall wellbeing.
The launch responds to rising consumer demand for natural adaptogens like Ashwagandha, Yerba Mate, and Gotu Kola: ingredients gaining traction across social media and wellness circles.
NutraTea Moringa Leaf & Ashwagandha is a calming blend that promotes stress reduction, cognitive support, and immune health. Known as “Indian ginseng,” Ashwagandha has surged in popularity for its adaptogenic properties.
NutraTea Yerba Mate & Gotu Kola offers a clean caffeine boost without the jitters. Inspired by South American traditions, Yerba Mate is increasingly favored by Gen Z and biohackers for its focus-enhancing effects. Paired with Gotu Kola, a botanical used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, the blend supports mental clarity and sustained energy.
“The functional tea trend is gaining momentum,” said co-founder Anish Patel. “Now is the time to lean in and listen to what customers are researching and reaching for.”
Available via NutraTea’s website, TikTok shop, Amazon, and independent retailers, each blend retails at £5.99 for 20 biodegradable, plastic-free tea bags.
Wildwonder Blackberry Violet
Fast-growing US prebiotic and probiotic sparkling drink brand Wildwonder has unveiled a limited edition Blackberry Violet flavor: blending organic blackberry puree, violet flowers, juniper berries, and lime for a crisp, floral sparkling drink.
Inspired by the Aviation cocktail, the botanical beverage is infused with 1 billion live probiotics and 5g of prebiotic fiber, supporting gut health.
Sold exclusively online, the vegan, gluten-free, and USDA Organic drink contains just 40 calories per can.
The launch follows Wildwonder’s 300% sales growth and second consecutive appearance on the Inc 5000 Fast Growing Company List.
