Add more flavours to your spirits category

Not only is there a rise in demand for high-end spirits, consumers are also seeking unique flavours within this category. It’s clear that the multi-sensory experience has become a priority, much like spritz drinks and the feeling of summer that the drink evokes.

According to the WSTA, flavoured rum sales have doubled since 2019, and flavoured gin represents approximately 40% of the total gin market and this is expected to continue.

 

How can you jump on this trend?

Take a look at your stock list, have you got any new flavours in there? If not, we would recommend that you take your most popular spirits, and add some new flavours. Whether it is a spiced rum, or an orange gin , you are sure to smash your guests’ expectations. Adding these to your signature cocktail serves will also help to introduce new customers to this trend.

Value doesn't mean cheap - Premium drinks are in

As the cost-of-living crisis continues, consumers are reconsidering their spending habits. From cutting down on TV streaming services to ordering less drinks in their local bar, but demanding the best quality. People are expecting to significantly change their spending patterns when it comes to non-essential items over the next 12 months.

CGA data reveals some consumers are increasingly focused on value. Value doesn’t necessarily mean cheaper, and only 13% will choose cheaper options when out. Consumers desire both value and quality, so quality should be demonstrated across different streams; brand offerings, messaging and serve strategy. 56% of consumers are likely to pay more for a better-quality drink and 55% can be influenced by bartender recommendations, even if they have already decided what to drink.

Premiumisation has become very popular across alcohol and alcohol-free options. IWSR Drinks Market Analysis reports there are number of key factors driving premiumisation:

• Guests are more concerned about their health
• Increase in desire for sustainable products and knowing their background
• Consumers are drinking less alcohol and actively seeking premium alternatives

The Low and No Craze

We all saw our guests ordering more alcohol-free options and this trend isn’t going anywhere! Why are more customers choosing low and no drinks? Consumers are increasingly conscious of both their health and the impact on the environment.

Research suggests that the trend is influenced by a desire to lead a more balanced, healthier lifestyle, as well as a healthier bank balance! So, people are drinking less per occasion and choosing lower alcohol drinks more frequently. More and more people are choosing to stop drinking altogether.

 

Low and No Alternatives

We’ve noticed lots of low and no alcohol drink alternatives and ready-to-drink options now available; CBD drinks and Hard Seltzers. According to CGA data, the number of low and no drinkers are increasing globally, with over 1/5 predicted to consume even more of these drinks than they did last year, so you can see why bars should be making space for low and no serves. If you’re not offering these drinks, you could be missing out on exceptional profit margins.

Adding Spritz to Your Menu

Originally enjoyed as an aperitif, the spritz has recently experienced a dramatic rise in popularity, initiated by one drink in particular: an orange bitter spritz. This trend has evolved into spritzes of all natures, from wine spritzers to gin spritzers – which is the beauty of this drink, it’s adaptability!

A MODERN MENU ESSENTIAL

So, what is it about the spritz that has resonated with consumers? The healthy mind-set plays a key role here, in particular amongst Gen Z guests. Those guests are seeking a ‘light’, low calorie option, that can be considered more ‘natural’ as opposed to drinks containing more artificial ingredients and luckily for the spritz, it fits into this requirement perfectly.

We’ve also noticed that consumers are drawn to the cultural aspect of spritz cocktails. It adds to the overall experience of the drink. In fact, CGA data reports that 78% of consumers would choose a spritz serve at least occasionally. The spritz is generally a longer drink, meaning that less alcohol is consumed over a greater period of time, adding to the narrative of guests ordering less, yet more premium drinks.