Migrating flavour influences, alternative energy ingredients and reusable packaging are trends which could reignite interest for consumers in the non-alcoholic beverage sector, according to data analysts GlobalData.
The Asia Pacific (APAC) region is facing a number of changes in trends and opportunities impacting the production, marketing and sales of non-alcoholic beverages, such as energy drinks and sparkling waters.
The 2018 Q4 Consumer Survey by GlobalData revealed 60 per cent of 18-24-year-olds in APAC were willing to experiment, try new flavours and try different varieties of soft drinks, with Asian ingredients in particular growing in popularity.
“With Asia becoming ome to both rapidly developing countries as well as to a number of unique drinks and ingredients, brands tend to emphasize some combination of unique flavors and healthy ingredients to sell non-alcoholic beverages,” said GlobalData consumer insights analyst Shagun Sachdeva.
“For instance, Applelachia launched a sparkling apple cider drinks range in 2018, featuring the flavors of Ginger Turmeric Yuzu, and Raspberry & Native Lime, for consumers in Australia looking to experiment with new and unique tastes.”
Natural ingredients such as matcha, ginseng and guarana are also gaining interests as its energy qualities are “at the forefront of consumers’ product purchase decision-making, as they look to lead a healthy lifestyle.”
“In line with this trend of offering alternative energy ingredients in non-alcoholic beverages, manufacturers are creating a variety of healthier options with natural and exotic ingredients,” said Sachdeva.
GlobalData also found 52 per cent of APAC consumers would lean their product choices towards how ethical, environmentally-friendly or socially-responsible an item was, based on the increasing awareness on single-use plastics and brands turning to reusable packaging.
