Traditional festive offerings with a twist expected in winter beverage trends, says Kerry
Kerry's Spiced Orange Hot Chocolate is one of its new winter recipes. Image credit: Kerry
With 47%* of consumers seeking a twist on traditional festive offerings, Kerry, the taste and nutrition company, has launched a new range of beverage concepts designed to boost businesses for winter 2020.
Kerry’s range of recipes have been designed following an in-depth analysis of consumer trends with proprietary research showing that consumers are looking for beverages that fulfill the following criteria:
- Twist on traditional festive offerings
- Healthy balance
- Premium indulgence
With caramel, vanilla and hazelnut forming the leading festive beverage flavour profiles in the last three years, Kerry has created concepts that pair familiar tastes with ingredients that are on the rise.
Health is also an important consideration with two in three European consumers consciously trying to reduce their sugar intake (according to Mintel). The high sugar content of festive beverages has hit the headlines in recent years and Kerry’s selection of beverages takes this into account. Kerry’s DaVinci products are reportedly lower in sugar than other syrups on the market and its winter drinks menu also includes concepts using sugar-free syrups.
“Simplicity and versatility are the key drivers at the moment. Every concept we have created consists of three steps – making it easier and quicker to deliver these drinks and minimise waiting times for customers,” said Kerry barista, George Doran.
“Taking versatility into account, we have really zoned into our core range – caramel, vanilla and hazelnut – that are firm favourites with consumers. We kept these flavour profiles in mind when developing these concepts.
“However, with our research showing that customers are looking for elevated products, we have looked at the use of different spices and flavours. This includes cardamom and turmeric, which have associated health benefits that consumers are also demanding. Plus, we have provided tips on how operators can create premium products through the use of simple additions and toppings. Concepts can become ultra-premium through dessert inspired and richer taste profiles, with more complex flavour pairings,” Doran concluded.
“This winter is going to be all about driving customer traffic in-store and boosting menu margin. However, it’s very challenging for our customers to constantly renew their offering to attract more customers and grow their business. Our nine winter concepts, based on our taste trend research, can support you to bring to life the hottest seasonal beverages for your customers,” said Foodservice Beverage portfolio brand manager, Laure Confrey.
Kerry’s Winter 2020 recipes include a Spiced Rhubarb Hot Chocolate, Red Berry and Hibiscus Tea, and a Cold Fashioned. To access the full Drinks Menu, click here.