Schweppes embraces sweet heat trend

Schweppes has announced the launch of its new Cherry Pepper Soda, a bold addition designed to help retailers and hospitality operators capitalise on the surging sweet heat flavour trend.

The new expression combines the deep, fruity notes of cherry with a balanced peppery kick, offering a sophisticated profile for the aperitivo moment. The launch follows a period of significant growth for the flavoured soda segment, as consumers increasingly seek complex, multi-layered profiles that work as both stand-alone soft drinks and premium mixers.

The sweet heat profile — blending sugary or fruity bases with spicy undertones — has moved from niche hot sauces into the mainstream beverage category. Schweppes is positioning the Cherry Pepper Soda as a versatile tool for bartenders and home mixologists alike, specifically recommended for pairing with white spirits such as gin and vodka, or as a contemporary twist in a Tequila-based serve.

The launch is being supported by a high-visibility marketing campaign under the Born Social platform, which encourages consumers to elevate their socializing occasions with premium choices.

Rob Yeomans, vice-president, commercial development at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB, said: “Flavour exploration continues to be a key driver of growth within sparkling drinks and mixers, and cherry is firmly leading the way. Schweppes Cherry Pepper Soda brings genuine newness to the fixture, helping retailers tap into demand for more sophisticated, premium flavour profiles.

“With adult mixers expected to deliver a £300m premiumisation opportunity over the next three years, Schweppes is well placed to play a key role in driving this growth.

“Its distinctive taste, strong visual appeal and versatile serve credentials mean the launch is designed to drive incremental value, recruit younger adult consumers and increase frequency across key socialising occasions.”

Hanna Lauri, senior brand manager at Schweppes, said: “Schweppes has always been at the forefront of innovation, and with Schweppes Cherry Pepper Soda, we’re truly disrupting the adult mixer category.

“This new flavour taps into emerging taste trends for 2026, with black pepper adding an unexpected combination. Whether paired with spirits, or enjoyed neat, it’s a drink which has been meticulously crafted to stand out, and to bring excitement and sophistication to every sip.”