Industry Insights: The Transformative Shift in Carbonated Soft Drinks

This report is part of a series on key trends that are currently affecting the consumer landscape. This report offers an analysis of how functional and low-sugar alternatives of soft drinks are playing a major role in consumers' everyday wellness habits.

As consumers moderate alcohol intake and prioritize health and wellness, brands can reposition functional, low-sugar carbonated soft drinks as both an alternative to alcohol and a staple in daily wellness routines. Within functional sodas, prebiotic and gut-health options are growing faster than other segments. Long-term, brands should invest in reducing sugar using new technologies or natural ingredients that maintain the soda’s texture.

Report Scope

• Carbonates value sales are forecasted to grow from $431.6 billion in 2025 to $522.3 billion in 2030.
• Regulatory pressures, competition from other categories, and rising health and ingredient scrutiny is reshaping the carbonated soft drinks category.
• 45% of consumers look for sugar content on packaging when deciding how healthy a product is for themselves.
• Fortified and nutraceutical sodas are forecast to reach by 9.2% and 22.2%, respectively, between 2020 and 2025.

Reasons to Buy

• Understand the relevant category trends and attitudes that can drive and support innovation and brand strategy.
• Gain a broader appreciation of the foodservice industry by gaining insights from both within and outside of your sector.
• Access valuable strategic take-outs to help direct decision-making and inform new product development.