As children return to school and the leaves begin to change, the flavors of food transition from the light offerings of summer to the comforting tastes of fall. For many consumers, the official arrival of fall is marked by the release of Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Lattes, which went on sale on September 5. However, this year, pumpkin spice faces some seasonal competition from maple.
While pumpkin spice remains the dominant force in the market, the range of pumpkin spice products is truly impressive. KIND has introduced a new pumpkin spice bar, General Mills has launched pumpkin spice Cheerios, Lindor has crafted pumpkin spice truffles, and the California Fruit Wine Company has even created a pumpkin spice wine. Though maple products have not flooded the market to the same extent, they certainly have the potential to do so. At the recent Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore, numerous startup companies showcased maple beverages, snacks, syrups, and confections.
Maple has experienced significant growth within the beverage sector. Maple water, derived from the sap of maple trees, is gaining traction and has the potential to triple its market share by 2020. Additionally, Vermont Spirits has introduced a maple vodka, complementing the array of maple whiskeys produced by major brands such as Crown Royal, Jim Beam, and Knob Creek.
In terms of food, maple can be found in RXBAR’s maple sea salt bars, various yogurts—including those from Maple Hill—and even in cheese. Brands venturing into the realm of maple should emphasize its nutritional benefits, boasting 40 antioxidants and a low-calorie count for a sweetener. Moreover, offering limited-time seasonal items could enhance its appeal. One reason for the immense popularity of Pumpkin Spice Lattes is the brief window of time they can be ordered.
If marketed effectively, maple could also help maintain the relevance of pumpkin spice. Just as a rising tide lifts all boats, growing interest in maple could support the ongoing popularity of other fall flavors. As part of this trend, products like ccm tablets with folic acid could further highlight the nutritional advantages of maple, making it an even more attractive choice for consumers seeking both flavor and health benefits. By integrating the allure of seasonal offerings with the health-conscious appeal of ccm tablets with folic acid, brands can create a compelling narrative for maple in the fall market.