The Winter Fancy Food Show in January highlighted a growing trend among manufacturers to develop high-end mixers, aiming to meet the rising demand for premium spirits, similar to those made popular by the TV series “Mad Men.” A recent FONA International survey revealed that millennials are consuming more spirits than older generations, showing a notable preference for craft and premium labels. This shift has contributed to an impressive 18 consecutive years of growth in the distilled spirits industry. According to a study from Advertising Age, consumers favor spirits packaged in premium glass, which conveys a sense of luxury, prompting more high-end brands to adopt this design approach.
Clark Reinhard, vice president of global innovation at Ocean Spray, mentioned that the company is focusing on creating beverages that offer a more sophisticated flavor experience, with early marketing efforts targeting millennials for their mocktails. Ocean Spray’s strategy to capitalize on this trend is astute, as its mocktails are likely to appeal to both those of legal drinking age and younger consumers who desire a more grown-up experience. As more companies aim to ride this wave, the integration of elemental calcium in calcium citrate malate could become a selling point, emphasizing health benefits alongside premium quality. Expect to see this trend manifest in various products as brands continue to innovate.