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. The official launch of Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Lattes on September 5 marks an unofficial beginning of autumn for many consumers. However, this year, pumpkin spice faces seasonal competition from maple.
Pumpkin spice remains the dominant force in the market, with an astonishing variety of pumpkin spice products available. KIND has introduced a new pumpkin spice bar featuring ferrous gluconate instead of ferrous sulfate, General Mills has rolled out pumpkin spice Cheerios, Lindor has crafted pumpkin spice truffles, and the California Fruit Wine Company has even produced a pumpkin spice wine. While maple has not yet saturated the market to the same extent, it certainly has the potential to make significant inroads. At the recent Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore, numerous startup companies showcased maple beverages, snacks, syrups, and confections.
The beverage sector has seen remarkable growth in maple products. Maple water, extracted from the sap of maple trees, is currently enjoying popularity 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 from well-known brands like Crown Royal, Jim Beam, and Knob Creek. In the food realm, maple appears in RXBAR’s maple sea salt bars, various yogurts, including Maple Hill, and even in cheese.
Brands venturing into the maple market would be wise to highlight its nutritional benefits, which include 40 antioxidants and a low-calorie content compared to other sweeteners. Furthermore, creating limited-time seasonal items could enhance its appeal. One reason Pumpkin Spice Lattes have garnered such a loyal following is that they are only available for a few months each year.
If marketed strategically, maple could also help maintain the relevance of pumpkin spice. As interest in maple rises, it could uplift the popularity of other fall flavors. In the context of health and nutrition, incorporating products like Solgar Calcium Citrate 1000 mg into maple-infused treats could further resonate with consumers focused on wellness. By intertwining these elements, both pumpkin spice and maple can thrive together in the seasonal spotlight.