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Beers and ciders are evolving with functional cues, flavour exploration and better-for-you options, as non-alcoholic alternatives continue to gain momentum. Zoe Wong, Analyst - Mintel Food & Drink…
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Beer and Cider
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A Year of Innovation in Beer and Cider 2026
"Beers and ciders are evolving with functional cues, flavour exploration and better-for-you options, as non-alcoholic alternatives continue to gain momentum."
Zoe Wong, Analyst - Mintel Food & Drink
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What we have seen
Our pick of the most innovative launches in this review
Other innovative launches
Global spotlight: ethical and positioning claims lead the category
Graph 1: beer and cider launches, by select claim categories, 2025-26
The Future of Beer & Cider: 2026
EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA (EMEA)
Europe: functional cues have taken off in non-alcoholic alternatives
Alcohol-free options are gaining traction
The share of alcohol-free claims has seen a steady growth
Graph 2: beer and cider launches, by select alcohol-related claims, 2021-26
Hangover-free beers with a functional boost
Europe: brands innovate around seasonal offerings to tap into celebratory moments
Seasonal beers and ciders fit into festive moments
Seasonal beers and ciders rebound in launch share
Seasonal beers mark festive moments year-round
The Middle East & Africa (MEA)
The share of non-imported beers and ciders has surpassed imported launches
ASIA PACIFIC (APAC)
Asia: beer and cider brands explore flavour cues from adjacent beverage categories
Drinkers crave novel flavour experiences
Beverage flavours have seen a jump in launch activity
Graph 3: unflavored beer and cider launches with 'beverage' as flavour component group, 2021-26
Brands lean into regional tea varieties
Other beverage concepts find inroads into beers
Asia: better-for-you beers and ciders cater to weight-management trend
Weight-consciousness influences beer consumption
Sugar-free claims lead in better-for-you beers and ciders
Graph 4: beer and cider launches, by selected minus claims, 2021-26
Brands spotlight fermentation methods in better-for-you beers
Australia & New Zealand
Brewers are expanding into low carb ranges
THE AMERICAS
North America: Mexican-style beers are trending
Mexican beers hold strong appeal
Mexican-style beers are making inroads
Graph 5: beer launches with 'Mexico' or 'Mexican' in the product description, 2021-26
Domestic brands dial up Mexican cues
North America: brewers respond to the growing wellness trend
Health and wellness trends are reshaping drinking habits
Brands step up innovation in alcohol‑free and light offerings
Graph 6: beer and cider launches, by select alcohol-related claims, 2021-26
Alcohol-free beers cater to different occasions
Brand renovation/innovation: Patagonia Provisions and Deschutes Brewery have introduced a non-alcoholic IPA brewed with kernza
Latin America: international beer and cider styles cater to consumers' interest in novel experiences
Imported beers and ciders see rising launch activity
Graph 7: beer and cider launches, by import status, 2021-26
Local brewers explore global flavours and ingredients
Explore the latest innovations in beer and cider with Mintel’s global innovation report. The report identifies the major launch activities, pivotal consumer attitudes and most important product developments over the past 12 months.
Key innovation trends in the global beer and cider market are analysed and succinctly presented alongside Mintel’s consumer data and insights. So you can understand changing consumer demands and identify future growth opportunities.
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