A Year of Innovation in the Carbonated Soft Drinks Market 2023

Explore the latest innovations across the global carbonated soft drinks industry in 2023. Our global soft drinks market report identifies the biggest launch activities, pivotal consumer attitudes and important advances of the year across regions like EMEA, APAC, and the Americas.

Innovation in Carbonated Soft Drinks – EMEA

Flavor is at the core of new product development in the carbonated soft drink (CSD) industry, as producers continue to use new flavors and flavor combinations as a way of building excitement and creating standout products.

• 63% of French CSD consumers like experimenting with different flavors and brands.

Elsewhere, the stresses and anxiety caused by modern life, such as the cost-of-living crisis, are generating a demand for food and drink products that support mental wellbeing. Carbonated soft drinks are associated with delivering a mood boost, so the prioritization of wellness bodes well for the industry.

Innovation in Carbonated Soft Drinks – APAC

For many Asian consumers, sugar is an increasingly unwelcome ingredient in CSDs. This could be a threat to the industry, as CSDs are associated with sugary recipes. However, companies in Asia have been actively investing in zero-sugar formulations, and sugar-free or low- or reduced calorie claims are increasing among new product launches in Asia.

• 57% of Chinese adults who have cut back on carbonated soft drinks have done so to cut back on sugar.

Innovation in Carbonated Soft Drinks – Americas

In the US, consumers continue to seek out more natural soft drinks. As a result, brands are strengthening their natural credentials and distancing themselves from an overly synthetic image by removing additives and preservatives.

• 28% of US CSD consumers would be encouraged to buy a new product if it was a clean-label one.

Consumers’ heightened interest in alcohol alternatives offers opportunities for CSD brands. But to cement their place as an alternative to alcohol, CSDs will need to offer ‘better-for-you’ qualities and replicate the particular taste expectations associated with alcohol.

Purchase our full report for an in-depth look at the latest innovations in the global carbonated soft drinks industry. If you like to learn more about the industry, take a look at our Future of Carbonated Soft Drinks Market Report, or explore our extensive CSD market research.

Expert Analysis from an Innovation Specialist

This report, written by Amrin Walji, a leading innovation analyst, delivers in-depth commentary and analysis to highlight global trends and innovation in carbonated soft drinks and add expert context to the numbers.

Recipes with low/no sugar content and clean-label qualities are big focuses of innovation, and brands are also engaging with the alcohol reduction trend.

Amrin Walji
Senior Innovation Analyst