DoorDash released its inaugural Alcohol Online Ordering Trends Report and a first look at the third annual Restaurant Online Ordering Trends Report. Consumers continue to look for convenience as delivery apps have become a part of people’s everyday routines from ordering food and alcohol to groceries, gifts, and more. In fact, in 2023, consumers prefer ordering food via third-party apps or websites significantly more than in 2022.

Beverage-makers are seeking out inspiration across all aspects of the shopping experience to develop merchandising sets that will help their products stand out from the crowd.

The Coca-Cola Co., Atlanta, announced the launch of Coca-Cola Flex powered by Freestyle, a new beverage dispenser that offers an enhanced guest experience while reducing operational complexity. The next-generation dispenser debuted at the 2023 National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago.

Purchasing alcohol products through direct-to-consumer (DTC) methods have remained limited despite growing interest in this shopping platform.

Beverage wholesalers, retailers, restaurants and manufacturers are seeing how digital solutions can enhance operations to deliver a positive engagement with today’s consumers.

Despite inflationary concerns, consumers are seeking out treat experiences as experts note that the on-premise channel continues to bounce back.

As consumer behavior has changed significantly since the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation is having a momentous impact on drug and dollar store channels, experts note.

Speakeasy Co., San Diego, an eCommerce platform for alcohol brands, has received funding for its third seed round, with $6.8 million raised. The funding was led by InvestBev, an investment firm in the industry, with a portfolio including Siempre Tequila and Fyllo.

7-Eleven Inc., Irving, Texas, announced the newest addition to the Slurpee drink lineup: Vitaminwater Zero Sugar LOOK Slurpee. A blend of blueberry and hibiscus flavors, this sugar-free frozen drink is available now at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores for a limited-time only.

A new beverage-top printer was recently released by Ripples. The Ripple Maker II Pro features food technology with naturally changing print colors that quench rising consumer demand for novel drink experiences, the company says.