Forecourt Trader – publication date 1 April 2026
Convenience Store – publication date, 3 April 2026
Fizzy drinks – cola and fruit carbonates – remain among the top segments in the soft drinks category. But the type of cans and bottles in convenience store chillers are changing as sugar free, functional and elevated adult beverages become more important.
This feature will look at the opportunities, growth areas and new launches in the carbonates category – with advice to retailers on top sellers, new entrants and merchandising/promotions.
We would welcome feedback on the following by 24 March, together with high resolution pack-shot and lifestyle photography.
- How are carbonates performing and where are the biggest growth areas – please include up to date figures where possible?
- What significant launches are there recently or planned? What do they bring to the category in terms of innovation?
- What are the must-stocks? Which new areas of carbonates should be included in convenience stores’ ranges?
- How are suppliers adapting products to the high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) regulations?
- How are zero sugar products performing? What percentage of the total market do they make up?
- With the move away from alcohol we are seeing a greater opportunity in adult carbonates – how can retailers make the most of this opportunity, and what are suppliers doing in this area?
- How should convenience stores promote carbonates?
- What changes are we seeing in the way that consumers enjoy carbonates?
- What advice do you give on convenience stores stocking limited edition carbonates?
- What significant promotions do you have coming up?
- How will the carbonates sector continue to evolve?
Please feel free to add anything else that you think will be of interest for this feature, and send submissions to juliet.morrison@wrbm.com
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