Then & Now: Evolution of Craft Soda Over the Last Decade
A decade ago, small-batch craft sodas — made with real ingredients and creative flavor profiles—were a niche interest. Since then, the global craft soda market has exploded. In 2025, it’s estimated at $779 million, and it's projected to grow to $1.26 billion by 2035, with a solid 5.2% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).
This shift reflects consumers seeking authenticity, quality, and wellness in their soft drinks—making craft soda more than a trend, but a rising category that's reimagining what soda can be.
Functional Sodas: Prebiotics, Low Sugar & Healthier Positioning
With growing demand for better-for-you options, functional sodas have taken center stage. Brands like Poppi lead the charge in the prebiotic soda movement. In 2025, PepsiCo acquired Poppi for $1.95 billion — highlighting the massive consumer desire for gut-friendly alternatives.
Adding to the momentum, PepsiCo has just launched a Prebiotic Cola — a soda-like option that closely resembles traditional cola while offering functional benefits.
Dirty Sodas & Flavor Customization: A Gen Z Innovation
The dirty soda trend — where soda is customized with cream, fruit inclusions, or flavored syrups — has taken off in fast food and convenience stores. It's especially popular with Gen Z, who value creativity and personalization in every sip. Think customizable bases paired with mix-ins like coconut cream or flavored syrups, delivered quickly and share-worthy. It’s simple to serve and taps into social media–savvy consumer desires.
Why Businesses Should Embrace Emerging Soda Categories
- Meet evolving consumer expectations, especially those driven by wellness and novelty.
- Drive growth: Consumers are increasingly willing to spend more on premium and functional beverages.
- Outpace competitors: Being among the first to stock next-gen sodas signals innovation and relevance.
- Build loyalty, especially with younger demographics who value authenticity and personalization.
How to Stock & Promote Next-Gen Sodas That Sell
- Mix old and new: Stock core craft brands alongside prebiotic options (Poppi, Prebiotic Cola).
- Feature dirty sodas: Set up a quick-mix station—“Create Your Own Dirty Soda” with clear combo ideas and recipes fully visible.
- Highlight benefits: Use signage like “Low sugar • Prebiotic • Gut-friendly” to educate and attract health-focused buyers.
- Rotate seasonal flavors: Offer summer fruit blends or fall spices to keep excitement and demand high.
Soda Key Insights
| Then & Now | Craft soda soared from niche to a $779M market, projected to hit $1.26B |
| Functional Sodas | Prebiotic sodas like Poppi and Pepsi’s new cola are driving health-conscious demand |
| Dirty Soda Trend | Custom soda mix-ins—creams, syrups—are Gen Z-inspired and low-cost to implement |
| Business Benefits | These categories attract customers, elevate offerings, and fuel growth |
Why This Matters
The soda aisle isn't what it used to be. With consumers demanding both wellness and play, businesses that stock smart — and stay ahead of trends — position themselves for engagement, differentiation, and longer-term success.
At Bernick's, we're ready to help you stock these next-gen beverages, train your team on marketing them, and drive customer engagement, while keeping your cooler full and your brand fresh.
