---
title: "From Craft to Custom: How Soda Trends Are Redefining Beverage Strategy"
description: Discover how craft, functional, & customizable sodas are redefining beverage strategies, driving growth, and meeting consumer demands for health + personalization.
image: https://www.bernicks.com/hubfs/How%20Soda%20Trends%20Are%20Redefining%20Beverage%20Strategy.png
---

** 3 min. read

# From Craft to Custom: How Soda Trends Are Redefining Beverage Strategy

![Leah Bernick](https://www.bernicks.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20Soda%20Trends%20Are%20Redefining%20Beverage%20Strategy.png?width=80&height=80&length=80&name=How%20Soda%20Trends%20Are%20Redefining%20Beverage%20Strategy.png)

**Written by [Leah Bernick](https://www.bernicks.com/blog/author/leah-bernick)**

![From Craft to Custom: How Soda Trends Are Redefining Beverage Strategy](https://www.bernicks.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20Soda%20Trends%20Are%20Redefining%20Beverage%20Strategy.png?width=666&height=400&name=How%20Soda%20Trends%20Are%20Redefining%20Beverage%20Strategy.png)

## 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](https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/craft-soda-market), 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](https://www.ft.com/content/fb41fb3c-50f4-4665-b361-2c66db1ed109) for $1.95 billion — highlighting the massive consumer desire for gut-friendly alternatives.

Adding to the momentum, [PepsiCo has just launched a Prebiotic Cola](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pepsico-launches-first-ever-prebiotic-cola-in-traditional-cola-category-302509814.html) — 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](https://www.innovamarketinsights.com/trends/dirty-soda-trends-global-market-overview/) — 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

1. [**Meet evolving consumer expectations**](https://www.bernicks.com/blog/increase-beverage-sales-marketing-opportunities-with-fountain-soda), especially those driven by wellness and novelty.
2. **Drive growth**: Consumers are increasingly willing to spend more on premium and functional beverages.
3. **Outpace competitors**: Being among the first to stock next-gen sodas signals innovation and relevance.
4. **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](https://drinkpoppi.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooMGqmhaq_glYIBJQBuZvQGRxvaGHigvyZ7LtJlKSRKJMVcSE6-), 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.

[![Get Bernick's Products  From coffee, to craft brews, and soft drinks to snacks – we’ve got what you’re  looking for. Get Products](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/443935/4f086fd2-d0ab-4df5-ba5b-8a49f6ee8d41.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/443935/4f086fd2-d0ab-4df5-ba5b-8a49f6ee8d41)

**Published on: **Jan 20, 2016

**Topics: ** [Soda Fountain](https://www.bernicks.com/blog/topic/soda-fountain), [News](https://www.bernicks.com/blog/topic/news)

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