The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

Monin, the French-owned syrup manufacturer, has expanded its UK portfolio with the launch of two new flavours designed to help on-trade operators capitalise on high-growth consumer trends. The new additions, Hot Honey and Maple Pecan Pie, are strategically positioned to drive "spend per visit" in a competitive hospitality market by enabling premium, experimental beverage serves.

The launch addresses two distinct but dominant flavour trajectories in the current market: the rise of "swicy" (sweet and spicy) profiles and the enduring demand for nostalgia-driven indulgence.

Tapping into the 'Swicy' Phenomenon

The Hot Honey syrup is a direct response to the explosion of sweet-heat combinations across foodservice and social media. Citing internal market data, Monin noted a sharp rise in UK search interest for hot honey in 2025.

Tony Kousoulou, beverage expert at Monin, highlighted the operational advantage for bartenders and baristas:

Affordable Indulgence through Nostalgia

The second launch, Maple Pecan Pie, targets the "comfort" occasion. Designed to replicate bakery-style notes, this flavour aims to resonate with consumers seeking affordable treats during periods of economic uncertainty. This alignment with "nostalgia-driven indulgence" supports the growing trend of dessert-style cocktails and premium hot drinks.

Clean Label and Operational Fit

Both syrups are formulated to meet modern dietary requirements, a critical factor for menu inclusivity. They are:

• Vegan

• Allergen-free

• Made with natural flavourings and colourings

This clean-label approach allows operators to deploy the flavours across broad menus without complicating allergen management protocols.

Strategic Partnerships and Distribution

Monin, which reported global sales of 173 million bottles in 2023, continues to evolve from a pure ingredients supplier to a strategic partner offering trend data and menu development.

Both products will be rolled out to the UK on-trade via distributor Bennett Opie. Significantly, the Hot Honey variant has secured a major listing, set to launch across more than 500 Greene King venues from April, signalling strong initial uptake in the pub sector.