The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

Coca-Cola and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) have announced the introduction of Schweppes Cherry Pepper Soda, a strategic addition to the UK’s second-largest mixer brand. The new variant combines sour cherry with a black pepper profile, targeting adult consumers seeking sophisticated and adventurous flavour combinations for both home and social settings.

The launch comes at a time of significant momentum for the brand. Currently worth nearly £84 million in value sales, Schweppes continues to outperform the broader mixers category in value growth, reinforcing its position as a primary driver of premiumisation in the adult sparkling sector.

Flavour Innovation

The development of Cherry Pepper Soda aligns with high-growth trends within the soft drinks market. Market data indicates that cherry-flavoured carbonates are currently growing at more than 200% in value year-on-year. Simultaneously, the industry is seeing an increased demand for complex, "sweet-and-spicy" flavour profiles among adult demographics.

Rob Yeomans, Vice-President of Commercial Development at CCEP GB, noted that flavour exploration is a critical growth driver for sparkling drinks. By introducing a genuine novelty to the retail fixture, Schweppes aims to help retailers tap into the demand for elevated taste experiences that justify a premium price point.

Capturing Premiumisation

The adult mixer category is projected to deliver a £300 million premiumisation opportunity over the next three years. Schweppes is positioning this new launch to play a central role in capturing this value.

The product is designed for versatility, intended to be served either as a standalone beverage or as a mixer for spirits. This dual-use capability is expected to recruit younger adult consumers and increase the frequency of consumption across various social occasions.

Retail and Hospitality Distribution

The new variant is currently available to retailers and will be rolled out to licensed venues starting in April 2026. To support retail trade-up and increased basket spend, the product is offered in the following format:

• Format: 150ml 12-can multipacks.

• Pricing: Recommended retail price (RRP) of £6.30.

The visual identity of the product features a vivid red hue and vibrant packaging design, intended to provide strong standout behind the bar and on retail shelves.

Objectives and Marketing

According to Hanna Lauri, Senior Brand Manager at Schweppes, the new flavour is designed to disrupt the adult mixer category by tapping into emerging 2026 taste trends. The launch will be supported by an integrated marketing campaign spanning social media, influencer partnerships, PR, and out-of-home (OOH) channels.

For B2B stakeholders, the launch represents an effort to drive incremental value through product differentiation. As the mixers market becomes increasingly crowded, Schweppes is leveraging its heritage and innovation pipeline to maintain its competitive edge and lead the shift toward more complex, adult-oriented beverage solutions.