The future of beverage innovation
15 May 2026

The future of beverage innovation

5THWAVE - The Business of Coffee and Hospitality

About

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the fast-moving world of beverage innovation.

Everyone wants to know what the next big beverage trend will be – the next iced matcha, mushroom latte or ube cold foam moment. But true beverage innovation is more than chasing trends. It’s about understanding what consumers value, recognising emerging opportunities, and delivering products in ways that feel relevant, distinctive and authentic to your brand.

So in this episode, we’re asking – how can operators build an innovative beverage programme? Which flavours, formats and signature drinks are genuinely resonating with consumers today? And where will the next wave of inspiration come from?

We're joined by Josh Tarlo, Director of Growth, Origin Coffee, Chi Sum Ngai, Co-Founder, Coffee Project New York, and David Deeley, Marketing Director for Foodservice Europe, Kerry.

Credits music: "Mary Jane" by Arif Raihan in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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