On-trade cocktail sales were up in the 12 months to 2026 while 64% of drinks want more low- or medium-strength options when out—rising to 73% among 18–34s.
These are some findings released as part of a new report into drinks trends, which also reveal that Soft drinks and mixers total £4.7 billion in the on-trade, with flavoured carbonates growing by 9.5%.
According to the latest Drinks Trends & Insights report from Think Drinks, 67% of cocktail consumers have tried no/low alternatives while 44% of UK consumers are drinking less alcohol than a year ago.
When it comes to spending, the average restaurant spend per head in 2026 is £30.08 (up from £25.35 in early 2022).
43% of guests link restaurant value with high-quality food, while 38% link it with high-quality drinks. Only 30% strongly agree that restaurants offer good value for money.
41% of operators report declining footfall, alongside a 10.7% average rise in employment costs per person over two years.
The report, with data drawn from NIQ/CGA, IWSR, Bacardi Global Cocktail Trends, and current UK/US bar menus, outlined several macro shifts for 2027.
“2027 is less about inventing entirely new drinks and more about upgrading recognisable ones through flavour, freshness and presentation,” the company said. “ 65–70% of a seasonal menu should remain familiar — driving volume and giving staff confidence. Familiar structures reduce ordering risk.”
Wellness is also a leading consideration based around Moderation, refreshment, and adult soft drinks.
Menus should allow guests to move freely between full-strength, lighter, and 0% serves within the same flavour platform, they said.
Quality is also key with clarity, provenance, and execution. Only 13% of consumers say their Spritz is served correctly every time, while 77% check ingredient-origin information.
And on the experiential front “legible theatre wins”. The report said that 76% of Bacardi consumers value heightened, memorable experiences.
For venues this can mean frozen texture, stable foam, sparkling side serves, flights and sharing formats create a memorable moment the guest understands immediately.
