As we head into 2025, we’re thrilled to bring you our annual drinks trends episode featuring Bryan Roth, director of insights for Sightlines and the consumer and market analyst for Feel Goods Company. Widely respected as one of the industry’s top forecasters, Bryan shares his perspectives on what’s shaping the future of beverages, from emerging categories to shifting consumer behaviors.

In this episode, Bryan shares:

• Why the no- and low-alcohol segments are diverging and how each is evolving into distinct categories

• Insights into flavor trends, from bold Asian-inspired influences to the growing embrace of bitter and savory profiles

• Why young consumers demand both customization and immediacy in their drink choices

• How RTD beverages are becoming more sophisticated, catering to consumers’ desire for flavor clarity and premiumization

• The untapped potential for draft beverages — beyond beer — as the on-premise market continues to rebound

Bryan’s insights highlight the key opportunities and challenges for drinks brands in 2025, offering actionable takeaways for founders, marketers, and innovators alike.

To hear more of Bryan’s drinks trend updates, subscribe to the Sightlines newsletter. Enter the code "DRINKS" on the signup page (https://www.sightlines.news/sign-up) for a free month of access.

Last Call:On this week’s Last Call, Scott quizzes Caroline and Erica on industry stats, such as: How many new bev alc producers were licensed by the TTB last year? How many new products came onto the market? Listen in for the answers you need to know! 

Stay tuned for our next episode dropping on January 8. 

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Erica Duecy, co-host:Erica Duecy is founder and co-host of Business of Drinks and one of the drinks industry’s most accomplished digital and content strategists. She runs the consultancy and advisory arm of Business of Drinks and has built publishing and marketing programs for Drizly, VinePair, SevenFifty, and other hospitality and drinks tech companies.

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Scott Rosenbaum, co-host:Scott Rosenbaum is co-host of Business of Drinks and a veteran strategist and analyst with deep experience building drinks portfolios. He currently serves as North America Search Manager at Distill Ventures. He was formerly the Vice President of T. Edward Wines & Spirits, a New York-based importer and distributor.

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Caroline Lamb, contributor:Caroline is a producer and on-air contributor at Business of Drinks and a key account sales and marketing specialist at AHD Vintners.

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