Just like everything else in the dining industry, changes brought about by the pandemic continue to drive the habits of members and their cocktail consumption. Cocktails have been following similar industry trends as the rest of the dining experience, and clubs are recognizing that consumers are prioritizing health and sustainability along with choosing higher-quality products and simpler serves. By staying current with key trends, clubs are able to boost their member satisfaction for the entire dining experience, from beginning to end.
There has been a growing respect in low-alcohol and non-alcoholic cocktails, and clubs are thinking about these selections with just as much thought as their regular cocktail menu. As the pandemic continues to influence people’s mindsets, more drinkers are looking for balance in their consumption habits. Low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages are becoming increasingly popular, and with better-quality products flooding the market, clubs are able to better serve this demand. Options such as mocktails and zero-proof spirits offer a similar taste to their traditional counterparts without the effects. These drinks are ideal for health-conscious guests as well as those who are looking to reduce their alcohol intake or cut it out of their diet entirely.
Along with becoming more health-conscious, moderation has also become a part of consumers’ everyday lifestyle. With consumers continuing to drink a little less, they are willing to pay for quality and upgrade to a more premium spirit. With taking a “less is more” approach, consumers are looking for higher-quality, premium spirits that they can take their time to savor and enjoy. There has also been a growing interest in tequila and mezcal, which are also being swapped out for other spirits in classic cocktails. The rising popularity in these agave-based spirits can be attributed to the growing popularity and visibility of Mexican food and culture, as well as an increase in premium agave spirits on the market.
Minimalism is emerging as a trend where the focus is on quality ingredients that shine in simpler serves. After a period of complicated cocktails, drinks with simplicity are back. With comfort in the familiar, many are seeking ‘retro’ drinks, such as a classic cosmo or espresso martini, but with a modern twist.
Ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails are pre-packaged, pre-mixed cocktails, ready for consumption upon opening. Perfectly portioned, these drinks are a convenient cocktail alternative that saves bartenders valuable time. RTD cocktails come in several different forms and can be enjoyed straight from the can or poured into a glass. As more big brands are joining the RTD craze, the canned-cocktail options continue to grow. Bartenders are also pre-batching their own cocktails instead of mixing them on the spot, which has become another time-saving alternative during busy services.
Cocktails are an important add-on that can enhance the member dining experience. Being able to easily upsell beverages and align cocktails to consumer preferences and current industry trends allows clubs to boost their revenue as well as member satisfaction.
