Based on visits to almost 400 venues nationwide and supported by third-party research, the report identifies four major themes driving consumer demand: global flavours, fruit-forward, indulgence and nostalgia, and experimental textures.
Global inspiration
‘Sip the World’ leads the forecast, with operators embracing flavours from Asia and beyond. Ingredients such as lychee, coconut, matcha and miso are expected to dominate, offering drinkers “an escape in a glass”.
Monin says that exotic, transportive serves are helping venues tap into consumers’ desire for adventure, while maintaining a sense of comfort and familiarity.
As the weather heats up, fruit-forward refreshers are expected to surge in popularity, particularly among health-conscious guests seeking taste without excess sugar. Tropical flavour profiles like peach, apricot and cherry are set to feature in iced teas, mocktails and low-ABV serves.
Monin’s data shows 63% of consumers enjoy trying new and exciting drinks, and that lighter serves are “key to attracting daytime and casual occasions”.
Indulgence and nostalgia
In contrast, premium indulgence continues to thrive. Bakery-inspired flavours such as tiramisu, pistachio and pecan pie are predicted to bring comfort and nostalgia to summer menus, echoing a trend toward treat-led experiences.
Monin notes that nine in ten consumers believe “life is more fun with a bit of indulgence,” and that emotional, memory-led flavours will justify premium pricing.
Half of UK consumers say they want to explore unique, signature serves, with cold foams, flavoured creams and “swicy” (sweet and spicy) combinations among the most prominent experimental trends.
Textural variety, Monin adds, has become a visual and sensory driver for both coffee and cocktail menus.
Commenting on the findings, Jamie Carey, senior marketing manager at Monin UK & Ireland, said: “With the help of Monin’s latest trends report, venues can stay ahead of the curve when preparing for warmer seasons. Our research helps operators connect with their customers through innovative, trend-led drinks that offer both experience and value.
“From branded chains to independents, we’ve been scouring the UK for the coffee and cocktail trends of tomorrow. This report provides operators with the insight they need to create memorable, commercially successful menus in 2026.”
The report also highlights the increasing importance of experience-led drinks, as operators prioritise creativity and emotional engagement over discounting to drive loyalty and repeat visits.
The Spring/Summer report follows Monin’s Autumn/Winter trends release, which identified nostalgia, functional serves and coffee cocktail hybrids as key seasonal themes.
