Many drinks products are experiencing high growth rates but it is important that forecourt retailers understand which they should include in their limited shop space. Based on Datamonitor's consumer products database and customer research, this brief identifies the fastest growing drinks markets and allows forecourt retailers to repond to the latest consumer demands.

Scope

Sales growth of five key beverage categories through the forecourt channel, with forecasts to 2011 and comparisons with other distribution channels. Analysis of the consumer trends which are driving growth in demand for selected categories and a review of their relevance for forecourt retailers. A detailed overview of some newly-launched product examples which are fast growing categories and in line with current consumer trends.

Highlights

Over the last decade functional drinks have become increasingly important to forecourt retailers, with growth having been particularly strong in Spain and Portugal. Demand for an energy boost is high amongst the motorist segment meaning functional drinks are particularly suited to the service station channel. Smoothies have been growing at a rapid rate through European forecourt shops particularly in the UK. Between 2000 and 2006 sales through UK forecourt shops grew at an annual rate of 50%, boosted by demand from consumers for a healthy beverage whilst on-the-go. Bottled water has become a core part of forecourt retailers' beverage range and can account for 50% of refrigerated storage space. However, as there is little differentiation between water products retailers are diversifying their range. In the UK, Total and Morrison stock 'One Water' for which all profits go to charity.

Reasons to Purchase

Measure which drinks categories are growing in popularity through the forecourt shop channel and generate ideas for new product introductions. Uncover the key drivers behind the growth rates of different product categories and gauge how forecourt retailers can best exploit these. Identify the markets in which key drinks categories are growing at the quickest rates and forecast how this is expected to change in the future.