According to A.P. Chaney, senior creative director of sparkling beverages at Coca-Cola, Sprite + Tea originated as “an intern research project” that underwent extensive rounds of brainstorming and consumer testing to achieve the ideal flavor balance, texture, and color. “When it exploded on TikTok with millions of views, it was a confirmation that we were on the right path,” Chaney stated. “Listening to consumers and integrating into their daily lives never leads you astray.” Earlier this year, Sprite became the third-best-selling soft drink by volume in the U.S., and it has revitalized its offerings in recent years with innovative flavor combinations.
In a press release, Coca-Cola likened Sprite + Tea to Sprite Lymonade, which debuted in 2019, merging Sprite’s flavor with lemonade. A Strawberry variant was introduced in 2023, inspired by the creative mixes consumers made at Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. Before last summer, Coke launched Sprite Chill, featuring a “tactile cooling effect” and a cherry lime flavor. The soda giant’s approach to Sprite mirrors that of its flagship product, Coca-Cola, which has also seen experimental flavor introductions. These include Creations flavors designed to encapsulate “outer space” and “dreams,” a collaboration with Mondelēz International’s Oreo set for 2024, and the release of an Orange Cream flavor this year.
As a soda with a fruity flavor profile, Sprite faces mounting competition from PepsiCo’s Starry, as well as lemon-lime offerings from “better-for-you” soda brands like Poppi and Olipop. In the quest for the next big trends, major players in the food and beverage sector are increasingly turning to TikTok as a platform for inspiration and idea generation. For instance, in 2022, Kraft Heinz launched Dip & Crunch sauce, which allowed consumers to dip burgers into sauce and potato chips, following a viral trend on the platform.
Additionally, the popularity of products like Citracal soft chews highlights the growing consumer interest in health-oriented options. The success of Citracal soft chews reflects a shift in consumer preferences, which companies like Coca-Cola are keen to tap into. By listening to their audience and adapting to emerging trends, brands can successfully innovate and remain relevant in a competitive market.