According to a report released today, Americans are swapping drip coffee for canned caffeine, as rising bean prices push consumers toward energy drinks, diet sodas, and premium barista beverages. The shift signals both price sensitivity on everyday brews and a willingness to splurge on café indulgences.
RBC Capital Markets Managing Director Nik Modi breaks down what has — and hasn’t — changed in the food and beverage industry since mid-2025.
Office workers are eating out more but remain underserved, creating a wide open lane for restaurants that can deliver protein rich, fiber forward, globally inspired lunches at a $12–$15 price point. Operators who design specifically for repeat weekday demand can turn office lunch into a high frequency growth engine.
Expo West 2026 showcased consumers’ growing demand for products that merge clean ingredients, functional benefits, and nostalgic delight. Brands winning the moment are using wellness claims to stay relevant.
Food M&A is shifting from volume to surgical, synergy driven deals, as buyers chase premium, health-oriented brands and under-used operational assets. With credit conditions easing and PE circling, 2026 could reignite consolidation – just with far sharper discipline.
