Coffee chains are thriving by chasing under-penetrated markets, ultra-fast service, and LTOs. Their plan for 2026: speed, loyalty-building experiences, and pop culture collaborations.
CES roared back to full strength in 2026, and food focused innovators stole a surprising share of the spotlight with breakthroughs in water tech, AI powered cooking, and experiential retail. For brands watching the future of food and beverage, a handful of standout exhibitors offered a glimpse of where consumer expectations are headed.
Cocktails are entering their maximalist era, with bars embracing chef driven techniques, purposeful garnishes, and tiny pours that turn drinks into full sensory experiences. This year expect umami rich creations, amaro riffs, and endlessly reimagined martinis.
AI is shifting from pilot projects to full scale deployment in restaurants, reshaping everything from kitchen workflows and pricing to fraud prevention. As automation ramps up, operators gain efficiency – and space to refocus on culture.
