From the Editor: Beverage Boom

It’s a beverage bonanza throughout the latest issue of FER. Just look at the R&D from fountain beverage dispenser manufacturers in our equipment comparison on Page 38. In our state of the industry report on Page 44, Technomic’s Senior Principal David Henkes points to beverage innovation. Then Yum Brands offers an inside look on Page 11 at what modern diners expect. Beverages are a small but accessible joy, the company says.

“As we move through 2025, our data at Technomic shows that the beverage category represents one of the most dynamic and profitable opportunities for growth,” Henkes says in his blog post The Liquid Revolution.

Several of Henkes’ reasons for the beverage boom stand out to me. Beverages usually offer a higher profit margin than food items, helping operators boost the bottom line. And compared with food items, they typically require less kitchen space, specialized equipment or extensive preparation time. Henkes adds that a well-designed beverage program can help a brand create loyalty, demonstrate relevancy and show it’s forward-looking.

Along with our beverage coverage, our cover and Design section also sport two highlights of the issue. In 2026, FER will celebrate its 30th anniversary and Julie Wilhm, who has served as the magazine’s art director since Day 1, has crafted a logo, which will appear on the cover throughout the year. Our September/October issue will mark the official anniversary with a special feature on 30 smart savings tips. And in the Design section, you’ll find a fresh column, called Here’s the Deal (Page 27). Appearing in each issue, this column will feature dealers and their tips for operators.

In this issue and beyond, there is a lot to look forward to. FER’s Managing Editor Lauren Coughlin and I are excited to try different restaurants in the new year. “While I truly love Chicago staples like deep-dish pizza and a well-dressed Wrigley Field hot dog, in 2026, I plan to test out at least one newer fast-casual option in my area: Chicken Salad Chick,” she says. “Since I also know a little something about their prep process from an FER equipment comparison, I’m extra curious to see the niche concept in action.” I would like to try Jack in the Box, which just came back to the Chicago area.

ALLISON REZENDES
Editor-in-Chief
arezendes@fermag.com

3 THINGS

Technomic’s David Henkes offers the following insights from his blog post The Liquid Revolution:

MORE THAN HYDRATION
Beverages that promise wellness benefits, such as enhanced energy or improved immunity, are taking off.

CRAFT IS STANDARD
First seen with beer and coffee, the craft movement has expanded to all beverage categories.

COLD RULES
Henkes says cold beverages are far outpacing hot beverages and expects this will continue over the next several years.