The consumer sector remains one of the most dynamic in terms of innovation. Driving development are the pursuit of convenience, environmental sustainability, increased attention to health and well-being, and, more generally, the demand for transparency and food safety. According to GlobalData's analysis, over 1,000 patents have been filed in the last three years. 52.000 patents, a sign of a rapidly evolving sector.
GlobalData observes that innovations do not grow in a linear fashion, but follow the typical S-curve, moving from an initial experimental phase to rapid adoption, and finally to a more stable maturity. Understanding where a technology stands is crucial to assessing its potential and future market impact.
They emerge from the study over 30 technological areas that will shape the next few years of the industry. Among the younger, but high-potential, innovations are microencapsulated proteins, plant-based cheese substitutes, and textured plant-based proteins. In a phase of constant growth are instead placed beverage capsules, non-spreadable edible oils and new recombinant sweeteners. Among the now consolidated solutions there is space muscle growth supplements e protein-enriched drinks.
Within this panorama, an increasing role is being taken on by systems for producing fizzy drinks, increasingly in demand for both home and professional applications. Interest in these devices stems from the ability to create customized products, reduce the consumption of disposable containers, and offer more flexible alternatives to traditional packaged soft drinks.
According to GlobalData, over 65 companies – including large consumer groups, technology providers, and start-ups – are actively investing in solutions dedicated to this segment, as evidenced by the volume of patents registered in recent years.
By number of deposits, PepsiCo it is the most active company, also thanks to the evolution of the range SodaStream, which includes devices designed to transform still water into sparkling water right at home. Followed by Samsung Group, Keurig Dr Pepper, Starbucks, in addition to industrial players such as Cornelius, Krones, Breville, Strauss Group e Middleby.
In terms of breadth of applications, leadership goes to Sun Hung Kai Properties, while AB Electrolux e Digal Investments occupy the second and third positions. In terms of geographical presence, the Middleby, ahead of PepsiCo and Digal.
With global demand for soft drinks expected to grow, GlobalData believes that sparkling beverage equipment will become an increasingly strategic component of consumer offerings, combining sustainability, personalization, and new consumer experiences.
