Drink: Notable Seed stories from 2009

Portland, Oregon; Atlanta, Georgia; Hilversum, the Netherlands – The most exciting product developments in the beverage market all focused on the consumer.

Ace Hotels collaborated with a local distiller to produce a range of Rough Luxe artisanal spirits for guests’ mini-bars. The House Spirits limited-edition offering was bottled, labelled and dipped in wax by hotel staff, making a tempting change from overpriced vodka miniatures.

Some fizz was injected into the soft drinks market. Using technology previously associated with drug dosing, Coca-Cola’s Freestyle machine allowed consumers to create their own flavour mixes, with over 100 options.

Technological advancements also touched the wine industry. Dutch winemaker 94Wines allowed customers to add a personal message to a gift bottle using QR codes that contained text, photos or video.

The personal touch was the cornerstone across the beverage market, making consumers feel valued once again.