Raise the bar this Autumn

As autumn settles in and winter draws near, your customers are seeking comfort, warmth and memorable moments when venturing out for a drink. This is the perfect opportunity for venues to refresh their drinks menus with seasonal appeal. From bold, warming cocktails and spiced spirits, to sophisticated alcohol-free alternatives, the colder months encourage creativity behind the bar.

Fortunately, the Mix with Carlsberg Britvic platform can help you craft standout serves that capture the essence of autumn, winter and seasonal occasions. From Halloween to Bonfire Night, Christmas and New Year's Eve, there's plenty of opportunities to boost sales. However, it's not just about improving sales, it's about creating the kind of atmosphere that keeps people coming back for unforgettable moments with family and friends.

Why pitchers work

Incorporating pitchers into your drinks menu is a smart move for venues looking to boost group sales and streamline service. Made for sharing, pitchers encourage longer dwell time and higher spend per table, especially during social occasions and seasonal gatherings. They're also operationally efficient through being easy to batch, quick to serve, and delivering a strong look when garnished well. Whether alcoholic or alcohol-free, pitchers offer a flexible format that can be tailored to suit everything from casual catchups to festive celebrations, making them a valuable addition to any autumn/winter drinks offering.

The Spiced Iced Tea Pitcher is a standout addition to any autumn/winter drinks menu. Packed with flavour, the cocktail combines spiced rum, vodka, peach syrup, and lime juice. Topped with refreshing Pepsi MAX®, this serve delivers warming depth with a crisp finish that is ideal for colder evenings. Served over ice and finished with vibrant fruit garnish, it's both easy to prepare and visually appealing, making it a go-to option for venues looking to offer something seasonal, sociable, and sales-savvy.

However, not all pitchers need to contain alcohol. Some of the most inclusive and crowd-pleasing options are alcohol-free. The refreshing, seasonal serve – Spiced Berry Pitcher – is a perfect example. A vibrant blend of Mathieu Teisseire Raspberry syrup and Britvic Ginger Ale, served over ice and garnished with fresh fruit, this drink brings a touch of sparkle to any festive gathering. From family drinks to office parties, it allows pubs and bars to cater to all guests, whether they're looking for an alcohol-free option or simply looking for something delicious and different. Why not head over to the recipes section of the platform for further inspiration on your pitchers offering?

Simple serves, big impact

Mixed drinks offer a quick, approachable way to enjoy bold flavours without the fuss of complex cocktails. They're easy to prep, fast to pour and easily tailored to suit the season, whether it's citrusy and light for summer or rich and spiced for winter.

Take Gin and Cranberry for example, a simple yet effective seasonal serve that brings a crisp, festive twist to any pub or bar menu. Combining the botanical bite of London Dry Gin with the tart richness of Britvic Cranberry Juice, it's a refreshing option that feels right at home during autumn/winter. Served over ice and finished with a zesty lime wheel, this vibrant spirit and mixer is easy to prepare and ideal for guests seeking a simple option that still delivers bold flavour.

While simple mixed drinks remain popular for their ease and accessibility, don't forget that today's consumers sometimes also seek elevated serves that feel a touch more indulgent and crafted. They are also more willing to pay that little bit extra when celebrating the season.¹

The Black Cherry Collins delivers just that. A sophisticated twist on the classic Collins, the serve blends smooth vodka with the rich depth of Mathieu Teisseire Cherry Syrup and crisp bitterness of Britvic Indian Tonic. Served over ice and garnished with orange and blueberries, it's an aesthetic cocktail that offers layered flavour and a premium feel. This serve is ideal for venues looking to offer something special that still fits within fast-paced service.

That's just the beginning. There is even more to explore when it comes to seasonal serves that bring comfort, colour, and a touch of sophistication. Want more inspiration and a wider variety of our recommended winter warmers and festive favourites? Head over to the Mix with Carlsberg Britvic platform now and discover the full collection of recipes.

Enjoy Responsibly. be drinkaware.co.uk

Source:
1. Lumina Intelligence, Food and Drink Report, Dec 2023