Data-driven insights, research findings, and emerging trends impacting brands, distributors, and operators.
beverage alcohol brand activation and marketing growth trends
If the last few years have proven anything, it’s this: the bev-alc industry doesn’t just evolve—it reinvents. As we roll into 2026, the brands that win will be the ones that ditch the cookie-cutter tactics and embrace real innovation, consumer context, and measurable impact. So, what’s ahead for beverage alcohol marketing? Here are the key trends shaping the future. 1. The Death of Passive Marketing Let’s be honest—billboards, posters, and static social ads aren’t moving the needle anymore. Consumers are bombarded with noise and scroll past most of it. The new era is all about…
Beverage alcohol brands pour billions into on-premise marketing, yet much of that investment fails to deliver results. Why? Because too often, marketing efforts don’t align with what bars and restaurants truly need. Operators are overwhelmed, and ineffective marketing only adds to their burden. Discover the common pitfalls that lead to wasted spend and learn how successful brands are shifting their strategies to create mutual value. By prioritizing operator success, brands can enhance execution, strengthen partnerships, and ultimately drive sales. Dive into the insights that can transform your beverage alcohol marketing approach.
Breweries are rethinking production lines, leaner, more efficient, and ready for 2026.
Brewing Through the Crunch: Why Leaner Is the New Normal. By AppyHour Industry Insights The beer industry has always been dynamic, but 2026 is shaping up as a reset year for breweries across the country. The numbers don’t lie: consumer demand is cooling, operating costs are rising, and many breweries are being forced to rethink their entire business model. For suppliers, this isn’t just background noise—it’s the context that defines how your brewery customers will make decisions moving forward. To thrive in this environment, suppliers must understand the realities breweries are facing and evolve alongside…
The Cost of Tap Handles vs. AppyHour: Which Delivers More Value? In bars and restaurants, brand visibility is essential, but traditional tap handles come with high costs and limited consumer engagement. While tap handles have been a marketing staple, brands are increasingly choosing AppyHour for a more affordable, data-driven solution that offers a better return on investment. The High Cost of Tap Handles for Brands and Distributors Tap handles may be iconic, but they involve significant costs: Manufacturing & Distribution: Producing custom tap handles costs between $30 to $100 each, plus additional logistics, installation, and…
