Archives: Agenda

Using data and insights drawn from Ai Palette’s 61 billion data points collected globally Todd Davis, Director of Innovation Intelligence, will:

• Look at emerging trends in ingredients, product themes, consumption contexts, product attributes and culinary environments in functional drinks, softs and no-lo beer
• Examine how engagement crossed with CAGR growth helps us identify what is positively trending v what is generating a lot of noise but may be on the wain
• Take our learnings from the above and feed them into the Ai Palette platform to generate original beverage concepts in real time including packaging visuals and food service concepts

The next big wave in functional beverages isn’t coming — it’s already here. Hemp-derived THC beverages are poised to redefine “better-for-you buzz,” opening the door to mass-market adoption in the U.S.

• What is THC, and why hemp matters— How hemp-derived THC sidesteps federal cannabis restrictions and unlocks true interstate commerce
• The U.S. market opportunity— Cannabis beverages have already surpassed $1B USD in annual sales — with hemp-derived THC beverages emerging as the fastest-growing segment
• Consumer demand curves— More than 50% of consumers under 35 are open to trying THC beverages, with “sessionable dosing” (2–5 mg) driving repeat purchases
• Regulatory clarity (and chaos)— Navigating the patchwork of state laws while preparing for the inevitability of federal change
• The strategic play— Why hemp-derived THC is the lowest-friction entry point into cannabis beverages today, and how early movers are seizing market share
• SōRSE Technology— The benchmark emulsion system powering leading brands to deliver safe, stable, and scalable THC beverages with confidence

• How soft-launch testing provides faster, deeper insights to drive brand growth
• Why customer behavior sometimes contradicts stated preferences
• How AI is transforming creative work and brand-customer fit

In this mind-expanding session, we explore how humans’ timeless pursuit of pleasure is shaping the next frontier of drinking culture.

• A global roundup of what’s new, unique, and rule-breaking
• A look at where we’re headed next as consumers seek joy, connection, wellbeing and rebellion

• Introducing a relatively new category, a breakout product that has become phenomenally successful very quickly
• Benefits of fermented tea
• What makes Real Sparkling Fermented Tea unique
• Understanding the consumers and trends driving demand for sparkling fermented tea