FOODSERVICE FUEL: LITTLE TREATS,
BIG IMPACT

EMBRACING “LITTLE TREAT” CULTURE

Forget the big splurge – today’s consumers are leaning into small indulgences that offer instant gratification. Whether it’s a sweet iced coffee, a whipped-topped milkshake, or a globally inspired latte, beverages are at the center of little treat culture. 

More than a quarter of Americans “doomspend” to cope with stress, especially younger consumers (Datassential’s 2025 Trends). And 64% say they’d rather splurge on small treats frequently than on bigger luxuries less often. That’s a green light for craveable, comforting, visually indulgent beverages that layer textures and flavors to create elevated decadence.

ELEVATED BEVERAGES DELIVER ON INDULGENCE 

Beverages are no longer just menu fillers – they’re mood boosters. Nearly 90% of consumers say they indulge in a favorite food or beverage at least once a week, and 37% do so daily (Datassential’s Elevate Huddle: Permissible Indulgence, March 2024). Sweet, creamy, over-the-top drinks – like frozen coffees, dessert lattes, and milkshakes – hit the mark for indulgent moments. Millennials and Gen Z are particularly drawn to toppings like whipped cream and drizzles, which have grown +12% in usage among Millennials (Datassential BUZZ 2025). 

Now’s the time to elevate everyday beverages with bold, indulgent toppings and builds. Think flavor-packed drizzles, whipped toppings, or even globally inspired options that transform a basic drink into something craveable and memorable. By layering flavor and texture, operators can turn classic beverages into signature experiences. 

WHAT’S NEXT? GLOBAL COFFEE SHOP CULTURE 

The café landscape is expanding with international inspiration. Interest is rising in globally rooted drinks like Vietnamese coffee (46% of consumers are interested in trying) and shakeratos (51% of consumers are interested in trying) (Datassential 2025 Trends). 

Consumers are eager for layered, flavor-forward beverages—from Korean cream-topped lattes to Latin American-inspired dulce de leche drinks. And with 67% of operators saying there’s still opportunity for coffee innovation in the U.S., the time to act is now (Datassential 2025 Trends). 

INDULGENT GLOBAL VARIETIES ARE GROWING ON BEVERAGE MENUS

(PAST FOUR YEAR GROWTH)

PUT IT INTO ACTION: ADD TEXTURE TO ADD VALUE 

From boba pearls to cold foam, textured beverages create a multi-sensory experience that drives consumer excitement—and sales. Drinks that combine flavor, texture, and visual appeal are especially attractive to Gen Z and Millennials (Datassential BUZZ 2025).

Whether you’re looking to add texture, offer a global twist, or tap into the craveability of soft whip and frozen indulgence, Rich’s has you covered. Our lineup of products is built to help you deliver the next big little treat—without added labor or complexity: