Schweppes Introduces New Flavours in Cape Town
The Guide Online recently attended the Cape Town leg of the launch of Schweppes’ latest flavour additions: Tangerine, Pomegranate, and Pineapple & Coconut. The launch was accompanied by a brunch experience curated in collaboration with J Something and his wife, Coco, who developed a three-course menu inspired by the new flavours.
The national rollout began in Johannesburg with Tangerine, continued in Durban with Pomegranate, and concluded in Cape Town with Pineapple & Coconut.
According to Marketing Director – Premium & Emerging Category, Sinoxolo Mpofu, the launch was informed by changing global consumer behaviour.
“The launch was inspired by the growing global trend of consumers becoming more health-conscious, alongside a sustained decline in traditional mixer categories.”
Mpofu noted that while health awareness is increasing, consumers still seek beverages suited to social occasions.
The Cape Town event took place at Grand Beach, aligning with the fresh positioning of the new flavour range. The brand outlined its intention to grow within the sparkling beverage category by positioning Schweppes products as suitable for both mixed and standalone consumption.
“There has historically been a reliance on the spirits category, and when that declines, it affects our volumes. We began exploring opportunities to diversify by establishing a straight-drinking category. Globally, people are drinking less alcohol and focusing more on wellness,” Mpofu explained.
Partnerships formed a key part of the rollout strategy. The collaboration with J Something and Coco was described as aligned with the brand’s objectives, particularly given their involvement in the hospitality space through their restaurant, Artistry.
“They complemented what we were aiming to achieve. Their focus on reviving classics aligned with our approach, and they were able to experiment with the flavours to create menu pairings for the brunch setting,” Mpofu added.
Guests selected from a menu inspired by the flavour range. Starter options included yellowfin tuna with pineapple elements. A steak main course was also served. The menu aimed to reflect the flavour profiles of the beverages.
The flavours were initially introduced at Marble Circus, supported by a large-scale brand activation. Further consumer engagement is planned through product trials at malls, events, and festivals across South Africa.
Among the range, Pineapple & Coconut was positioned as suitable for standalone consumption over ice. The brand also indicated plans to expand the Schweppes portfolio in future, including the introduction of sugar-free variants.
