Some years back, I started noticing a trend at my local coffee shop. More people were ordering their caffeinated drinks iced. In the middle of winter. When temperatures barely made it above freezing. What I thought was just a passing fad has now proven to be a member of the mainstream. And it’s not just coffee that’s chilled out. Cold beverages of all kinds are, well, hot.

By embracing challenges in innovative ways, the bar segment continues to deliver winning results.

The beverage industry shows no sign of slowing down. Here are three companies making an impact.

First in a four-part series, FE&S breaks down the newest beverage trends, starting with an overview of where the industry is today and where it might be in the near future. We hope you’ve come thirsty.