By 2025, cannabis beverages are far from being experimental products – they are among the fastest growing categories of the beverage market and a significant one in the UK market. Whether CBD-infused teas or (where it is legal) THC-based mocktails, beverages offer an inconspicuous and refreshing way to consume cannabis.

Why Cannabis Beverages?

1. Discreet: No smoke and no odor
2. Socially acceptable: Easier to drink in social settings than smoking
3. Wellness: CBD beverages marketed for calm, balance
4. Innovative: Flavors and branding on par with craft beer or kombucha

Market Insights

THC beverage is still in its infancy in the UK, but we see international markets where cannabis beverages may be a likely future market.

The Challenges

• Legal barriers for THC-based beverage offerings
• Need the industry to standardize accurate dosing for health and safety
• Existing beverage industries

Cultural Significance

The cannabis development of beverages in the UK is beyond consumer insight; it is generational. Generation Z increasingly consume beverages that are alternative to alcohol and greater wellness-focused. To them, a CBD soda makes more sense than pint of lager.

From a cultural significance perspective, social rituals could be changed. Instead of going out to a pub for a beer, they may be sipping cans of refreshing sparkling cannabis water. These minor cultural shifts indicate the opportunity of beverage products are landing the market and changing the story of social leisure in the UK.

Outlook

Analysts suggest the UK cannabis beverage category will steadily increase, especially CBD wellness beverage segments. If regulations were to change, the THC beverage category would ignite another frontier, potentially blending leisure and lifestyle into one.