Beverages

The market for beverages is broadly divided in many countries into those products that are bought to quench thirst, and those that are consumed on special occasions including festivals. The former group are mostly nonalcoholic and include tea, coffee, and soft drinks (including juices, nectars, and carbonated drinks).

In some countries these products are also used on social occasions, whereas in other areas alcoholic beverages are preferred (although soft drinks are also usually available). In most countries, the market for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks is specific with regard to religious and cultural taboos.

The manufacture of beverages is one of the most competitive areas in which small businesses can operate. Fruit drinks are the most accessible product (in technological terms) for small producers, but even with these there is strong competition from carbonated soft drinks, and it is necessary to establish that there is a demand for a certain drink before production starts.