News

Sonic launches permanent, customizable hand-crafted soda line

October 28, 2014

Sonic Drive-In today introduced its Splash Hand-Crafted Soda line, which the company calls "guilt-free, artisanal beverages."

According to a news release, the Splash sodas are made to order and start with sparkling, filtered water. Infused layers of real fruit or fruit flavors are then added, including peach, raspberry, blackberry-pineapple, Sunshine Berry (a mix of real strawberries, peach and lemon) and Hawaiian Wave (a blend of mango, real pineapple and lime).

"Our guests are increasingly interested in drinks of a lighter variety, but still want something special when they pull into a Sonic stall or drive-thru – it's why they come to us," VP of Product Innovation, Chef Claes Petersson, said in the release. "We knew we had to continue to bring our consumers bold and original flavors, while balancing sweetness and fizz. As a result, our Splash Hand-Crafted Sodas satisfy the need for something special while still offering guilt-free hydration. Our culinary innovation team really nailed it; we are so proud of the flavors we've created."

The new line of is a permanent addition to the Sonic drink lineup and is completely customizable. The beverages are available for half price during the brand's signature happy hour and Morning Drink Stop.

Sonic follows Starbucks' Fizzio Handcrafted Sodas launch to stay ahead of trend in the specialty beverage category.

Elizabeth Friend, a senior research analyst for marketing research firm Euromonitor, said consumers are moving away from traditional sugary carbonated drinks toward sweet, light and refreshing beverages. Handcrafted sodas, she said, "feel different in a way that feels modern and exciting to consumers."