The Russian soft drinks market is showing a pronounced trend toward premiumization and functionality. Manufacturers are focusing on products that deliver additional health benefits or offer a complex flavor profile. In particular, Loom vitamin water has appeared in retail, containing active ingredients that help control appetite and manage weight.

At the same time, major industry players are experimenting with flavors and packaging in traditional categories:

• The Abrau-Durso company has introduced its grape water “4 Vody” in a new aluminum can format instead of glass.

• The Laimon Fresh brand has launched a highly carbonated beverage featuring an unusual combination of kola nut, grape, and mountain herbs.

China’s soft drinks industry and functional ingredients sector (herbal extracts, vitamin premixes, natural sugar substitutes) are significantly ahead of many markets. Chinese manufacturers can offer Russian brands both ready-made innovative canned beverages and a high-quality raw material base for creating functional products, the demand for which is rapidly increasing in Russia amid the healthy lifestyle trend.