Lime Venue Portfolio have uncovered a series of trends that could dominate this year’s summer events programme. These trends have been identified as a result of research conducted across the brand’s customer base, in-house chefs and extensive consumer insight surveys.  

The trends for 2019 summer parties are as follows: 

Custom Signage

A growing trend amongst organisers looking to add a little personality to proceedings. For those tired of the kitsch neon look, consider chalkboards, a floral wall or even customised digital signage.

Alcoholic Popsicles

Alcoholic popsicles are becoming a popular trend and a great way for consumers to satisfy a taste for nostalgia. Boozy enthusiasts have turned this childhood memory into a fun refreshment for summer events. From Bellini’s to gin cocktail concoctions, it’s a new way to refresh traditional drinks.

Canned Wine

Set to be one of the biggest trends in 2019 and recently reported in the Telegraph; canned wine is providing consumers with an alternative to binge-drinking with pre-packaged smaller measures. Cans are a lighter alternative to glass which means they’re a more sustainable (and safer) option than bottles.

Expect more of the same in the coming year as brands develop more innovative, environmentally-friendly packaging for our drinks.

Bamboo Straws 

A reusable and eco-alternative to plastic, bamboo straws can be reused in order to cut down on waste. Bamboo straws are completely reusable and biodegradable. 

Mezcal 

Mezcal is the latest spirit trend to hit the UK, with a 48% increase in mezcal cocktail-related searches on Google in the last year. The ‘parent spirit’ of tequila, Mezcal is made from the agave plant, which is native to Mexico. A bartender’s favourite thanks to its smoky flavour and both sweet and savoury notes.

Milkshake IPA

This may not be traditional, but it’s most certainly on trend. A milkshake IPA, and the similar smoothie IPA, are sub-styles of the New England-style IPA. The main ingredient that sets milkshake IPAs apart from other juicy and hazy IPAs is lactose, so this may not be a trend to everyone’s taste!

Sensory Designed Cutlery

Cutlery with a sensory twist is changing the way consumers experience food. Designers are increasingly focused on the sensory design of cutlery and the materials they are made from. Expect to see cutlery made from crystal, ceramic and silicone this year!

VR Experiences 

With many other aspects of events becoming virtual, augmented reality applications are creating new opportunities for the way we experience food. Chefs and event organisers are choosing to use VR and AR to add a new and unique dimension to dining. 

Vegan Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is a popular high-protein fast food snack for people on the go, and the vegetarian and vegan community aren’t sitting this one out. Producers are offering vegan beef jerky in a range of flavours; Sweet Sriracha, Sizzlin’ Cajun, and Bourbon Smoked Black Pepper, to name but a few.

Jenner Carter, head of marketing, Lime Venue Portfolio,commented on the research: “We are constantly finding out new things about consumer eating behaviours that are reflected in delegate expectations at events. Some of these trends are a little far-fetched, but it’s worth taking note if event organisers are looking to do something a bit more on trend!”

Molly Hookings
Author: Molly Hookings

Molly joined the editorial team in March 2019. She has several years’ experience working in broadcast and journalism, as well as marketing and PR. Past experience includes working for the BBC and independent publishing houses. If you have a story you think Molly might be interested in, please email: molly@eventindustrynews.com