There are few beverages that say “summer” quite like a tall glass of iced tea. Crisp, refreshing and endlessly customizable, iced tea has been a warm-weather staple for generations. Whether it’s enjoyed alongside a backyard barbecue, a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner on the patio, iced tea is a drink that never seems to go out of style.
What gives iced tea it’s staying power?
For starters, it’s incredibly refreshing. When temperatures climb, guests look for beverages that help them cool down without feeling overly heavy or sweet. Iced tea delivers a clean, thirst-quenching experience that’s equally satisfying on its own or paired with a meal.
Another reason for its lasting popularity is versatility. Black, green, herbal and fruit-infused teas each offer unique flavor profiles, giving operators the flexibility to appeal to a wide range of tastes. Guests can enjoy a classic unsweetened black tea, opt for a lightly sweetened variety or try seasonal flavors featuring peach, citrus, berries or tropical fruits. The possibilities are endless.
Today’s consumers also appreciate choice. Many are looking for beverages with less sugar than traditional soft drinks, and unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced tea provides a refreshing alternative. It’s also easy to customize with fresh fruit, herbs or flavored syrups, allowing operators to create signature beverages that stand out without adding unnecessary complexity.
Menu Benefits
For foodservice operators, iced tea offers benefits well beyond just guest satisfaction. One of the most cost-effective and profitable items on the menu, iced tea is inexpensive to brew, can be prepared in batches and deliver strong margins. Not to mention, it’s simple to make and serve, helping streamline operations during busy summer rushes.
Its versatility creates opportunities to increase check averages as well. A few simple ingredients can transform a classic iced tea into a limited-time offering that keeps guests coming back throughout the season. Seasonal iced teas, flavored refreshers, tea lemonades, mocktails and cocktails all start with the same quality tea base after all.
Iced tea also complements nearly every menu. It pairs naturally with barbecue, sandwiches, salads, burgers and desserts, making it an easy recommendation for guests regardless of the occasion.
Perhaps most important though, is the fact that iced tea appeals to virtually every generation. From guests who have enjoyed it for decades to younger consumers seeking fresh flavors and customizable beverages, iced tea continues to meet changing preferences while remaining comfortably familiar.
As summer traffic picks up, offering a quality iced tea program is an easy way to deliver the refreshment guests crave while creating new opportunities for revenue and menu innovation.
Ready to make iced tea standout on your menu this season? Speak with a Farmer Brothers rep today to learn how our premium tea solutions can help you serve refreshing beverages your guest will come back for all summer long.