| This article is sponsored by our partner, Monin Americas. |
Energy drinks are gaining traction in coffee shops, but gone are the days of defaulting to canned energy drinks with questionable ingredients. A new class of energy concentrates offers coffee shops greater workflow flexibility, more drink creativity, and the ability to tap into the growing demand for on-premise energy beverage options. 54% of consumers now say they are interested in on-premise energy beverages, and sales for energy beverages are up 73% over the last five years.
Monin is entering the space with its new Brilliance Natural Energy™ line, a range of concentrates infused with energizing ingredients that can be used to extend a coffee shop’s non-coffee menu. Monin is a flavor and syrup company that has always been ahead of the curve with its innovative product launches, including its recent Matcha Green Tea Concentrate and Ube Syrup.
The new line of nine concentrates gets its energizing effects from Coffeeberry Energy (made from coffee cherry), green coffee extract, L-Theanine, vitamin B12, and guarana.
We spoke with Monin’s beverage innovation team to learn how Brilliance is reshaping the energy drink landscape for coffee shops—and why now is the perfect time for cafes to enter the growing energy drink category.
What inspired Monin to get into the energy product game?
Monin Brilliance Energy was created to meet the needs of today’s cafes and foodservice operators. This new line simplifies beverage prep while delivering natural energy, vibrant natural color, and bold, fruit-forward flavor all in one easy-to-use bottle. We designed Brilliance exclusively for on-premise use and love how it empowers baristas and staff to quickly craft refreshing iced energy drinks—all they have to do is simply add water or club soda.
Unlike canned energy drinks or synthetic mixes, Brilliance offers flexibility, flavor variety, and eye-catching presentation—perfect for meeting customer demand for functional, energizing beverages without adding complexity behind the bar.
Coffeeberry Energy is a key ingredient in the Brilliance Energy line. Can you tell us what that is and why it’s important?
Coffeeberry is a foundational ingredient in the Monin Brilliance Natural Energy line, and for good reason. Coffeeberry is a natural caffeine source derived from the whole fruit of the coffee plant, including the often-discarded coffee cherry.
How does Coffeeberry work with the other ingredients in Monin Brilliance Energy?
Monin Brilliance Energy features a smart blend of natural ingredients that work together to deliver clean, sustained energy. Coffeeberry Energy and green coffee extract provide a natural caffeine boost, while L-theanine can promote calm and focus, and reduce the jitters often associated with caffeine.
Guarana adds a slow-release energy effect, helping extend alertness; and vitamin B12 supports the body’s energy production at the cellular level. Together, these ingredients create a balanced, wellness-forward energy experience perfect for today’s mindful consumers.
What are some creative ways coffee shops can use Brilliance?
Brilliance opens up endless possibilities for coffee shops looking to expand their menu beyond traditional espresso-based drinks. Baristas can create energizing refreshers by combining Brilliance with still or sparkling water, or craft unique mocktails using herbal teas or tropical juices as mixers.
Brilliance also pairs well with functional add-ons like collagen, or coconut water, turning a simple drink into a wellness-forward menu star. For busy mornings or afternoon slumps, cafes can even offer grab-and-go energy refreshers that are pre-mixed and chilled.
How can cafes educate customers on energy-based drinks when rolling them out on their menus?
It all starts with storytelling. Use menu descriptions, table tents, and digital signage to spotlight the signature flavors and functional benefits, like caffeine derived from familiar ingredients you can pronounce. Staff education is equally important, so equip baristas with clear, conversational talking points that explain how Brilliance stands out from traditional canned energy drinks. To spark interest, consider offering sampler flights or limited-time specials that showcase the variety and versatility of the lineup.
Where do you see the energy-based beverage trend going for coffee shops?
We’re seeing energy drinks take on a whole new role in cafes. More guests are looking for functional, better-for-you options and that’s causing a shift away from canned energy drinks toward something more customizable and craft-inspired.
When people go to a coffee shop, it’s not always about the caffeine buzz anymore; people want drinks that support focus, hydration, and even mood. That opens the door for cafes to really own this growing category. With Brilliance Natural Energy, operators have a creative, flexible tool to meet that demand and offer something fresh, functional, and full of flavor.
What operational advantages does Brilliance offer compared to other energy drink solutions?
The simplicity is game-changing. With just two pumps into sparkling water, you get 80 mg of caffeine and a visually stunning drink that’s ready to serve. There’s no blending, no complicated recipes, and no need for specialized equipment.
The concentrates have an 18-month shelf life and come in both 64-oz bottles for high-volume operations and 50mL bottles for sampling or lower-volume needs. Plus, with nine flavors, including three sugar-free options, operators can offer variety without inventory complexity.
Sponsored by MONIN AMERICAS
Monin is the preferred flavor and syrup supplier for thousands of coffee shops, restaurants, and bars in North America, bringing innovative beverage solutions to foodservice operators worldwide.
