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From blueberry pureed drinks to zodiac-inspired lattes, Aramark Collegiate Hospitality is enhancing the beverage experience on college campuses by teaming up with students, businesses, and campus communities to craft creative, on trend drinks for students to enjoy. College beverage trends are increasingly driven by Gen Z—the dominant college-age demographic—seeking personalization, health benefits, and social experiences.
According to the latest CampusPulse insights—Aramark Collegiate Hospitality’s research and analytics platform—today’s college students continue to seek food experiences beyond the familiar.
Non-alcoholic alternatives, known as mocktails or zero-proof cocktails, are leading the charge, offering students a way to socialize without compromising wellness goals as 49% of Gen Z consumers state that cutting back on alcohol is important to them, according to Datassential. Customizable options like dirty sodas, which blend sodas with cream, syrups, and add-ins, meet their demand for indulgent, on-trend drinks, with generational interest climbing to 48% in 2025. Functional beverages featuring probiotics, protein, and adaptogens are also gaining momentum, while cold foam creations deliver both visual appeal and flavor innovation, according to Datassential.
"Viral social media content has amplified consumer awareness around these novel beverages,” said Karen Parker, Aramark Collegiate Hospitality Chief Marketing Officer. “Collectively, these trends highlight the need for beverage offerings that are customizable, health-conscious, and socially shareable.”
Old Dominion University
At Old Dominion University, the “Brew Room” has become a popular feature at Broderick Dining Commons on campus. One standout item is the “Blue Reign”—a mix of house-made blueberry purée and lemonade, garnished with fresh blueberries and a lemon wedge. Inspired by ODU’s “Reign On” spirit, it’s become a regular favorite during “mocktail hour”.
Zodiac Drink Series
At select schools in Pennsylvania, Aramark Collegiate Hospitality is looking to the stars with its “Zodiac Drink Series”. Inspired by the various astrological signs, students had the chance to first try the Virgo Matcha Latte—a blend of matcha, vanilla, and honey—designed to reflect Virgo’s detail-oriented nature. The series continued with the Lavender Berry Latte, Scorpio Dark Chocolate Mocha, and the Sagittarius Spiced Chai Latte served at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock University, and Susquehanna University.
California State University, Sacramento
At California State University, Sacramento, Hornet Hospitality partners with Sac State Sustainability to bring campus‑grown herbs from the CapRadio Garden into the Dining Commons. The collaboration inspired signature mocktails and infused water blends made with seasonal herbs. Each semester, Hornet Hospitality hosts mocktail and infused water events that highlight these ingredients, giving students an engaging and flavorful way to learn about healthy hydration, garden stewardship, sustainable food systems, and how mindful choices support their campus community.
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DRIPS by Pepsi™
During the Fall 2025 semester, Aramark teamed up with PepsiCo to sample DRIPS by Pepsi™, bringing customizable, elevated beverage experiences to five select campuses including Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg, Delaware Valley University, West Chester University, Saint Joseph’s University, and the University of Delaware. During the pop-up events, students could try two exclusive drinks:
- Tropicana® Cotton Candy Lemonade
- Pepsi® Zero Sugar Fluffy Cherry Caramel
“Today’s students are highly attuned to trends and experiences, and at Aramark Collegiate Hospitality, we’re listening and responding,” said Theresa Butler, Vice President of Student Experience. “From partnering with student entrepreneurs to co-creating drinks that reflect campus culture, we’re always exploring ways to make dining more personal, engaging, and memorable.”
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