New Confectionery and Beverage Products Debuted in Vegas
Candy and soda brands unveiled upcoming product lines at the 2026 NACS Show, with store arrivals starting in 2027.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Consumer Goods
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Do you typically try new convenience store snack or beverage products when they are released?
Local shoppers and convenience store operators can expect new snack and drink options to hit shelves after manufacturers showcased their latest innovations at the NACS Show. Over 1,200 exhibitors converged on Las Vegas to demonstrate new candy and beverage lines planned for the 2027 market.
Why it matters
Manufacturers are targeting shifting consumer preferences for multi-sensory textures and trending flavors to drive traffic within the convenience store channel. These product launches represent the industry's attempt to capture shopper interest through sustained innovation in the candy and beverage segments.
The NACS Show hosted 1,200 exhibitors to preview upcoming food innovations. While Mars, Inc. and Ferrara Candy Co. detailed new product designs, specific pricing and distribution density figures for the 2027 launch cycle remain unknown.
The players
Mars, Inc.
The confectionery manufacturer unveiled Skittles Crystals at the industry event.
Keurig Dr Pepper
The beverage company announced plans to release a Dr Pepper Ice Cream Float.
Ferrara Candy Co.
The company introduced Trolli Spicy Crawlers featuring habanero flavors.
The details
Companies used the three-day industry gathering to preview new items including Skittles Crystals, which feature a crystal coating on a gummy base, and Trolli Spicy Crawlers infused with habanero flavors. Keurig Dr Pepper also announced the Dr Pepper Ice Cream Float, planned for release in both canned and 20-oz bottle formats. These products are expected to roll out to the broader retail market throughout 2027, with fountain and frozen formats following in mid-2027.
Timeline
October 7-9, 2026: The NACS Show took place in Las Vegas.
February 2027: Planned retail launch for Dr Pepper Ice Cream Float.
Mid-2027: Release of fountain and frozen beverage formats.
2027: Nationwide launch window for Skittles Crystals.
Beyond the Strip
This wave of new confectionery releases follows the documented industry trend of using multi-sensory and nostalgia-inspired food innovation to drive store traffic. These launches extend that strategy by introducing specific flavor profiles like habanero and ice cream float concepts to convenience shelves.
Residents can look for the new Dr Pepper Ice Cream Float in local convenience stores starting in February 2027. Skittles Crystals and Trolli Spicy Crawlers are scheduled to hit the market later that same year.
The takeaway
Innovation in the candy and soda aisle remains a primary driver for convenience store growth as brands experiment with new flavor profiles. Keep an eye on local shelf space throughout 2027 to see which of these new product lines gain traction in the valley.
Further reading
Find more updates on local retail and product availability in our Consumer Goods section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by FoodBusinessNews.
Live Poll
Do you typically try new convenience store snack or beverage products when they are released?
