A beverage is simply a liquid intended for consumption. In addition to their primary function of fulfilling thirst, beverages also play important social roles in modern society. Common examples of beverages include juice, milk, water and tea. Traditionally hot beverages such as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate have been the chief source of warmth for people throughout the Mediterranean and Middle East. However, with the advent of modern science and the ability to produce various beverages from easily-convenient resources, beverage options have expanded to include fruit juices, fruit wines and cordial, tea and other herbs and spices, liqueurs, and even water.

The beverage business has experienced a phenomenal boom over the past decade as more people continue to realize the convenience, pleasure and social benefits of consuming such beverages. As beverage demand increases, the beverage industry has expanded into new markets such as baby drinks and diet sodas, resulting in significant profits for beverage manufacturers. Many beverage companies sell primarily in department stores, but there are also a growing number of beverage retailers that are starting to venture into the internet world. One reason the beverage industry has flourished over the past decade is the wide variety of beverages that are available both domestically and internationally. Some of the most popular international beverages are:

These beverage giants have created massive market opportunities for consumers. Two main beverage trends have resulted in millions of dollars in additional sales over the past two years alone. First, consumers have discovered an increasing number of health benefits from consuming fresh fruit juices and naturalized juices (i.e. apple juice, cranberry juice etc.). Second, more individuals are enjoying the convenience and taste of a freshly prepared beverage such as iced tea, cold beverages such as iced tea or iced coffee, sports drinks, energy drinks and premium blended teas.