Imported fizzy drinks have become one of the fastest-growing trends in the UK beverage market, especially for takeaways, dessert parlours, chicken shops, convenience retailers and cafés looking to offer something unique. From EU Coca-Cola, imported Pepsi varieties, and niche fruit-flavoured cans to bold tropical fizzy drinks, customers are actively seeking flavours and formats they can’t easily find in major supermarkets. 

But before stocking imported cans, UK retailers need to understand the demand, regulations, sourcing challenges, pricing, and storage considerations that come with these products. 

Why Imported Fizzy Drinks are in High Demand? 

Today’s customers want choice. Imported drinks offer: 

  • Unique flavours and recipes not sold in UK supermarkets. 
  • Higher carbonation levels, often preferred in EU-produced cans. 
  • Premium branding, giving your menu a competitive edge. 
  • Greater variety, keeping customers returning for limited-edition flavours. 
  • Better pairing options with spicy, fried or grilled foods. 
  • A sense of “exclusivity”, especially with EU Coca-Cola, EU Pepsi and Mirinda cans. 

If you operate a takeaway or fast-food business, you already know that variety drives repeat visits. Imported fizzy drinks deliver that variety effortlessly. 

Understanding the Differences: UK vs Imported Fizzy Drinks 

Here are the key reasons customers prefer imported cans: 

1. Different Sweetener Formulas 

Some imported cans use sugar instead of aspartame or UK-standard sweeteners. This leads to: 

  • A richer taste 
  • Fuller flavour profile 
  • Stronger repeat demand 

2. Higher Carbonation Levels 

Customers often describe imported EU cans as “fizzier,” making them feel more premium. 

3. Unique Flavour Profiles 

Brands such as Mirinda, Exotic Fanta flavours, and Pineapple / Strawberry sodas offer a strong competitive advantage. 

You can highlight these differences by stocking a curated import selection. 

For example: 

How UK Retailers Can Choose the Right Imported Drinks to Stock? 

Choosing which imported options to stock depends on your business type. 

1. Fast-Food & Fried Chicken Shops

These venues benefit from bold, fruity imported flavours. 

Stock recommendations: 

  • Mirinda variants (Strawberry, Orange) 
  • EU Pepsi 
  • EU 7UP 
  • Imported Fanta Flavours 

2. Pizzerias & Italian Takeaways

Customers prefer clean, crisp imports that balance cheese and rich toppings. 

Best fit: 

  • Imported Coca-Cola 
  • Imported Pepsi 
  • Sparkling water (imported or premium) 

3. Dessert Parlours & Milkshake Bars

These businesses thrive with bright, fruity imported cans. 

Top performers: 

  • Imported Fanta 
  • Mirinda 
  • Grape / Berry sodas 
  • Pineapple fizzy drinks 

These flavours pair perfectly with waffles, pancakes and ice cream. 

4. Convenience Retailers & Mini-Marts

Customers want variety + recognisable brands, so cover both. 

Recommended mix: 

  • EU Coke 
  • EU Pepsi 
  • Mirinda 
  • Tropical cans 
  • Lemon-lime imports 

The more variety you offer, the higher your basket value. 

Regulations Retailers Must Know When Buying Imported Drinks 

If you’re sourcing through a trusted UK wholesaler like Magna Foodservice, most regulatory concerns are already handled, but it’s still important to understand the basics. 

1. Labelling Requirements

Imported cans must include: 

  • Ingredients 
  • Allergens 
  • Nutritional information 
  • English translation (if not originally in English) 

2. Sugar Taxes (Soft Drinks Industry Levy)

Imported drinks fall under UK sugar tax rules. Retailers must account for price differences when setting margins. 

3. Storage Compliance

High-sugar drinks must be kept in cool environments away from heat and direct sunlight. 

For full guidance, see our blog: The Ultimate Drinks Storage & Display Tips for Busy Kitchens 

Where to Source Imported Fizzy Drinks in the UK? 

The safest and most reliable route is to work with a UK-based wholesaler that imports drinks legally, stores them correctly, and offers competitive pricing. 

Magna Foodservice offers one of the strongest ranges in the UK, including: 

✔ Imported Coca-Cola cans

✔ Imported Pepsi cans

✔ Imported 7UP

✔ Mirinda (Strawberry, Orange)

✔ Tropical fizzy drinks 

Browse the full range: Fizzy Drinks Category or explore all Soft Drinks 

Margin Considerations: Are Imported Drinks Worth It? 

The short answer: yes, if you price correctly. 

Why are imported drinks profitable? 

  • Customers will happily pay more for imported cans. 
  • Strong repeat buying behaviour. 
  • Higher perceived value. 
  • Works exceptionally well for meal deals. 

To calculate margins accurately, see: Boost Your Profits: Calculating Drink Margins for Foodservice Businesses 

Tips for Stocking Imported Fizzy Drinks Effectively 

1. Offer a small but diverse mix

Start with 5-7 SKUs: 

  • 1 cola 
  • 1 lemon-lime 
  • 2 orange/tropical 
  • 1 berry/grape 
  • 1 premium import (Coca-Cola EU or Pepsi EU) 

2. Use meal deals to increase volume

Imported drinks elevate your combo value. 

3. Monitor peak selling times

Imported drinks often outperform local drinks in: 

  • Evenings 
  • Weekends 
  • Hot weather 
  • Student-heavy areas 

4. Keep a rotating “special import”

This keeps your menu exciting. 

Conclusion 

Imported fizzy drinks offer UK retailers a powerful way to stand out, boost profits and keep customers returning for brands and flavours they can’t find everywhere else. With the right sourcing strategy and a trusted wholesaler like Magna Foodservice, you can confidently stock high-demand imported drinks that elevate your menu and increase sales.