Europe Carbonated Soft Drinks Market Size to Grow at 4.86% CAGR from 2025 to 2030

Europe Carbonated Soft Drinks Market Size  (2025-2030)

As per our research report, the Europe Carbonated Soft Drinks Market size is estimated to be growing at a CAGR of 4.86% from 2025 to 2030.

Carbonated soft drinks (CSDs) are beverages that do not contain alcohol and are formulated using carbonated water, flavoring agents, and various sweeteners, which may be either natural sugars or synthetic alternatives. These beverages are defined by the infusion of carbon dioxide gas, which imparts their signature fizziness.

Vitamin C, often in the form of ascorbic acid powder, is frequently added to fruit juices, flavored drinks, carbonated beverages, and powdered drink formulations. It is valued for its role in enhancing the nutritional profile of these products after they have been processed, making it a vital nutrient in beverage formulation.

Ascorbic acid serves as the main antioxidant component in soft drink formulations. The interaction of carbon dioxide molecules in these beverages primarily involves electrostatic forces at the molecular level.

The expansion of the carbonated soft drinks market in Europe is primarily driven by a rising consumer preference for low-calorie and sugar-free beverages. Leading companies, such as Coca-Cola, have identified these product segments as key contributors to market growth in Western Europe. Despite this upward trend, a significant challenge arises from the adverse effects of certain ingredients, such as phosphoric and citric acids—commonly used in sodas containing ascorbic acid—which can hinder calcium absorption. This potential decline in calcium levels poses a notable constraint on market progression within the region.

Carbonated soft drinks incorporating ascorbic acid often contain elevated levels of sugar. Regular consumption of these high-sugar beverages has been associated with chronic health problems, including obesity and diabetes, which frequently result in weight gain. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in the European region, an estimated 60 million people are currently living with diabetes, placing a substantial burden on both individuals and public healthcare systems. Moreover, WHO-Europe reports that the incidence of obesity has tripled across several European nations since the 1980s, with figures continuing to rise at a concerning pace. In light of these health risks, Belgium has introduced a sugar tax on soft drinks, encompassing even those labeled as diet or sugar-free. Such health concerns and policy interventions present considerable obstacles for the European carbonated soft drinks industry.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the food and beverage sector, contributing to marked declines in revenue. During periods of lockdown, widespread closures of retail outlets, including supermarkets and department stores, significantly affected the distribution and sales of carbonated soft drinks. Furthermore, the temporary shutdown of production facilities disrupted supply chains, compounding the negative impact on sales performance.

A growing consumer shift toward low-calorie and sugar-free options continues to gain momentum, largely fueled by increasing health awareness and the prevalence of conditions like obesity and diabetes. Governmental regulations aimed at reducing sugar consumption—such as taxation on sugary beverages and mandatory nutritional labeling—are also playing a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics.

Within Europe, the functional beverage segment is primarily dominated by sports and energy drinks. However, the market also includes a broad range of fortified and health-enhancing beverage options. There is active development of drinks enriched with vitamins and minerals, as well as those formulated with herbal ingredients. Additionally, the market has recently seen the introduction of probiotic fruit beverages aimed at supporting digestive health.

KEY MARKET INSIGHTS:

  • Based on the Type, the diet segment commands the largest share of the market at present, primarily driven by the absence of sugar and calories in diet carbonated soft drinks. Many carbonated beverages include ascorbic acid, and certain studies indicate that substituting traditional sugary sodas with diet variants may contribute to a reduction in fat accumulation within the liver. The increasing availability of diet alternatives for nearly all sugar-sweetened beverages is further supporting the growth and expansion of this segment.
  • Based on the Flavor, Fruit-flavored carbonated beverages are anticipated to record the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the forecast period. Typically crafted with natural sweeteners and available in low- or zero-calorie formulations, these beverages align with consumers’ rising health consciousness. Increasing demand for products containing natural ingredients, along with a growing interest in varied flavor experiences, is expected to propel the popularity of fruit-flavored sodas made with natural sweeteners in the years ahead.
  • Based on the Distribution Channel, Supermarkets and hypermarkets currently hold the leading position in the market, supported by the comprehensive and convenient shopping experience they offer to consumers. Carbonated soft drinks that include ascorbic acid are widely available across various product categories, including low-calorie and no-sugar alternatives. Meanwhile, the online retail segment is expected to register the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) during the forecast period. The growth of this channel is being driven by the convenience of digital shopping, home delivery services, and the ease of accessing carbonated soft drinks containing ascorbic acid through online platforms.
  • Based on the region, Belgium presently accounts for the highest revenue share in the carbonated soft drinks market and is projected to maintain its leadership, largely due to the notably high per capita consumption—averaging around 109 liters. This trend is largely driven by the region’s modern lifestyle preferences. Conversely, Germany is expected to achieve the fastest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) throughout the forecast period. This anticipated growth is supported by rising consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable beverage options.
  • Companies playing a leading role in the Europe Carbonated Soft Drinks Market profiled in this report are Coca-Cola Co., Barr (AG) Plc in Soft Drinks and Gerolsteiner Brunnen GmbH & Co KG.

Europe Carbonated Soft Drinks Market Segmentation:

By Type:

  • Standard
  • Diet
  • Fruit Flavored Carbonates
  • Others

By Flavor:

  • Cola
  • Lime
  • Orange
  • Others

By Distribution Channel:

  • Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
  • Convenience Stores
  • Online Stores
  • Specialist Stores
  • Others

By region:

  • Germany
  • United Kingdom
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe

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