The functional wellness drinks category offers business opportunities worth £27 million (€31 million), or an additional £812 per store, to the convenience channel, according to Britvic's latest Soft Drinks Review.
Almost half of respondents (47%) to a survey carried out by the drinks firm, which also formed part of the review, said they will eat more foods to support their immune systems in the future.
In addition, 37% of people are now positively interested in premium soft drinks with added benefits, the study noted.