Dear Iced Tea, Why So Popular?

Dear Iced Tea, we need to have a chat. It seems you’re on a tear and not just any tear — a 32% year-on-year increase in searches! Our tracking of 6,037 Google keywords reveals that in 2022, you had just over 134,000 searches, but by 2026, you’re projected to reach a whopping 198,126. That’s quite the glow-up, even for a drink that’s long been a hot summer staple!

What really stands out is your trajectory. Looking at the numbers, we see a slow yet unstoppable rise across various flavors. Lemon iced tea seems to be leading the charge, captivating consumers and holding a solid grip on the market. In 2026, we expect lemon varieties to drive a significant portion of those searches, possibly due to the rise of local brands such as Lipton and Ceylon Tea. Customers are clearly searching for refreshing options that satisfy their thirst with a sweet twist.

We can’t ignore the other contenders either. Peach iced tea is making waves and is forecasted to join mainstream popularity within the next year. While lemon iced tea takes the crown, peach is certainly gaining traction. Given this data, it’s fair to say that if you’re not paying attention to iced tea, you might as well be sipping hot water — and we all know that’s a poor choice.

Data from PartyTrends chart
RegionValueYoYVerdict
2022134,585—Chasing
2023139,410—Chasing
2024159,200—Chasing
2025167,790—Chasing
2026198,126—Chasing
Headline from the data

Iced Tea peaked at ~198,126 annual searches in 2026 (+18% vs 2025). 2026 is tracking ~198,126 (projected full year).

The Iced Tea Market: A Refreshing Change

So, what does this sharp increase in iced tea searches mean for the South African market? For one, it signals a movement towards healthier beverage options. With rising awareness of health and wellness, consumers are increasingly looking for alternatives to sugary sodas. Iced tea presents a light and refreshing option that can be enjoyed year-round, not just during summer months. Brands like Nestlé and Coca-Cola are already on this train, pushing their ready-to-drink iced tea products across national retailers such as Pick n Pay and Checkers.

Geographically, Gauteng, with its large population, leads the iced tea search game, but the Western Cape is catching up. The interest in lemons and peaches among consumers from Cape Town to Johannesburg indicates regional preferences that can be leveraged by retailers. Notably, the trends are also reflective of seasonal spikes, with searches increasing just before the festive season in December. This suggests an opportunity for brands to ramp up marketing efforts during this time, especially with the December holidays being a peak time for social gatherings.

134585
2022
leader
139410
2023
challenger
Yearly share
2022
16.8%
2023
17.4%
2024
19.9%
2025
21%
2026
24.8%
Key takeaways
  • Winner: See chart
  • Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths — lead retail channels
  • Source: PartyTrends Google Keyword Planner, Jun 2022–May 2026

What South African Consumers Want

The South African consumer landscape is evolving, especially concerning beverage choices, and iced tea is at the forefront of this transformation. The data reveals distinct generational shifts, with younger consumers increasingly gravitating towards iced tea over traditional sugary drinks. This demographic is not only health-conscious but also adventurous, seeking flavors beyond the classic options. The rise in searches for peach iced tea points to a willingness to experiment with new tastes, showing that consumers are ready to switch it up.

Furthermore, the disparity in search behavior between suburban and township shoppers also tells an interesting story. While urban centers see a significant uptake of premium brands available in stores like Woolworths, township areas are still warming up to the idea. Delivery platforms like Mr D and Uber Eats provide an interesting avenue as they expand their offerings to include iced tea, catering to a growing demand.

Ultimately, the data paints a portrait of a consumer who is not just thirsty for iced tea but is actively on a quest for new and refreshing experiences. The rise in searches indicates intent — the intent to explore, to refresh, and to enjoy something a little sweeter without the guilt.

What retailers should do

Now, onto your Monday morning stock list, retailers. With the surge in iced tea searches, it’s time to curate your shelves to cater to this trend. Start by ensuring you have popular SKUs like Lipton’s Lemon Iced Tea and Nestea’s Peach Iced Tea prominently displayed. These brands have proven to resonate well with consumers and are likely to drive foot traffic. Further, consider introducing smaller, single-serve options to appeal to younger consumers who prefer grabbing a quick refreshment on the go.

Don’t overlook local brands that are gaining popularity, such as BOS Ice Tea, which offers a more health-conscious, organic alternative. Highlighting local products will not only diversify your selection but also cater to the growing trend of supporting homegrown businesses. Spar and Tops at Spar should lean into this trend by featuring seasonal flavors and limited-edition releases that excite consumers and encourage impulse buys. This could be the perfect opportunity to bundle these iced teas with snacks, driving sales further during peak months.

In summary, iced tea is not just another drink; it’s a burgeoning category that retailers must embrace. Curating a well-rounded selection will cater to current trends and ensure your stores remain the go-to destination for refreshment.

Retail action — stock this
Pick n PayCheckersShopriteWoolworths
iced teaParty CityAce Party SuppliesBalloon Emporium