Funkin taps into draught cocktail trend

by Owen Bellwood

Fruit purée and syrup manufacturer Funkin has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a range of kegged cocktails for the on-trade.

Funkin's new range of premium batched draught cocktails includes four of the most iconic mixed drinks, the Pornstar Martini, Piña Colada, Pink Grapefruit Gin Collins, and the Mojito. Andrew King, managing director of Funkin, said: “This is an exciting launch for Funkin, as we continue to provide customers with products designed to deliver better service as well as great tasting, quality cocktails. "This innovation is a smart solution for operators looking to capitalise on the cocktail opportunity.” The new kegged cocktails follow the brand's release of a range of pre-made cocktail mixers last year, which contained all the ingredients of classic cocktails but without the alcohol. Funkin innovation champion Aiste Valiukaite said: “Having worked in a variety of outlets throughout my career, the draught cocktail concept is one that allows bartenders to serve quality cocktails in a flash, giving them time to engage with the customer and enhance their overall experience. "Funkin’s range offers operators the opportunity to serve good quality, great tasting cocktails consistently.” The range of draught cocktails will be on display for the first time at UK pub industry trade show Pub18 next week. Last year, Funkin announced plans to tap into the Dutch cocktail market through its distribution deal with liqueur producer De Kuyper Royal Distillers.