# Sonic Drive-In, the original beverage trend-setter

> Sonic Drive-In leads beverage innovation with customizable drinks and cultural-themed flavors.
- Title: Sonic Drive-In, the original beverage trend-setter | Shortify
- Summary: Sonic Drive-In leads beverage innovation with customizable drinks and cultural-themed flavors. Sonic Drive-In offers nearly infinite beverage options…
- Keywords: sonic drive-in, beverage trends, custom drinks, pebble ice, blackout slush float, solar eclipse, 2024 solar eclipse, red white blue slush float, united states 250th anniversary, Nation's Restaurant News
- Source: Nation's Restaurant News — https://nrn.com/beverage-trends/sonic-drive-in-the-original-beverage-trend-setter
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: sonic drive-in, beverage trends, custom drinks, pebble ice, blackout slush float, solar eclipse, 2024 solar eclipse, red white blue slush float, united states 250th anniversary, food, business
## Sonic's beverage innovation
Sonic Drive-In offers nearly infinite beverage options including custom drinks and cultural-themed flavors.
## Custom drink options
Customers can create drinks with syrups, fruit purées, sweet cream, boba, and Nerds candy.
## Pebble ice popularity
Sonic sold almost 78 million pounds of pebble ice in the past 12 months.
## Beverage innovation timeline
Sonic introduced dirty sodas in March 2024 and green-tea-based refreshers in March 2026.
## Cultural-themed drinks
Sonic created the Blackout Slush Float for the 2024 solar eclipse and Red, White & Blue Slush Float for the US 250th anniversary.
## Beverage category management
Ashlee Gustin, director of category management, emphasizes guest customization and cultural relevance.
## Operational integration
Sonic works with operations to ensure new drinks are feasible in the back of house.
## Beverage trends
Sonic leads beverage innovation with custom drinks and cultural-themed flavors.
## Pebble ice sales
Sonic sells pebble ice by the 10-pound bag for 59 cents.
## Beverage customization
Sonic offers drinks with syrups, fruit purées, sweet cream, boba, and Nerds candy.
## Cultural moments
Sonic creates drinks tied to cultural events like the 2024 solar eclipse.
## Beverage innovation
Sonic leads with guest preferences and current trends for unique drink experiences.
## Beverage trends
Sonic's drinks include the Twisted Flamingo and Shark Bite for curated options.
## Key takeaway

Sonic Drive-In offers nearly infinite beverage options including custom drinks and cultural-themed flavors like the Blackout Slush Float for the 2024 solar eclipse.