Cool Summer Drinks to Boost Your Menu

When the temperature rises, so does the demand for refreshing cold drinks. Whether you serve summer desserts, or run an ice cream van, café, or takeaway, offering a range of summer drinks can be a big hit with customers looking to cool off and treat themselves.

At Takeaway Supplies, we stock everything you need to serve up irresistible cold drinks – from slush syrups and milkshake syrups to packaging, straws and cups. Here’s a roundup of popular and profitable drinks to add to your summer menu.

1. Classic Slush Drinks

Slush is a summer staple. It’s colourful, refreshing, and instantly nostalgic. Whether you’re catering for kids or adults, slush drinks are always in demand.

Top flavours to offer:

• Strawberry
• Blue Raspberry
• Cola
• Lemon & Lime
• Tropical Fruits

Want to stand out? Try offering layered slush in clear cups using two flavours. Not only does it look great, but it also gives customers more choice. All you need is a good quality slush syrup, ice, and the right machine.

At Takeaway Supplies, we stock concentrated slush syrups in a variety of flavours – perfect for high-margin drinks with great visual appeal.

2. Thick & Creamy Milkshake

Milkshakes are a year-round favourite, but they really come into their own during summer. They’re sweet, indulgent, and perfect for takeaways or sit-down dessert menus.

Popular milkshake flavours include:

• Vanilla
• Chocolate
• Strawberry
• Banana
• Bubblegum

To take it up a notch, offer deluxe shakes topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, sauces and even mini doughnuts or brownies. Thick milkshakes are easy to prepare using milkshake powder or syrup – just blend with milk and ice for a smooth, creamy finish.

Don’t forget: Packaging matters. Clear dome lids, wide straws, and sturdy cups help create a professional finish and make your shakes Instagram-ready.

3. Iced Coffee & Frappés

Cold coffee drinks aren’t just for hipster cafés anymore – they’re a hit with busy customers looking for a caffeine fix without the heat.

You can offer:

• Iced lattes (espresso over ice with milk)
• Iced mochas (add chocolate syrup)
• Flavoured cold coffees (vanilla, caramel, hazelnut)
• Blended frappés topped with cream

A simple syrup flavouring system and good quality coffee can go a long way. Serve in clear plastic cups with paper straws to keep things eco-conscious and visually appealing.

Pro tip: Offer milk alternatives like oat or almond for customers with dietary preferences.

4. Ice Cream Floats & Soda Floats

Looking for something different to add to your drinks menu? Ice cream floats are making a comeback.

A classic float is made with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Fizzy drink of your choice (cola, lemonade, or even fruit soda)

These are fun, nostalgic, and great for kids and families. They’re simple to make and offer a high markup for minimal prep time.

Try offering a twist with flavoured ice cream or using slush instead of soda for an icy float combo!

5. Frozen Mocktails & Fruit Coolers

Mocktails are on the rise – especially among younger customers and those looking for a more sophisticated non-alcoholic drink.

You can create frozen mocktails using slush syrups blended with ice and topped with fresh fruit, herbs, or soda water.

Ideas include:

• Strawberry & mint cooler
• Tropical mango slush mocktail
• Blue raspberry & lemon fizz

Use branded or colourful cups, garnish with fruit, and you’ve got a premium-looking drink without the alcohol.

How to Stand Out This Summer

To keep your cold drinks flying off the counter, here are some quick tips:

• Use eye-catching packaging: Clear cups, dome lids, and colourful straws make your drinks more appealing.
• Offer customisation: Let customers mix slush flavours or add toppings to milkshakes.
• Upsell: Offer deals like “Add whipped cream for 50p” or “Slush & snack combo.”
• Stay stocked: Don’t run out of the basics – order syrups, powders, cups and accessories in advance.

Stock Up with Takeaway Supplies

At Takeaway Supplies, we support cafés, dessert bars, food trucks, ice cream vans and catering businesses across the UK with quality products, great prices and fast, free delivery.

We offer:

• A wide range of slush syrups, milkshake powders and coffee flavourings
• Food-grade packaging including cups, lids and straws
• Expert advice on choosing the right products for your setup

Whether you’re expanding your summer menu or launching your first slush stand, we’ve got everything you need.

Get Ready for a Cool and Profitable Summer

Cold drinks are more than just a seasonal treat – they’re a chance to boost sales, attract new customers, and offer creative menu options. With the right ingredients and presentation, you can turn a simple slush or milkshake into a showstopper.

Need help choosing supplies for your summer drinks?
Contact our team or browse our summer drinks range online today.