Energy Drink Brands Gear Up for Summer With Nostalgic Launches

C4 Energy is “bringing one of the season’s most iconic flavors to shelves with the launch of C4 Performance Energy Pink Lemonade,” a spokesperson for the company told NACS. 

C4 said the limited-time flavor delivers a bright, refreshing taste inspired by lemonade, blending zesty citrus with subtle raspberry notes. C4 Performance Energy Pink Lemonade will be available nationwide for a limited time while supplies last.  

In addition to the seasonal launch, C4 Energy is expanding its summer lineup with two retailer-exclusive flavors:  

• Cherry Cola Performance Energy, exclusive to Casey’s, is “a nostalgic twist on a classic, pairing cola flavor with cherry notes.” 

• Hawaiian Punch Berry Blue Typhoon Performance Energy, exclusive to Circle K, is “A bold, tropical-inspired flavor featuring the familiar taste consumers already love.”  

Monster Energy is kicking off summer 2026 with “bold new flavors, iconic designs and a lineup built to bring people together as the nation celebrates America’s 250th anniversary this Fourth of July,” the company said in a press release sent to NACS. 

The brand is launching its all-new Juice Monster Strawberry Lemonade, a “fruit-forward flavor that ignites the taste buds and is designed to fuel every backyard BBQ, beach day, and fireworks-filled night.” 

The new flavor comes in “all-American design” featuring flag-bearing monster trucks, Lady Liberty and a “jacked George Washington cruising on a throttle-heavy hog.” 

In addition, Monster Energy Ultra Red, White & Blue Razz is now available nationwide in a 16-ounce can. A limited edition slimline 12-ounce will also be available in coolers and on shelves across the country as a summer special.   

Monster is also dropping a 12-can Ultra Liberty Variety Pack inspired by the American flag, featuring Zero Ultra, Punk Punch and Blue Hawaiian. 

Meanwhile, Molson Coors’ ZOA Energy is “entering a new chapter of growth with the launch of its new equity campaign, ‘You Can't Fake This Kind of Energy,’ alongside updated packaging and the introduction of its newest limited-edition flavor, Shave Ice,” according to a press release. 

The brand said the shift is reinforced by ZOA's refreshed packaging, designed to deliver a more modern, confident look on the shelf. It also “clearly communicates” the brand's energy and electrolyte offering. The updated design will launch this summer, with availability starting as early as June. 

The limited-edition Shave Ice flavor is inspired by the Hawaiian treat and the brand's Polynesian roots. “With a vibrant blue raspberry profile, the new release delivers refreshing, nostalgic taste, while still including electrolytes and the rest of the better-for-you ingredients like B&C vitamins and Camu Camu superfruit.” 

While functional drinks appeal to everyone, they do skew younger, said Chris Costagli, vice president, food and beverage insights, NielsenIQ. According to NIQ data, Gen Z and Millennials are driving 55% of the functional beverage spend. Read more about functional beverages in the May 2026 issue of NACS Magazine feature “Beverages With Benefits.”