Why the 98mm Format Has Become the Standard for Modern Cold Beverage Programs
As beverage programs continue evolving, operators are looking for ways to simplify operations without sacrificing customer experience.
One packaging format has quietly emerged as a favorite across coffee chains, convenience stores, QSRs, dirty soda concepts, smoothie shops, and specialty beverage brands alike: the 98mm cold beverage platform.
But why has this format become so widely adopted?
The answer goes beyond lid design. It comes down to versatility, presentation, and operational efficiency.
One Platform, Multiple Beverage Categories
Today's beverage menus are more diverse than ever.
Many operators now serve a mix of:
Iced Coffee
Cold Brew
Lemonades
Refreshers
Energy Drinks
Dirty Sodas
Smoothies
Specialty Seasonal Beverages
Instead of managing multiple lid sizes across different beverage categories, many operators are standardizing around 98mm cups and lids to streamline inventory and simplify operations. Similar 98mm PET cold-beverage lid systems are widely used across multiple beverage sizes because they provide compatibility and operational flexibility.
The result?
Fewer SKUs, simplified ordering, and a more consistent customer experience.
The Beverage Is Part of the Marketing
Consumers increasingly purchase beverages based on visual appeal.
Before the first sip, customers see:
The beverage color
Layering
Toppings
Foam
Fruit inclusions
Branding
Clear PET packaging has become popular because it allows the beverage itself to become part of the presentation. PET is valued across the beverage industry for its exceptional clarity and ability to showcase the product inside.
Whether it's a cold brew, refresher, or signature energy drink, presentation matters.
The right lid should enhance that experience, not hide it.
Designed for Today's On-the-Go Consumer
Convenience remains one of the biggest drivers of beverage purchasing decisions.
Customers want beverages that are:
✔ Easy to carry
✔ Easy to drink
✔ Compatible with drive-thru and mobile ordering
✔ Suitable for commuting, offices, and everyday routines
Strawless sip-through designs continue gaining adoption because they offer a simple drinking experience while reducing reliance on separate accessories. Strawless lid formats have become increasingly common throughout the cold beverage market as operators look for efficient and consumer-friendly solutions.
For operators, that can mean fewer components to manage while maintaining a premium customer experience.
Flexibility Matters More Than Ever
One of the biggest challenges facing growing beverage brands is balancing innovation with operational consistency.
Limited-time offers, seasonal beverages, and menu experimentation all require packaging that can adapt quickly.
The 98mm format supports a wide range of beverage applications, making it a practical solution for operators launching new products without completely reworking their packaging strategy. Similar 98mm PET lid systems are commonly used across 12 oz, 16 oz, 20 oz, and 24 oz cold beverage cups.
When beverage menus change, packaging shouldn't become the bottleneck.
Why We Developed the LidWorks 98mm Strawless PET Lid
At LidWorks, we designed our 98mm Strawless PET Lid to support the needs of modern beverage programs.
Key features include:
Crystal-clear PET construction
Strawless sip-through design
Strong lid retention
Compatibility with popular cold beverage applications
Made in the USA
Custom branding opportunities
More importantly, it was designed to help operators deliver a consistent customer experience across a wide range of beverage categories.
Because today's beverage programs need more than a lid.
They need a packaging platform that can scale alongside the business.
Looking Ahead
The fastest-growing beverage brands aren't winning because they offer one drink.
They're winning because they create flexible beverage platforms that allow innovation, customization, and consistency at scale.
The same principle applies to packaging.
As menus evolve and customer expectations continue rising, versatile solutions like the 98mm cold beverage platform will remain an important part of modern beverage operations.
Ready to Learn More?
Explore the LidWorks 98mm Strawless PET Lid and discover how it can support your beverage program.