Glassware used in dinnerware settings is generally classified as “glassware” and is used to describe the drinking vessels for a table. Additionally, the terminology is used to describe objects made of glass. In the restaurant industry, glassware generally refers to any drinking container, even if made from plastic materials such as polycarbonate or polystyrene.
Most retailers today have four types of glassware in their product lines, specifically:
Barware – Beer Mugs and Jugs
Glass: elegant forms of glassware such as carafes and flutes.
Everyday Glassware: The most common glass shapes used for beer, iced tea, juice, or water
Glasses – champagne and wine glasses
Whether a person chooses to mix different types of glassware or buy matching sets is purely a matter of individual taste. Either way, there is no hard and fast rule about mixing or not mixing glassware in your collection. Depending on the types of drinks and food you plan to serve, glassware is available for every occasion. Being aware of each type of glassware you need is paramount when selecting the type of glassware you want for your table.
Glassware Market Trends
Just like any other consumer industry, there are also certain market trends to watch out for in the glassware industry. Currently, the following 4 trends are evident:
* Cocktail glasses, whether the classic version or vintage cocktail shakers, are gaining popularity again. These are used to set the mood and add a sense of glamor that makes enjoying a drink feel more like a festive event or occasion.
* Cut glass made in the 1930s is still an excellent buy for collectors. It’s not uncommon to find sets in styles similar to today’s collections. Due to the fact that it’s more often secondhand rather than antique, it won’t carry the overly inflated price tag that is attached to vintage glassware.
* Mixing more modern styles with older types is an increasingly popular trend. For example, the industry has seen an increase in the purchase of champagne flutes, both the more modern ones and those made in the 1950s. People typically only bought champagne flutes in the past.
* The huge red wine glasses that were prevalent everywhere several years ago are no longer as popular as they once were. People are starting to realize that they can finish off a bottle of expensive champagne or wine by filling up a couple of these. In addition, the amount of alcohol an individual can consume without being affected is also taken into account. The smaller glasses are gaining popularity once again.
Common types of glassware
Although there are several schools of thought on the different categories of glassware, the following is a list of the 7 most common categories in the industry today:
beer glassware
Cups of coffee
Glasses
shot glasses
glasses
Glasses
Wine glasses
Finally, be aware of the fact that not all glassware is dishwasher safe and should only be hand washed for proper care.