Exciting coffee trends to look out for
The coffee industry is experiencing a renaissance as the sun starts to shine brighter. With preferences shifting and innovation brewing, coffee lovers can expect some exciting trends to emerge as we transition into spring and summer 2024.
Let’s explore the hottest coffee trends dominating menus and satisfying cravings in the coming months.
Iced coffee is here to stay
As temperatures rise, so does the popularity of iced coffee—a chilled delight that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of consumers. This refreshing beverage, traditionally made from hot espresso poured over ice, allows for a wide range of flavour experiments.
Whether blended with milk or enjoyed black, iced coffee continues to outpace hot drink orders at many cafés, particularly among the Gen Z demographic.
Size matters
The evolution of coffee portion sizes is undeniable. No longer just served in whatever cup is handy, coffee drinkers can choose from a dazzling array of sizes, ranging from tiny espresso shots to colossal servings designed to keep energy levels high throughout the day.
As people chase satisfaction, the trend towards larger and more elaborate coffee beverages seems set to continue.
Premium quality takes the spotlight
In times of economic uncertainty, consumers seek indulgence in their coffee shop experiences. The trend of premiumization, where visual appeal and a sense of luxury drive purchases, is at the forefront in 2024.
Customers want their coffee to be not just a beverage but also a delightful escape, demanding drinks that look fabulous for social media as well.
With many mastering speciality drinks at home during the pandemic, they now crave unique concoctions from baristas that are visually stunning and complex in flavour.
Rising demand for plant-based options
The shift towards plant-based products shows no signs of slowing down. As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, the quest for sustainable coffee alternatives intensifies.
Searches for items like "mushroom coffee," "oat milk latte," and "vegan coffee creamer" are gaining traction, indicating a pivotal shift in consumer preferences towards healthier choices.
The matcha latte movement
Matcha lattes, once a niche offering, are now emerging as a mainstream favourite among coffee consumers.
This vibrant green drink, crafted from finely ground green tea leaves, offers a gentler caffeine kick than coffee and has captured the imagination of health-conscious patrons.
Baristas are getting creative with these lattes, whipping up delicious variations complete with intricate latte art, thereby enhancing the café experience.
Ready-to-drink coffees on the rise
Convenience is now king in the coffee world, leading to a significant surge in ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee options.
Whether on the go or enjoying a moment at home, consumers are increasingly reaching for these portable, pre-packaged options that allow them to savour their favourite caffeinated beverages without the wait.
Milk alternatives
The days of sticking to conventional milk choices are in the past. The market now brims with an array of milk alternatives such as oat, almond, and soy, providing customers with a plethora of choices.
As these options continue to evolve, coffee shops must stay ahead of the curve to cater to the growing demand.
Natural sweeteners take the lead
With summer approaching, many consumers are mindful of their waistlines and are seeking healthier options.
Replacing refined sugar with natural sweeteners - like coconut sugar or maple syrup - has become a popular trend among coffee drinkers looking to indulge without guilt.
This trend also gives consumers the flexibility to choose sweeteners that suit their taste preferences, making every coffee experience uniquely personalised.