January 16, 2025
RT Staff Reporters
Brazil achieved a historic milestone in 2024 by exporting an unprecedented 50.44 million 60-kg bags of coffee, as reported by the Coffee Exporters Council (Cecafé). This marked a remarkable 28.5% increase from the 39.24 million bags exported in 2023.
As the world’s leading coffee producer and exporter, Brazil set a new benchmark, surpassing the 50 million 60-kg bag threshold for the first time. This surge in exports also translated into record revenues, with the coffee industry generating $1.145 billion in 2024.
According to Cecafé President Márcio Ferreira, the growth was primarily driven by record shipments of Brazilian Arabica coffee, which accounted for 73.2% of total exports. This underscores the dominant role of Arabica beans in Brazil’s export market.
Key Export Destinations
The United States, Germany, Belgium, Italy, and Japan emerged as the top importers of Brazilian coffee in 2024. Additionally, exports to Asian markets increased by 11.4%, reflecting growing demand from this region.
Global Market Impact
This record-breaking performance highlights Brazil’s strength in the global coffee market. The country’s ability to meet increasing international demand while maintaining high-quality production has reinforced its position as a leading player in the industry.
Economic Implications
Brazil’s coffee export success underscores the importance of economic policies that promote free trade and innovation. The surge in exports demonstrates the benefits of prioritizing quality production and market responsiveness, resulting in substantial economic gains.
A Testament to Market-Driven Growth
Brazil’s record-setting year in coffee exports serves as a testament to the power of market-driven economics. It highlights the country’s commitment to fostering productivity and innovation in agriculture, ensuring continued leadership in the global coffee industry.
This achievement not only reflects Brazil’s robust coffee sector but also its ability to adapt and thrive in an evolving global market.
https://www.riotimesonline.com/brazil-shatters-coffee-export-record-50-44-million-bags-in-2024/
January 15, 2025
New York-based green coffee trading and roasting company, Coffee Holding Co., has filed a lawsuit against a Texas-based logistics broker, Ryaan Logistics Group, alleging breach of contract and negligence following the disappearance of a coffee shipment valued at more than $84,000.
The lawsuit, filed on January 10 in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, states that the coffee shipment was intended to be transported from Coffee Holding Co.’s facility in La Junta, Colorado, to a United Natural Foods (UNFI) distribution warehouse in Centralia, Washington, in February 2024.
Coffee Holding Co. contracted Ryaan Logistics Group, based in Prosper, Texas, to coordinate the shipment. According to the complaint, the shipment was initially assigned to a Florida-based trucking company called AFC Trucking. However, the situation took a turn when it was discovered that the AFC Trucking driver missed the scheduled pickup due to mechanical issues. Instead, the load was reportedly picked up by a driver from another company, Maya Transportation, as revealed during an investigation by Ryaan.
Ryaan Logistics Group has not provided a public comment regarding the allegations.
The investigation also uncovered that AFC Trucking’s web system had been hacked, allowing a fraudulent driver to impersonate an AFC representative and pick up the shipment. Ryaan was able to track the coffee shipment to two locations in California—a warehouse in Santa Ana and another in Montebello—before losing the trail. Subsequently, Ryaan filed an incident report with the La Junta, Colorado, police department.
Coffee Holding Co. is seeking damages totaling $84,491.94, along with legal fees, accusing Ryaan Logistics Group of failing to fulfill its contractual obligations and exercising negligence in handling the shipment.
The case highlights the increasing challenges faced by logistics companies in ensuring secure transportation amidst rising concerns over cybersecurity vulnerabilities and fraudulent activities in the supply chain sector.
January 11, 2025
Coffee Geography Magazine
The University of Trieste and the University of Udine, in collaboration with illycaffè, the Ernesto Illy Foundation, SISSA (International School for Advanced Studies of Trieste), and the Scientific and Technological Research Area of Trieste, have launched a pioneering Master’s program in Coffee Economics and Science. This first-level inter-university Master’s program aims to provide a comprehensive education covering the biological, agronomic, technological, and economic aspects of coffee, guiding students from the coffee plant to the final product.
The program is supported by scholarships funded by Fondazione Friuli and financial assistance from Fondazione CRTrieste. Additionally, the Ernesto Illy Foundation has awarded financial aid to 16 students, including 10 full scholarships and 6 partial scholarships.
This year, the program welcomes 25 students from 18 countries, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Mexico, Mozambique, Nicaragua, and Tanzania. The course targets young graduates in economics, engineering, and agricultural sciences, offering a global perspective on coffee.
Program Highlights
The curriculum includes over 430 hours of instruction delivered by 60 experienced instructors. The program begins with remote classes and transitions to in-person sessions starting in May 2025. It concludes with a project work component, where students apply their knowledge to a specific topic explored during their studies.
Anna Illy, President of the Fondazione Ernesto Illy and Board Member of illycaffè, stated, “The Fondazione Ernesto Illy is proud to offer financial support to 16 students, continuing our commitment to nurturing emerging talent in the coffee sector. Since its establishment in 2008, the Foundation has worked tirelessly to promote scientific research, education, and sustainability in the coffee industry. The Master in Coffee Economics and Science embodies these goals by training highly qualified professionals who uphold illycaffè’s legacy of excellence and innovation. I wish all participants a successful and rewarding course of study, with the hope that they become ambassadors of quality coffee and sustainability worldwide.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Since its inception, the Ernesto Illy Master in Coffee Economics and Science has trained over 272 students from more than 30 countries. These graduates have gone on to become professionals in the coffee sector, contributing to ethical and sustainable practices that align with illycaffè’s commitment to quality and innovation. The program reflects illycaffè’s dedication to fostering expertise, promoting sustainability, and enhancing the global coffee industry.
January 6, 2025
A fascinating trend is emerging in the coffee world: large chains are shrinking their physical presence, while independent coffee shops are growing in both number and appeal. Major coffee chains are reducing costs by opening smaller locations focused on quick service. Meanwhile, independent coffee shops are thriving by offering a unique combination of personality, quality, and a welcoming atmosphere for those who enjoy sitting down with a cup of coffee and a pastry—often enticing customers to come back for more.
The specialty coffee shop market is projected to grow by $39.17 billion between 2022 and 2027, driven largely by independent coffee shop innovation. Many indie café owners dream of sharing their passion for coffee while creating a space for meaningful social connections. Despite challenges like rising costs and competition from big brands, independent coffee shop entrepreneurs are finding ways to succeed. Here, we celebrate the areas in the United States with the highest-rated independent coffee shops, as well as the shops customers love the most.
What We Did
Building on a previous study of highly rated independent restaurants, we collected data on the five-star ratings of non-chain coffee shops in the largest cities across the United States. We ranked the cities based on the weighted average of these ratings and identified the highest-rated independent coffee shops nationwide and in every state.
Key Findings
- Knoxville, Tennessee, is home to the highest-rated independent coffee shops in the U.S., with an average rating of 4.59.
- The Espresso Bar at Taos Valley Lodge in Taos, New Mexico, holds the title of the highest-rated independent coffee shop in the country with a 4.93 rating.
- New York City’s top-rated independent coffee shop is Frisson Espresso in Hell’s Kitchen, boasting a 4.76 rating.
- New Orleans has the highest density of independent coffee shops, with 52.18 per million people—the most of any major American city.
Knoxville: The Top City for Indie Coffee Shops
Our analysis revealed Knoxville, Tennessee, as the city with the highest-rated independent coffee shops. With an average rating of 4.59, Knoxville’s coffee culture is thriving. Coffee & Chocolate, a cozy café on Union Avenue, is a standout favorite. Known for its macarons, hand-painted chocolates, and aromatic ambiance, this café has won over locals and visitors alike. One reviewer raved, “The coffee is so good we went back twice in one morning. The chocolates are beautiful mini works of art.”
While Knoxville leads in quality, New Orleans stands out for quantity. With an impressive 52.18 independent coffee shops per million residents, New Orleans’ coffee culture has deep historical roots. Its proximity to coffee-producing regions in the Caribbean and South America has made it a hub for coffee imports since the late 1700s.
Texas also makes its mark with two coffee shops in the top ten nationwide: Iris Bagel and Coffee House in Arlington (4.86) and Estate Coffee Company in San Antonio (4.80). Regulars at Iris Bagel praise its friendly atmosphere and excellent coffee, with one reviewer noting, “This is an amazing gem in my neighborhood. The owner knows many people by name and genuinely cares about the community.”
California’s Best Indie Coffee Shop by the Beach
In California, Pacific Bean Coffee in San Diego takes the top spot with a 4.81 rating. This seaside café not only offers exceptional coffee but also a prime location for enjoying stunning sunsets. One reviewer shared their experience: “When we told the barista we came just for the sunset and coffee, she let us in after closing and made it special for us. Why settle for big business coffee when there are places like this?”
Keys to Independent Coffee Shop Success
According to Miranda Caldwell of The Coffee MBA, successful coffee shops are built on a combination of passion, community focus, and solid business practices. Here are three key strategies for indie café owners:
1. **Choose the Right Location**: Location is crucial. For a take-out-focused shop, proximity to commuter hubs or high-traffic areas is essential. Community-focused cafés may benefit from less expensive spaces in quieter neighborhoods, but pricing and branding should reflect the local market.
2. **Build Customer Loyalty**: Creating a space where people want to return is vital. Learn your customers’ preferences, offer loyalty programs, and foster a welcoming environment. Regular customers provide consistent revenue and help build a sense of community.
3. **Hire and Support Great Staff**: Staff are the heart of any café. Employees who share the owner’s passion and deliver excellent service can create memorable experiences for customers and turn occasional visitors into regulars.
Indie coffee shops are uniquely positioned to deliver personalized service, support local suppliers, and address ethical and environmental concerns. They also serve as vital “third spaces” where people can connect or enjoy the company of others in a welcoming environment—an experience that big chains often struggle to replicate.
Methodology
We analyzed the most populous cities in each state, sourcing publicly available Tripadvisor data for coffee shops. Chain establishments were excluded from the analysis. Five-star ratings were isolated to calculate the weighted average rating of independent coffee shops in each city. Data collection was completed in October 2024.
Jan 13, 2025, 16:05 ET
BURLINGTON, Mass. and FRISCO, Tex., Jan. 13, 2025 – Keurig Dr Pepper (NASDAQ: KDP) has announced key leadership appointments as part of its strategy to drive growth and fulfill its vision of providing a beverage for every need, anytime and anywhere.
“KDP is evolving our leadership structure to drive the next phase of our growth,” stated Tim Cofer, Chief Executive Officer. “With a deep bench of seasoned, forward-thinking leaders, we are well-positioned to achieve our strategic objectives.”
Leadership Appointments
The following changes to the Executive Leadership Team are effective immediately:
Eric Gorli, President, U.S. Refreshment Beverages
Gorli will manage KDP’s $9 billion U.S. liquid refreshment business, which includes carbonated soft drinks, still beverages, and energy drinks. With nearly 30 years of experience in the beverage industry, including roles at The Coca-Cola Company, Gorli has been instrumental in shaping KDP’s pricing, promotional, and growth strategies since joining in 2015.
Sean Cronican, Chief Customer Officer
Cronican will oversee KDP’s customer-facing teams, managing partnerships across grocery, mass retail, club stores, small format, foodservice, and e-commerce. With almost 30 years of sales experience and a proven track record at KDP since 2016, Cronican has strengthened the company’s critical customer relationships.
Drew Panayiotou, Chief Marketing Officer
Panayiotou, who joined KDP in November 2024, will lead marketing for both U.S. Refreshment Beverages and U.S. Coffee. His nearly three decades of sales, marketing, and management experience will drive a digital-first approach to KDP’s marketing efforts.
Additional Leadership Changes
Justin Whitmore, President, KDP Energy
Whitmore has been appointed to the newly created role of President, KDP Energy, reflecting the company’s commitment to capitalizing on growth opportunities in the energy category. KDP’s energy portfolio now exceeds $1 billion in retail sales. Whitmore will oversee marketing, sales, operations, and integration for the energy brand portfolio, reporting to Eric Gorli.
Following these changes, Andrew Archambault, President, U.S. Refreshment Beverages, will depart the company on January 31 to pursue other opportunities. Archambault played a vital role in shaping KDP’s commercial strategy over his seven years with the company.
Current Leadership Team
The following Executive Leadership Team roles remain unchanged:
- Mary Beth DeNooyer, Chief Human Resources Officer
- Roger Johnson, Chief Supply Chain Officer
- Patrick Minogue, President, U.S. Coffee
- Monique Oxender, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer
- Sudhanshu Priyadarshi, Chief Financial Officer and President, International
- Dr. Karin Rotem-Wildeman, Chief Research & Development Officer
- Anthony Shoemaker, Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel
About Keurig Dr Pepper
Keurig Dr Pepper (NASDAQ: KDP) is a leading beverage company in North America with a portfolio of over 125 brands, including Keurig, Dr Pepper, Canada Dry, Snapple, and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters. Generating approximately $15 billion in annual revenue, KDP has built strong platforms in premium coffee, energy drinks, sports hydration, and ready-to-drink beverages. Guided by its purpose to “Drink Well. Do Good.,” KDP aims to enhance beverage occasions and positively impact communities and the planet.
For more information, visit [www.keurigdrpepper.com](http://www.keurigdrpepper.com) and follow the company on LinkedIn.
Forward-Looking Statements
This announcement includes forward-looking statements based on current expectations, which involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially. For more information, refer to KDP’s filings with the SEC. KDP assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required by law.
January 16, 2025
Vietnamese café chain Three O'Clock has announced plans to enter the South Asian market through an exclusive regional franchise agreement with India’s FranGlobal. This strategic partnership is set to establish 100 stores across India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh by 2034, as reported by World Coffee Portal.
FranGlobal chairman Gaurav Marya expressed optimism about the venture, highlighting Three O'Clock’s distinctive dual coffee and tea menu as a key factor in appealing to young consumers in the region. The café’s menu includes classic beverages such as espressos and americanos alongside innovative options like salted coffees and espresso tiramisus, all available in both hot and cold variations. Additionally, the milk tea selection features unique offerings such as jasmine oolongs, cloudy avocado leaf teas, and full-leaf black teas.
Founded in 2016, Three O’Clock currently operates ten 24-hour outlets in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The brand’s expansion into South Asia marks its first international venture, with the inaugural store set to open in India by May 2025. FranGlobal plans to target high-traffic locations, including shopping centers and airports, in major Indian cities such as Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi.
Thuan Nguyen, founder and CEO of Three O'Clock, described the agreement as a significant step toward promoting Vietnamese coffee on a global scale. The move aligns with World Coffee Portal’s research, which underscores the strength of Vietnam’s branded coffee shop sector, boasting over 5,700 outlets and more than 50 operators.
January 13, 2025
Costa Rican coffee has gained international recognition for its exceptional quality and unique flavors. During a gathering in Vatican City, Pope Francis himself shared his admiration for the country’s coffee. Speaking to a group of 47 pilgrims from the Diocese of Ciudad Quesada, he acknowledged the excellence of Costa Rican coffee, saying, “You know you have some of the best coffee in the world.”
The country’s coffee stands out due to its eight distinct growing regions, each offering its own unique flavor profile. Costa Rica’s diverse climate provides a variety of microclimates and levels of humidity, creating ideal conditions for cultivating different types of coffee beans. This variation allows coffee enthusiasts to enjoy a broad spectrum of flavors, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate.
From its tropical climate to its rich volcanic soil, Costa Rica’s natural environment plays a significant role in producing coffee that is both flavorful and distinctive. Each region contributes to the country’s reputation as a leading producer of high-quality coffee, celebrated by coffee lovers worldwide.
11:12 AM EST January 15, 2025
WASHINGTON — Harrison Suarez, co-founder of Compass Coffee, has filed a lawsuit against his former business partner Michael Haft and Haft’s father, Robert Haft. Suarez claims he was wrongfully pushed out of the company and that Covid-19 relief funds were misused.
Compass Coffee, based in Washington, D.C., was founded in 2013. Suarez and Michael Haft, who met in college and served together in the Marines, started the company after bonding over their shared love of morning coffee. Both invested $100,000 and initially held 25% ownership under the company’s first operating agreement.
Robert Haft, a prominent figure in Washington, D.C. business, provided additional funding through his LLC, Colby Bartlett LLC, which owned the remaining 50% of the company.
In the lawsuit, Suarez alleges that despite being assured of equal partnership, Michael Haft quickly became the majority owner. This, Suarez claims, allowed Michael Haft and his father to force him out of the company without warning.
The suit further alleges that Colby Bartlett LLC’s 50% ownership was transferred to another LLC, which Suarez believed Robert Haft owned. However, according to the lawsuit, Michael Haft was actually the owner of the new LLC, increasing his ownership stake to 75%.
In a LinkedIn post, Suarez detailed his efforts to resolve the matter privately before resorting to legal action.
“In 2013, I co-founded Compass Coffee with my close friend from the Marines,” Suarez wrote. “In July 2021, after years of hard work and while I was out of the country, my co-founder and his father forcibly exited me from the company and refused to compensate me for my equity. Since then, I have sought to resolve this dispute privately, constructively, and in accordance with our agreements. Yesterday, left with no other option, I filed suit in DC Federal Court.”
The lawsuit includes several allegations, including that the Hafts used $10.5 million in Covid-19 relief funds obtained for Compass Coffee to prepay personal loans and make risky investments, rather than covering company expenses like rent and bills.
After being terminated, Suarez attempted to sell his stake back to Compass Coffee, which he claims was his right under their operating agreement. However, the lawsuit alleges that the Hafts blocked the sale by preventing an independent valuation firm from determining the fair market value of his shares.
Suarez also claims he was not compensated for his full-time work over the years. He is seeking monetary damages, including compensation for the alleged forced relinquishment of his 50% stake.
Additionally, Suarez is accusing the Hafts of engaging in a pattern of racketeering activity, violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).
Compass Coffee currently operates 20 locations across Washington, D.C. As of now, neither Michael Haft nor Robert Haft has publicly responded to the lawsuit.
Jan 08, 2025, 08:03 ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., January 8, 2025 – Start the new year with a boost of energy and wellness with the all-new Vitality Menu from Peet's Coffee. This innovative lineup features protein-packed lattes and sparkling beverages that are rich in vitamins C and D, designed to keep you energized and support your immune system while delivering the bold flavors Peet's is known for.
The new Vitality Menu includes three lattes high in protein, crafted with Bob's Red Mill Whey Protein Powder, each containing 20 grams or more of protein in a medium-sized beverage. Available hot or iced, the new lattes include:
Vanilla Latte – Smooth and creamy with a touch of sweet vanilla, this latte offers the perfect balance of flavor and function to fuel your day.
Golden Latte – A rich and velvety drink that combines a satisfying texture with bold flavor, providing a perfect pick-me-up.
Matcha Latte – A classic blend of authentic, earthy matcha green tea with creamy steamed milk, enriched with an excellent source of protein.
Peet's sparkling beverages are also designed to support wellness, offering bold, refreshing flavors that are rich in vitamins C and D:
Golden Immunity Sparkling Lemonade – Featuring elderberry and cascara extract, this sparkling drink delivers a bright and energizing flavor.
Sparkling Citrus Immunity Black Tea – A zesty combination of bold black tea and citrus, this bubbly beverage is a delicious way to stay energized and support your health.
“With trends like ‘proffee’ gaining popularity among Gen Z, our Vitality Menu is a game-changing way to start the new year,” said Kristina Roach, Senior Director of Brand Marketing at Peet's Coffee. “By combining the energizing power of coffee with the benefits of protein and vitamins, we’ve created a menu that fuels both body and mind without compromising on flavor.”
Peet's winter menu also features two exciting additions. The revamped Everything Plant-Based Sandwich combines savory Impossible Sausage, fluffy JUST Egg, and melty vegan cheddar on a seasoned everything bagel thin. Additionally, the Ethiopian Super Natural blend returns, offering vibrant notes of wild blueberries, white flower, and candied citron.
For those who prefer to make coffee at home, Peet's Ultra Coffee Concentrate and Bright Collection blends allow you to craft barista-style drinks with ease. Just add your favorite protein shake for a quick and delicious “proffee” experience.
The new menu is available now at Peet's coffeebars nationwide. From January 10 to 12, enjoy 50% off a second drink when you purchase one of the Winter Limited Time Offer beverages, including the Vanilla Latte with Protein, Golden Latte with Protein, Matcha Latte with Protein, Sparkling Citrus Immunity, or Sparkling Golden Immunity.
About Peet's Coffee
Peet's Coffee, founded in Berkeley, California, in 1966 by Alfred Peet, is known for pioneering the artisan coffee movement in the U.S. Renowned for its rich, complex roasts, Peet's has influenced generations of coffee enthusiasts. Today, Peet's operates over 465 locations across the U.S., China, and the Middle East and is committed to responsibly sourcing its coffee in partnership with Enveritas.
Los Angeles, January 6, 2025 – The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is kicking off the new year with bold new flavors for latte lovers. Known for its signature 5-bean espresso blend, the brand continues to elevate the coffee experience by expanding its latte lineup with three exciting additions.
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s unique espresso blend is crafted from beans sourced from five renowned coffee-growing regions, including Costa Rica and Sumatra. Each bean type is roasted separately to enhance its distinct flavor before being blended, resulting in a rich, complex espresso that forms the foundation of their creamy and flavorful lattes.
The new lattes include:
Honey & Nut Latte (hot and iced) – A sweet and nutty creation with bold espresso, hints of honey and hazelnut, and a smooth finish with Califia Farms almond milk.
Honey & Nut Matcha Latte (hot and iced) – Perfect for tea lovers, this latte combines bright, vibrant matcha with sweet honey and creamy almond milk.
Spanish Latte (hot and iced) – A delightful mix of bold espresso, rich condensed milk, steamed milk, and a touch of vanilla, with a subtle cinnamon aroma.
At The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, quality is at the heart of everything we do, said Jay Isais, Vice President of Coffee and Sourcing. From working closely with farms and roasters to crafting every cup with premium espresso, our dedication to excellence is unmatched. These new lattes showcase our espresso’s superior quality and offer our guests exciting new flavors to enjoy.
The new lattes are available now through March 18, 2025, in cafés, online, and via The Coffee Bean mobile app. To sweeten the deal, new members who sign up for The Coffee Bean Rewards program in January will receive a free drink. Existing members can earn 25 bonus points for every order placed through the app this month.
About The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Founded in Southern California in 1963, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is a global specialty coffee and tea brand committed to delivering exceptional beverages inspired by flavors from around the world. Known for its premium coffees and teas, the brand continues to innovate with beloved classics and new creations alike. With over 1,100 locations in more than 20 countries, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf remains a leader in the coffee industry and is part of the Jollibee Group of Companies.
For more details, visit www.coffeebean.com.
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Jan 08, 2025, 09:01 ET
NESCAFÉ Expands Portfolio with New Espresso Concentrate Innovation
Arlington, Va., January 8, 2025 – NESCAFÉ, the world's largest coffee producer, has introduced its first-ever liquid concentrate line in the United States with the launch of NESCAFÉ Espresso Concentrate. This innovative product is designed to meet the growing demand for customizable, convenient, and premium at-home coffee. NESCAFÉ Espresso Concentrate dissolves quickly in water or milk, making it easy for coffee enthusiasts to create café-style iced espresso beverages in seconds.
NESCAFÉ believes everyone deserves a high-quality espresso experience. With NESCAFÉ Espresso Concentrate, there's no need for expensive equipment or complex brewing methods. Whether inspired by a creative espresso drink seen online or simply craving a classic iced latte, coffee lovers can craft their favorite beverages effortlessly at home. Just pour a shot over ice, mix with water or milk, customize to taste, and enjoy a café-style mocha, macchiato, or cappuccino in moments.
Made with 100% Arabica beans, NESCAFÉ Espresso Concentrate is available in two delicious options, offering something for every at-home barista:
- **Black** – A rich and robust concentrate, perfect as a base for any espresso creation.
- **Sweet Vanilla** – A smooth, sweet blend that adds a comforting touch to every sip.
"Gen Z and millennial consumers are constantly seeking cold, convenient, and customizable café-quality coffee," said Felipe Acosta, NESCAFÉ Senior Brand Marketing Manager. "Following the success of our NESCAFÉ Gold Espresso and Ice Roast, we’re excited to continue meeting these evolving preferences. NESCAFÉ Espresso Concentrate empowers coffee lovers to unleash their creativity and enjoy premium espresso drinks instantly from the comfort of their home—no special equipment needed."
NESCAFÉ Espresso Concentrate comes in a 300 mL bottle, yielding approximately 20 servings of high-quality espresso when prepared as directed. It will be available nationwide starting in February, with a suggested retail price of $9.49 (prices may vary by retailer).
Stay updated with the latest news from NESCAFÉ by following them on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X, or by visiting nescafe.com/us/.
About Nestlé USA
Nestlé USA is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through its food and beverage products. Its portfolio includes iconic brands such as Coffee mate, DiGiorno, and Nestlé Toll House. The company also holds the largest coffee portfolio in the United States, featuring NESCAFÉ, Starbucks Coffee at Home, and Seattle's Best. Nestlé USA is a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A., headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, recognized as the world's largest food and beverage company and named among "The World's Most Admired Food Companies" by Fortune magazine for over 25 consecutive years. For more information, visit nestleusa.com.
January 9, 2025
As we step into 2025, rising coffee prices are making headlines worldwide. Reports suggest that in some markets, like Australia, a single cup of coffee could cost as much as AU $12 by the end of the year. While this raises concerns among consumers, global coffee consumption is projected to grow, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the coffee industry.
Global Coffee Consumption Continues to Rise Despite Higher Prices
The coffee industry faced a tough year in 2024, with weather-related supply shortages in Brazil and Vietnam pushing arabica and robusta prices to record highs. Export uncertainties, driven by new regulations like the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), added to the volatility, tightening margins across the supply chain.
Looking ahead, market analysts expect global coffee consumption to increase by 3 percent in 2025, reaching over 168 million 60kg bags. Even with the threat of higher prices, coffee remains a daily ritual for many, especially younger generations who view it as a lifestyle essential rather than just a caffeine fix.
Gen Z and Millennials are driving this growth, explains Darleen Scherer, founder of Black Sheep coffee consultancy. They’re starting to drink coffee at younger ages, prioritizing authenticity and personal connections with the brands they support. This demographic is willing to pay more for experiences and customized beverages that align with their values.
Big Chains Bank on Growing Demand
Major coffee chains are leveraging their established market presence to navigate rising costs. Strong brand loyalty ensures their customer base will likely remain intact, even as prices rise. Companies are doubling down on marketing campaigns and collaborations to attract younger consumers, who are driving much of the demand.
For example, Dunkin recently partnered with singer-songwriter Sabrina Carpenter to promote its Brown Sugar Shakin’ Espresso. Carpenter’s strong Gen Z fan base aligns with Dunkin’s strategy to target younger coffee drinkers who value little treat indulgences.
Chains are emphasizing customization and unique offerings to justify premium prices, Scherer says. They’re also using social media and celebrity partnerships to create viral moments that resonate with their audiences.
Starbucks has similarly benefited from the growing popularity of brown sugar beverages, capitalizing on flavor trends inspired by the Asian bubble tea market. These experiential offerings appeal to younger consumers looking for more than just a standard coffee experience.
Specialty Coffee Shops Face New Hurdles
While large chains may weather rising costs with ease, specialty coffee shops and roasters face a different reality. These businesses rely on smaller volumes of high-quality coffee, making them more vulnerable to market volatility. Increasing retail prices without alienating customers will be a delicate balancing act.
A recent report from the UK described running an independent coffee shop as near impossible due to high coffee prices, wage increases, and rising taxes. Many specialty brands may find it challenging to compete with the perceived value and convenience offered by larger chains.
However, Scherer believes independent coffee shops and roasters can differentiate themselves by leaning into their authenticity. Consumers are looking for more than just a great cup of coffee—they want to connect with the story behind it, she explains.
How Specialty Coffee Can Stand Out
To thrive in 2025, specialty coffee shops need to focus on building strong, personal connections with their customers. Scherer suggests sharing the story of the brand’s founder, showcasing direct relationships with coffee farmers, and highlighting the unique qualities of their offerings.
Social media is a powerful tool for smaller coffee businesses, she says. Share behind-the-scenes moments, community events, and stories that reflect your values. Authenticity resonates deeply with today’s consumers—up to 91 percent of them are more likely to support brands they perceive as genuine.
Additionally, smaller roasters should prioritize quality over price. Offering signature drinks and creating community-focused experiences can help build loyalty and set them apart from larger competitors.
Looking Ahead
Despite rising prices, the global appetite for coffee is expected to grow in 2025. Big chains are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend with large-scale marketing efforts and strong brand loyalty. Meanwhile, specialty coffee businesses must focus on authenticity and innovation to compete in a rapidly evolving market.
By emphasizing their unique stories and commitment to quality, independent coffee shops and roasters can build lasting connections with their customers, ensuring they remain relevant in a competitive industry.
January 23, 2025
For decades, coffee auctions have been a cornerstone of the industry, connecting producers with buyers and ensuring access to exceptional coffee lots. Traditionally, these auctions have been instrumental in highlighting premium coffees and providing producers with opportunities to secure better market access and prices.
Recently, the landscape of coffee auctions has undergone significant transformation. What once focused on individual regions or origins is now becoming more global. Auctions today are no longer limited to a single country; they are platforms where producers from various coffee-growing regions come together, offering roasters a broader range of flavors and experiences.
The Journey of Coffee Auctions
Initially designed to showcase high-quality green coffee, auctions have long been a way for producers—particularly smallholders—to earn premiums for their dedication to excellence. Historically, these events were held in person at the origin, drawing roasters from across the globe to cup, bid, and acquire unique lots. However, logistical challenges like travel costs and geographical distances posed barriers to both buyers and producers.
In response, technology has introduced virtual coffee auctions, making the process more accessible. Producers can now connect with buyers through online platforms, where samples are shipped, cupped, and bid on from anywhere in the world. This innovation has opened the door for more diverse participation, but until recently, most auctions remained focused on specific origins, limiting variety.
Why Global Coffee Auctions Matter
As consumer preferences evolve, the demand for unique and diverse coffee offerings continues to grow. Coffee lovers are increasingly seeking out novel flavor experiences, and global coffee auctions are uniquely positioned to meet this demand. By including producers from multiple countries, auctions can showcase an impressive spectrum of coffee varieties and processing methods, creating exciting opportunities for roasters.
For example, regions like Brazil are renowned for natural processing, while Colombia excels in washed coffees, and Costa Rica is famous for honey processing. Global auctions combine these unique characteristics, providing buyers with a curated selection of flavors that transcend geographical boundaries.
New Opportunities for Producers and Roasters
Global auctions also create significant benefits for producers. By participating in these events, they can establish a reputation, build networks, and reach markets they might not have accessed otherwise. For buyers, sourcing from international auctions helps elevate their brand by showcasing an exceptional selection of coffees, further engaging their customers.
One such event, the upcoming **Dubai Coffee Auction by DMCC**, highlights this global shift. Set to take place on February 10–11, 2025, the auction will feature twelve esteemed specialty coffee producers from nine countries, offering exclusive lots to buyers. Hosted in collaboration with M-Cultivo, this hybrid event combines in-person and virtual participation, making it more inclusive and accessible.
The Future of Coffee Auctions
As the coffee industry continues to globalize, auctions are becoming essential tools for connecting producers with roasters and consumers worldwide. By diversifying offerings and simplifying access, auctions help ensure that exceptional coffee can reach new audiences while delivering value to everyone involved in the supply chain.
Whether you're a producer looking to expand your reach or a roaster seeking unique lots to delight your customers, global coffee auctions offer a compelling opportunity. Don’t miss your chance to participate in this evolving movement that’s reshaping the specialty coffee industry.
