Coffee and tea have long been staples in the daily routines of people around the world. In the United States alone, a staggering 73% of Americans start their day with a cup of coffee, and 51% of people indulge in purchasing coffee from a coffee shop at least once a week. Today, we find ourselves in an exciting era for the coffee and tea industry, where coffee shops are no longer just a place to grab a quick drink; they have become a hub for productivity, socializing, and relaxation. From flavor trends to operational evolutions, we walk you through the top 10 trends in the coffee and tea industry that operators should take note of to proactively meet the evolving demands within their sector. <figure> </figure> Half-Caff Coffee Good sleep is essential to good health, so many consumers are looking for ways to decrease their caffeine intake without sacrificing the flavor of their coffee or giving up caffeine entirely. Enter half-caff coffee which is comprised of a 50/50 blend of decaf and caffeinated beans. On average, half-caff coffee contains 40 to 50 mg of caffeine, compared to the 95 mg of caffeine in a traditional cup of coffee. For many, half-caff is the ultimate solution; it allows patrons to enjoy the rich coffee flavor they love while reducing their caffeine consumption. Half-caff still provides an energy pick-me-up and can help prevent the dreaded caffeine headache that plagues many who quit caffeine cold turkey. If you operate a coffee roastery, consider adding a few half-caff blends to your repertoire to meet the growing demand. <figure> </figure> Coworking Spaces In 2024, one out of every four employees worked remotely at least some of the time, amounting to approximately 35.13 million people. This allows coffee shops to serve as co-working spaces for America’s remote and hybrid workforce. To make your business appealing to remote workers, invest in a strong WiFi connection, charging stations for all your tables, and appealing decor that facilitates creative inspiration. Offer snacks for people to nibble on throughout the day or create a coffee pairing menu to enhance customers' experience. Loyalty programs can inspire patrons to make your coffee shop a regular part of their weekly work-from-home rhythm. If space allows, consider creating a conference room or quiet zone for people to either book or seek when looking for a distraction-free space. <figure> </figure> Fermented Teas Both Pu-erh and kombucha exemplify the growing trend of fermented foods saturating the tea industry, appealing to consumers seeking unique and health-promoting beverage choices. Pu-erh tea leaves are aged and fermented, resulting in a rich, earthy flavor profile with complex undertones. Produced in the Yunnan province of China, Pu-erh tea is known for its smooth and mellow taste, making it a favorite among tea connoisseurs looking for a distinctive and flavorful brew. Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage that has gained popularity for its probiotic properties and tangy flavor profile. Made by fermenting sweetened tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), kombucha offers a refreshing and slightly effervescent drink that is believed to have various health benefits. Offering kombucha on tap is a great way to set your coffee shop apart, and you can sell kombucha flights so customers can try small portions of different flavors. <figure> </figure> Coffee Cocktails The coffee and tea industry is undergoing a transformative shift as coffee shops evolve into all-day cafes, offering a diverse range of beverages and integrating coffee cocktails into the coffee shop scene. One of the standout trends is the resurgence of the espresso martini. This iconic cocktail, which combines the rich flavors of espresso with the bold notes of vodka and coffee liqueur, has become a staple on the menus of many coffee shops and bars. In addition to the espresso martini, cold brew cocktails have also emerged as a popular choice among consumers looking for a refreshing and invigorating beverage. Cold brew coffee, known for its smooth and mellow flavor profile, serves as the perfect base for crafting innovative cocktails that offer a unique blend of caffeine and alcohol. Whether infused with herbs, spices, or fruit flavors, cold brew cocktails provide a refreshing alternative to traditional coffee-based drinks. <figure> </figure> Health and Wellness Many consumers are now choosing their beverages not only for their flavor but also for the potential health benefits they offer. Recent polls show that approximately 82% of U.S. consumers see wellness as a top priority. This trend is particularly prominent in the tea sector, where a growing number of tea drinkers are seeking types of teas that promote overall well-being. Tea blends that incorporate ingredients such as ginger, black seed, ashwagandha, turmeric, and chamomile are gaining popularity for their adaptogenic, digestive, or antioxidant properties. By highlighting the potential health benefits of different tea blends, businesses can cater to the growing demand for wellness-focused products. While you should always be wary of giving health advice, curating blends for immunity, stress relief, or digestive health can help guide customers to the right tea blend for their needs. <figure> </figure> Housemade Syrups Creating their own flavoring syrups provides coffee shop owners with a unique opportunity in 2025. Not only will it help them craft unique, delicious drinks for customers visiting their storefront, but it will also allow them to bottle and sell their syrups to customers. 61% of consumers reported that brewing coffee at home enables them to save money while still enjoying a delightful experience. Additionally, 51% of coffee enthusiasts either possess or are intrigued by the idea of using syrups and additives in their coffee. By offering bottled housemade syrups, you can cater to this market segment and continue generating sales from customers who are increasingly opting to enjoy their coffee in the comfort of their own homes. Classic flavors like vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut are great places to start due to their versatility, and floral flavors like lavender and rose can help you stand out. <figure> </figure> Coffee and Tea are a “Little Treat” Coffee and tea have transcended their traditional roles as mere beverages and have evolved into indulgent “little treats” savored for both pleasure and experience, especially among Gen Z consumers. In their report, Nestle U.S. highlighted that consumers are now increasingly intrigued by new, exciting textures and flavors that rebel against the purist coffee brews of the past. This trend has given rise to creative concoctions such as charcoal lattes, which boast a striking black color and a hint of smoky flavor, as well as fruit or floral-flavored coffee drinks. This trend keeps the industry dynamic and exciting for both consumers and businesses. The visual appeal of coffee and tea has also become a key factor in consumer decision-making. Vibrant, Instagram-worthy drinks are not just desired but expected. From iced lavender matcha lattes to frozen pumpkin spice lattes, consumers are drawn to visually appealing beverages. <figure> </figure> Curbside Coffee Curbside coffee is gaining popularity as a convenient alternative to traditional drive-through coffee service. While not every location can accommodate a drive-through setup, curbside coffee offers a similar level of convenience by allowing customers to place orders in advance through mobile apps or online platforms and provide details such as the make and model of their car to ensure a seamless pickup experience. They can then pick up their order without leaving their vehicles. This innovative service allows on-the-go customers to frequent small cafes without having to wait in line or enter a store. Providing curbside coffee service can enhance the overall customer experience and this level of service can help build customer loyalty and attract new patrons who value efficiency and convenience. Not only does this streamlined process save time for customers, but it also enhances the overall efficiency of the coffee shop or tea house. <figure> </figure> Shaken Espresso According to a 2024 survey conducted by the National Coffee Association, 45% of coffee drinkers ages 18 to 24 had consumed a cold coffee beverage in the past 24 hours. One exciting trend that has emerged in response to the demand for cold coffee is the shaken espresso. Shaken espresso combines the bold flavors of espresso with the refreshing chill of an iced drink. To create a shaken espresso, baristas mix espresso, ice, simple syrup, and a choice of milk or cream in a shaker. Traditional milk can be subbed for oat milk, almond milk, or a unique non-dairy milk like pistachio milk for a lactose-free beverage. The mixture is then shaken vigorously to blend the ingredients and create a frothy texture. Finally, the shaken espresso is poured over ice, resulting in a revitalizing and invigorating beverage that is a perfect pick-me-up any time of the day. If you want to further elevate the beverage, consider topping it with cold foam. <figure> </figure> Gong-Fu Cha Tea Service Gong-fu Cha tea service, with its roots in traditional Chinese tea culture, perfectly caters to the demand for luxury and cultural experiences by emphasizing the art of tea preparation and presentation. In Gong-fu Cha tea service, the focus is on using high-quality tea leaves, precise brewing techniques, and elegant teaware to create a holistic sensory experience. The process involves multiple short infusions of the tea leaves in small teapots or gaiwans, allowing the drinker to savor the evolving flavors and aromas of the tea with each steeping. This meticulous approach not only enhances the taste of the tea but also provides a meditative and ceremonial aspect to the act of tea drinking. By offering Gong-fu Cha tea service, tea bars can differentiate themselves in the competitive tea market and tap into the growing trend of experiential dining, where customers are willing to pay a premium for unique and immersive culinary experiences. <!-- </div> --> What Is Driving 2025's Coffee and Tea Industry Trends? As we look ahead to the trends shaping the coffee and tea industry in 2025, several key factors are driving the evolution of this dynamic market. In response to these driving forces, coffee and tea businesses are adapting their offerings, marketing strategies, and operational models to align with evolving consumer preferences and market dynamics, shaping the future landscape of the industry in 2025 and beyond. Digital Exposure: The rise of social media platforms like TikTok has revolutionized how consumers discover and engage with new coffee and tea trends. Influencers and content creators are leveraging these platforms to showcase innovative brewing techniques, unique flavor combinations, and aesthetically pleasing drink presentations, influencing consumer preferences and driving demand for novel beverage experiences. Desire to Treat Oneself: In an era marked by increasing workloads and stress, consumers are seeking moments of indulgence and self-care. Premium coffee and tea offerings, such as specialty blends, artisanal brews, and luxury add-ins, cater to this desire for a pampering experience, positioning these products as affordable luxuries in daily routines. Coworking Culture: The shift towards remote work and flexible office arrangements has fueled the popularity of coworking spaces, where professionals gather to collaborate, network, and work in a shared environment. Coffee and tea have become essential amenities in these spaces, fostering a sense of community and productivity among members, while also driving demand for high-quality beverages that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Economic Concerns of Making Coffee at Home: As economic uncertainties persist, consumers are increasingly turning to home brewing as a cost-effective alternative to purchasing coffee and tea from cafes and restaurants. The convenience and savings associated with brewing at home are driving the demand for affordable brewing equipment, pantry staples, and DIY kits that enable individuals to recreate their favorite cafe experiences in the comfort of their own kitchens. Health Concerns: With a growing emphasis on wellness and mindful consumption, health-conscious consumers are seeking coffee and tea products that offer functional benefits, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and natural ingredients. The demand for organic, low-sugar, and low-caffeine options is on the rise, reflecting a broader shift towards health-oriented lifestyles and sustainable consumption practices in the industry. In the evolving coffee and tea industry landscape, the offerings have expanded beyond traditional coffee drinks. While cappuccinos and lattes were once considered indulgent treats, they are now commonly found on menus. Businesses can boost their profitability by adapting their operational practices and keeping up with menu trends. For insights into the current state of the overall foodservice industry, check out our restaurant industry statistics.
