For many of us, the day doesn’t begin without at least one cup of coffee. But, this doesn’t necessarily mean simply brewing and drinking coffee in the comfort of your own home. With changing times comes changing coffee trends, and there are certainly plenty to be aware of.
The new generation of coffee drinkers are making a major impact on the industry. While the coffee drinkers of the past were mainly focused on price, millennials place more value on the experience of drinking coffee. They are willing to pay more for specialty drinks, sustainable ingredients, and “gram-able” food and beverages. This shift in demand has led the way to some of the most innovative (and downright crazy) trends in coffee.
Clear Coffee
While many love the taste and spike in energy that coffee offers us, the fact that the drink easily stains your teeth is undesirable (to say the least). Clear Coffee tastes exactly like regular coffee, even though it is completely colorless. The bottled beverage, made only of coffee, water, and caffeine, is intended to be served cold, at only 4 calories per serving. Could clear coffee be the future of beverages, or is the rich, dark color of our beloved drink part of the experience?
Cold Brew
Step aside, iced coffee, cold brew is the latest craze for refreshi
ng chilled coffee. Instead of traditionally brewing coffee with heat and then serving it over ice, cold brew soaks coffee beans in water for upwards of 12 hours, resulting in a more potent flavor. Cold Brew has been introduced at major coffee retailers like Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks, but smaller brands such as Wandering Bear Co. are quickly gaining popularity thanks to their smooth, bold handmade coffee.
Specialty Coffee
If you didn’t take a photo of your latte to post, did you really even drink it? With the rise of social media accounts solely dedicated to food, companies have to get creative in order to provide post-worthy plates (and beverages!). The result is gourmet and specialty coffee, usually served at small coffee shops. Gourmet coffee is rapidly on the rise, with 59% of all coffee cups being reported as “gourmet” in the National Coffee Association’s 2017 Trend Report. As businesses each make their own attempts at differentiation, some have even began serving coffee on tap, just like beer. This nitro coffee has a creamy, foamy texture that certainly provides a unique experience.
Coffee On-the-Go
Ready-to-Drink coffee is growing increasingly popular, placing empha
sis on packaging. When it comes to grab-and-go coffee, many opt for healthier choices that they can feel good about drinking. Brands like Pop & Bottle offer delicious, organic caffeinated drinks flavored with almond milk that are simple to enjoy on the move.
What’s Next?
Trends are constantly evolving, and it’s clear to see that the coffee industry is no exception. With the rise in demand for coffee that provides a unique experience, there’s no telling what’s next to come.
P.S.
Pro tip & shameless client plug: Next time you’re having a coffee, whatever your preference, enjoy it with a Rip Van Wafel. These delicious snacks are modeled after Amsterdam’s classic vendor treat, the stroopwafel. They can be heated over your coffee or dipped for a warm indulgence.
To check out more about how we help brands like Wandering Bear Co. & Rip Van Wafels stand out in growing and competitive markets, visit http://www.wearelms.com/#ourmo