In the fast-paced world that we’re living in today, coffee has become somewhat of a necessity, more than a luxury. Not only is it a lifeline for many fast and furious professionals navigating through their manic days. But it’s also one of the largest trade industries in the world. With an estimated 500 billion cups consumed every year to the value of $20 billion. Due to the prevalence of coffee culture, the world of coffee consumption is constantly evolving. The industry continues to adapt to satisfy consumer’s needs and ever-changing taste buds.
According to Yassir Corpataux, Coffee Ambassador Nespresso MEA, “It is an interesting and thrilling time for the coffee industry. Many actors start to appear all around the world. From professional baristas to roasters, or the increased numbers of coffee amateurs, we’ve noticed a great interest for quality coffee and perfect brewing methods. Nespresso aims to answer the consumer needs as much as possible with our simple extraction methods. The energy used to prepare coffee and consistency of the quality in the cup is what matters. We answer those needs with a system that uses the perfect amount of fresh ground coffee, hot water and energy needed to prepare a cup of coffee.”
Coffee trends
Coffee trends have evolved over the years, starting in 1773 with the Boston Tea Party, where American colonists protested tea tax laws by brewing their own coffee instead. Since then, many new trends have emerged in the coffee industry, from the rise of artisanal coffee shops to the shift in using milk alternatives, to matcha coffee being the rage, and then of course the impressive latte art that’s become a prerequisite for any self-respecting barista.
Current trends in the coffee industry include:
Health
The trend towards a healthier lifestyle has extended to coffee. With many coffee shops adding healthy alternatives to their menus, such as maca lattes, mushroom coffee or the addition of collagen creamer.
Sustainability
Coffee consumers are aware of the need for sustainability in their coffee routine. This is why we are seeing a rise in trends like reusable cups and in the materials used. Nespresso capsules are an example of this, with their capsules now being made from 80% recycled aluminum, considering that aluminum is infinitely recyclable.
Quality decaf blends
Previously, foregoing caffeine in your coffee would mean having to accept subpar blends. The decaffeination process can eliminate the potent flavours of the coffee. However, top-end coffee roasters now create high-quality coffee sans the caffeine.
Dalgona whipped coffee
The Dalgona whipped coffee is the latest trend to take the internet by storm. With origins in South Korea, this frothy beverage is created by whipping together instant coffee, sugar and water to make a toffee-coloured foam which is then spooned over milk and enjoyed hot or cold.
Coffee Culture
There are also specific ‘coffee cultures’ which are unique to specific cities. For example, Vienna’s Viennese coffee house culture, often referred to as ‘the city’s public living rooms’. Where guests gather at these spots for hours on end, and need only purchase a single coffee. Then there’s Argentina’s Merienda which is observed late afternoon and includes coffee accompanied by a small snack. These world-wide cultures inspired Nespresso’s World Explorations range. This captures the sensations, tastes and aromas of some of the world’s most admired cities, including Cape Town.
According to Corpataux, “These cities have some of the most vibrant and unique coffee cultures. Our Cape Town Lungo blend represents the city’s taste in coffee, which is enjoyed with a splash of milk. In Vienna, you will find intense black coffees with a malty savoury note stemming from the Monsoon Arabica. Tokyo is all about rich coffee with elegant aromas. While Shanghai is leading the way in China’s modern coffee scene. Vienna is known for the smoothness of its coffee, and those in Buenos Aires enjoy coffee that’s sweet and milky.
“We used all these attributes to create individual blends that truly embrace the city. Offering consumers the chance to experience each of the selected cities in a cup, from the comfort of their home. At Nespresso, we aim to give consumers the best coffee experience as trends continue to evolve around the world,” Corpataux concludes.
For more information, visit the Nespresso corporate website www.nestle-nespresso.com.
