Coffee consumption in the UK: Key statistics and regional insights

Coffee is well and truly woven into daily life across the UK. According to the British Coffee Association, we collectively drink around 98 million cups a day, proof that the nation runs on more than just tea and toast.

While instant coffee remains popular, there's a noticeable shift towards ground coffee and single-serve pods, especially among younger demographics like Gen Z and Millennials.

In 2024, 29.8 million kilograms of coffee were purchased out-of-home, a figure expected to rise to 34.5 million kilograms by 2028.

Coffee trends shaping the UK in 2025

Coffee culture in the UK is evolving too, at a faster pace, smarter, and with a splash of oat milk on top. Here's what we're seeing across mugs, machines, and cafés up and down the country:

Sustainability with Substance: More coffee lovers are asking the right questions: where’s it from, who grew it, and how was it sourced? Traceable, organic, and rainforest-friendly beans are in high demand, and rightly so.
Cold Brew on the Rise: As the temperature climbs, so does the craving for cold brew. Smooth, low in acidity, and ridiculously refreshing, it's becoming a year-round favourite. (Check out our guide here.)
The Milk Makeover: Oat. Almond. Cashew. Brits are swapping dairy for plants, and coffee is going right along with it. (Our roasts play very nicely with oat, in case you’re wondering.)
Wellness in Your Cup: Adaptogens, turmeric, even mushrooms! Coffees with functional ingredients are finding their way into more routines, especially among health-conscious sippers.

All in all, it's a more thoughtful, more adventurous coffee scene. Whether you're brewing at home or ordering out, 2025 is all about flavour, ethics, and a little experimentation.

Regional Coffee Consumption Insights

York

York is home to a passionate coffee community that appreciates quality and craftsmanship. At York Emporium, we’re proud to serve our vibrant city with freshly roasted beans and expertly curated blends and single origins. Whether you prefer a smooth espresso or a bright filter coffee, York Emporium has the perfect beans to suit your taste.

London

London’s bustling coffee scene demands premium quality, and York Emporium’s range of coffees meets this with ease. From rich, balanced blends to vibrant single origins, our beans help coffee lovers across London enjoy café-quality brews at home or work.

Manchester

Manchester’s dynamic coffee culture calls for bold, flavourful coffees. York Emporium’s selection includes roasts designed to bring out the best in every cup, making it easier for Manchester drinkers to enjoy speciality coffee with authentic taste and freshness.

Glasgow

As Glasgow’s coffee scene grows, York Emporium supports coffee enthusiasts with a range of ethically sourced, freshly roasted beans. Our coffees bring variety and consistency to Glasgow homes and cafés alike.

Leicester

Leicester’s coffee drinkers can enjoy York Emporium’s carefully selected coffees, known for quality and sustainability. Whether you’re a fan of lighter roasts or richer blends, our beans cater to diverse preferences.

Hull

Hull’s coffee culture is on the rise, with York Emporium offering competitively priced, freshly roasted coffees. Our range is perfect for anyone wanting great flavour without compromising value.

Sheffield

Sheffield’s independent spirit aligns with York Emporium’s dedication to authentic, small-batch roasting. Our coffees reflect this ethos, delivering rich, nuanced flavours appreciated by discerning drinkers.

The 5 most popular coffees in the UK

(And How York Emporium Can Help You Brew Them)

Flat White
Our medium-roast blends are crafted to deliver the creamy texture and balanced flavour ideal for flat whites.
Latte
With smooth, mellow beans from York Emporium, you can create lattes that offer a perfect harmony of espresso strength and milky softness.
Americano
Try our bright single origins for a clean, vibrant cup that stands up beautifully when diluted into an Americano.
Cappuccino
York Emporium’s beans produce rich crema and deep flavour, perfect for a traditional cappuccino topped with thick foam.
Espresso
Our espresso-specific blends bring out bold, concentrated flavours that satisfy even the most demanding espresso lovers.

Which age group drinks the most coffee in the UK?

Understanding who drinks the most coffee in the UK can help coffee brands and enthusiasts tailor their offerings and marketing. According to recent statistics, Baby Boomers (ages 53-71) and Traditionalists (72 and older) are the heaviest coffee consumers, averaging about 2.2 cups per day. This means these older generations enjoy more coffee daily than younger groups such as Millennials and Generation X.

Coffee drinkers age breakdown

Baby Boomers (53-71 years): Leading coffee consumption, this group tends to favour classic brews and traditional coffee preparations, reflecting longstanding habits and appreciation for quality coffee.
Traditionalists (72+ years): Despite their age, this group drinks coffee regularly, often as part of daily routines and social rituals.
Generation X (38-52 years): Close behind, Gen Xers consume approximately 2.1 cups daily, balancing work and lifestyle demands with coffee breaks.
Millennials and Generation Z: These younger cohorts tend to drink less coffee daily, but show growing interest in speciality coffee, alternative brewing methods, and ethical sourcing.

What does this mean for coffee lovers?

Knowing that Baby Boomers and Traditionalists are the most frequent coffee drinkers highlights the importance of quality and consistency, especially for brands catering to this demographic. It also opens opportunities to engage younger audiences by focusing on emerging trends and new coffee experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions about Coffee

How much coffee is ideal per day?

Most health experts recommend consuming 2 to 3 cups of coffee per day as a moderate amount that can offer benefits without adverse effects. Drinking coffee in this range can boost alertness, focus, and overall mood. However, individual tolerance varies, so it’s important to listen to your body.

Can coffee be good for you?

Yes! Numerous studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption is associated with health benefits such as improved brain function, reduced risk of certain diseases (like Parkinson’s and type 2 diabetes), and antioxidant intake. Coffee also contains essential nutrients like vitamins B2 and B3.

What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee?

Arabica beans are known for their smooth, nuanced flavour and are typically grown at higher altitudes. Robusta beans contain more caffeine, have a stronger, more bitter taste, and are hardier plants. The choice between Arabica and Robusta affects the flavour, caffeine content, and brewing style of your coffee.

Where do Arabica beans come from?

Arabica coffee beans originate from the high-altitude regions of countries such as Ethiopia, Colombia, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. These areas provide the ideal growing conditions that contribute to Arabica’s characteristic sweet, fruity, and floral flavours.

What are the health benefits of drinking coffee?

Drinking coffee in moderation can support mental alertness, provide antioxidants, improve physical performance, and lower the risk of some chronic illnesses. It’s a great beverage to incorporate into a balanced diet.

Conclusion

The UK's coffee consumption statistics highlight the beverage's integral role in daily life across the nation. From the bustling streets of London to the community-focused cafés in Sheffield, each city offers a unique coffee experience. Understanding these regional and age preferences can help businesses and enthusiasts alike appreciate the diverse coffee culture thriving across the UK. From speciality coffee to chocolate coffee beans, we have a diverse range to suit your needs.

Sources

British Coffee Association – UK Coffee Consumption Data
Balance Coffee – UK Coffee Consumption Statistics 2024: https://balancecoffee.co.uk/blogs/blog/coffee-consumption-statistics-uk
Lavazza Pro – UK Coffee Market Statistics 2024: https://www.lavazzapro.co.uk/blog/2024-uk-coffee-statistics
Tea & Coffee Trade Journal – Best Cities for Coffee Enthusiasts: https://www.teaandcoffee.net/blog/35591/the-best-cities-in-the-uk-for-coffee-enthusiasts
Where and What in the World – UK’s Best Cities for Independent Coffee Shops: https://whereandwhatintheworld.com/2024/09/uks-best-cities-for-independent-coffee-shops.html
Coffee Culture York – https://coffee-culture.cafe
Forbes – Best Cities for Coffee Lovers UK: https://www.forbes.com/sites/kaitlynmcinnis/2024/11/22/these-are-the-best-cities-for-coffee-lovers-in-the-uk-according-to-new-analysis
The Guardian – The £5 Coffee Trend: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2024/apr/30/the-5-coffee-is-coming-but-should-we-swallow-it
Sixes Cricket Blog – Manchester Coffee Scene: https://blog.sixescricket.com/manchester-coffee-scene
The Times – Best Places to Eat and Drink in Scotland: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/best-places-to-eat-and-drink-in-scotland-this-week-qlntwz8rk
Art of It – Best Independent Cafés in Leicester: https://www.artofit.org/image-gallery/185984659602534299/the-best-independent-cafes-coffee-shops-in-le1-leicester
The Sun – Hull Foodie Guide: https://www.thesun.co.uk/travel/36021071/belfast-foodie-northern-ireland-pub-travel-staycation