How the pandemic has changed coffee consumption

For true java lovers, coffee is not a want—it’s a need. Even a global pandemic couldn’t curb our collective coffee cravings. As consumer habits shifted naturally with the circumstances, people remained committed to coffee, but in a slightly different capacity. Mainly, the pandemic influenced how and where consumers enjoy their coffee—not whether they enjoy it at all.?

While things are gradually getting back to what we once considered “normal,” the pandemic has proven to actually have a paradoxically positive impact on the coffee industry, as people’s drinking habits remained relatively unchanged. In fact, several studies found that coffee consumption increased considerably during the covid era—and the trend seems to be here to stay.

Trends in coffee consumption during the pandemic?

Prior to the pandemic, about 80% of coffee drinkers brewed their own beverages at home, and naturally, that number rose sharply during lockdown. The most-reported change for coffee consumers during Covid-19 was that people made even more coffee at home. That being said, cravings for the classic coffee shop culture remained, as people were eager to visit coffee shops as things began reopening.?

Other noteworthy recent trends in the coffee space include sustainability and ethical production—two key pillars that Balzac’s Coffee Roasters is proud to uphold. A recent survey found that 43% of global coffee consumers genuinely care that their java is ethically sourced and environmentally friendly. Despite the pandemic, sustainability is still a priority.?

Meanwhile, demand for specialized beans remains high. Even amid a global health crisis, people care about premium specialty blends, with unique tastes and notes. True coffee lovers are unwilling to lower their standards when it comes to taste—and it’s our belief that they shouldn’t have to.?

While people are still willing to pay for high-quality coffee and innovative brewing methods, it’s likely that value-focused deals will become a critical part of coffee’s future, as the threat of a global recession looms.?

Naturally, during lockdown, app-based coffee ordering and delivery services skyrocketed, and drive-through ordering increased, too. Generally, overall coffee consumption was relatively unchanged during the pandemic (as aforementioned, it might have even increased), though some specialized beverages – such as espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes – experienced a decline, since those drinks are more difficult to make at home without sophisticated equipment.?

How the coffee shop industry survived covid?

Coffee shops around the globe took a seriously hard hit at the onset of the pandemic. Think about all the times you used to pick up a coffee on your way to work—or during an afternoon break. The initial effects of lockdown took a severe toll on coffee shops near and far. Statistics Canada observed a 40% decline in revenue for food services and drinking places in 2020, compared to 2019.

Although coffee shops are still recovering from the perils of the pandemic, there is hope on the horizon. Historically speaking, coffee shops have shown to be recession-resistant, as coffee is a basic need for most people, and many cafes are beloved as long-standing staples in countless communities.?

Cafes have already seen a notable uptick in patrons in the summer months, and thanks to ongoing neighborhood and community support, many local spots are staying open. On the whole, coffee shop operators have adapted to the changing times, investing heavily in mobile ordering, takeaway, and drive-through offerings.?

Coffee in the post-pandemic environment?

Given the surge in demand for contactless services, it’s likely that there will be a continued emphasis on mobile ordering and app-driven purchases for years to come. Even as patrons giddily return to their favorite coffee shops, they are more likely to place their orders in advance and pick them up, rather than wait in line.?

As far as coffee roasters go, since so many consumers have become at-home baristas during the pandemic, sales should continue to stay steady. While we continue to navigate the ever-changing pandemic landscape, Canadians’ coffee cravings are here to stay, and specialty blends are still a top priority for many dedicated drinkers.?

We believe the global coffee trade will continue to be like our morning cup of joe: strong.