How cold brew is transforming coffee bean applications in retail drinks

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Written by Robert Gultig

30 March 2025

The Rise of Cold Brew Coffee in Retail Drinks

The Growing Trend of Cold Brew

Cold brew coffee has been gaining popularity in recent years, transforming the way coffee beans are used in retail drinks. Unlike traditional hot brewed coffee, cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, resulting in a smoother, less acidic flavor profile. This process has captured the attention of coffee enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, leading to a surge in demand for cold brew beverages in cafes, restaurants, and retail outlets.

Financial Impact of Cold Brew on the Coffee Industry

The cold brew trend has had a significant financial impact on the coffee industry. According to a report by Research and Markets, the global cold brew coffee market is expected to reach $1.63 billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate of 25.1% from 2020 to 2027. This rapid growth is driven by changing consumer preferences for smoother, less bitter coffee options, as well as the increasing availability of cold brew products in retail channels.
Major coffee companies such as Starbucks, Dunkin’, and Peet’s Coffee have all jumped on the cold brew bandwagon, offering their own versions of the trendy beverage to meet consumer demand. These companies have reported strong sales of cold brew products, with Starbucks attributing a portion of its revenue growth to the success of its cold brew offerings.

Transforming Coffee Bean Applications

Cold brew has also transformed the way coffee beans are used in retail drinks. The unique brewing process of cold brew extracts different flavor compounds from the coffee beans compared to hot brewing methods. This results in a smoother, less acidic taste that appeals to a wider range of coffee drinkers.
Coffee roasters and retailers have started to experiment with different coffee bean varieties specifically for cold brew. Some beans are roasted lighter to bring out more subtle flavors, while others are roasted darker for a bolder taste. This customization allows for a diverse range of cold brew options for consumers to enjoy.

Industry Insights and Market Trends

In addition to the financial impact and transformation of coffee bean applications, cold brew has also influenced market trends within the coffee industry. For example, many cafes and specialty coffee shops now offer nitro cold brew, which is infused with nitrogen gas to create a creamy, frothy texture similar to a stout beer. This innovative twist on cold brew has captured the attention of consumers looking for a unique coffee experience.
Furthermore, cold brew has paved the way for new product developments, such as ready-to-drink canned cold brew beverages and coffee cocktails. These convenient options have made cold brew more accessible to consumers on the go, further driving its popularity in the retail drinks market.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cold brew is transforming coffee bean applications in retail drinks by offering a smoother, less acidic alternative to traditional hot brewed coffee. The financial impact, industry insights, and market trends surrounding cold brew all point to its growing popularity and widespread adoption in the coffee industry. As consumer demand for cold brew continues to rise, we can expect to see further innovation and expansion in the cold brew market in the years to come.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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