While the Covid-19 pandemic altered the way millions of people live, it also paved the way for several conveniences.
For instance, when countries were ordered to shelter in place, home deliveries of food, groceries, and other essentials went from being a luxury to a necessity.
Within the coffee industry, this has given rise to sales for more convenient coffee packaging options, such as capsules and drip coffee bags, as well as an increase in takeaway coffee orders.
As tastes and trends in the sector evolve, roasters and coffee shops must adapt to meet the needs of the younger, always-on-the-go generation.
Coffee products that reduce the time spent in lines, or the need to grind and brew whole beans could be the answer they are looking for – without having to sacrifice quality.
Read on to find out how coffee businesses can cater to consumers seeking convenience and high-quality coffee.
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter
Sign up!The importance of convenience to coffee consumers
The steady rise in delivery services can be seen across every industry, from consumers of every age.
Essentially, before and after the pandemic, convenience was a priority for consumers. Research shows 9 out of 10 consumers are more likely to choose brands based on convenience alone.
Additionally, 97% of consumers have backed out of a purchase because it was inconvenient for them.
Takeaway coffee is an exceptionally convenient product, as it provides easy, fast access to barista-quality coffee. Notably, the global takeaway coffee market was worth $37.8 billion in 2022.
The effects of the pandemic saw consumers order more takeaway coffees as they were unable to sit in at their favourite cafes.
For example, between January and February 2020, Starbucks Korea experienced a 32% increase in sales – simply because of takeaway coffee orders.
On the other hand, those who were unable to afford daily takeaways turned to instant coffee.
With a global market value of more than $12 billion, instant coffee has been gaining popularity as more high-quality beans are used.
It is a convenient option for those who do not have the time to brew coffee every day, but want to have a cup before they leave the house.
How can roasters & coffee shops cater for convenience?
Finding ways to lower the barriers between convenience and the consumption of high-quality coffee has become a focus for many coffee businesses.
For instance, research shows the rise of on-the-go lifestyles has left consumers wanting the stimulating effects of coffee. This has led to an increase in the popularity of ready-to-drink coffee.
Notably, in 2019, the global ready-to-drink coffee market was valued at $22.44 billion, with a projection to reach $42.36 billion by 2027.
The convenient ready-to-drink coffee market has many convenient options for consumers.
Canned coffee
Originally a Japanese innovation, canned coffee has grown in popularity in western countries thanks to companies such as Starbucks and Costa Coffee.
In short, it refers to cold coffee packaged in tin cans that are often found at cafes and convenience stores. These provide customers with an easy grab-and-go coffee option at an affordable price.
A recent study conducted in the US found 69% of cold brew drinkers have tried canned coffee.
Cold brew coffee
Essentially, cold brew coffee is made by steeping coffee grounds in water at or below room temperature for up to 24 hours until all the soluble flavour compounds have been extracted.
The result of this slow infusion is a smooth, sweet-tasting drink that can either be bottled up or placed in a container for easy serving throughout the day.
Recent data suggests coffee consumers between the ages of 18 and 34 are more interested in purchasing cold brew offerings. This is 11% higher than those 35 years and older.
In addition to convenience, the popularity of cold brew may be attributed to its supposed health benefits. Younger generations have a renewed focus on health, which may have a powerful influence on their drinking and purchasing habits.
For coffee businesses, cold brew offerings can help save time for baristas, as they can be pre-made. This could lead to higher sales in a short time frame.
Drip coffee bags
Another convenient coffee option for consumers comes in the form of drip coffee bags.
Essentially, there are small paper pouches containing ground coffee that can be suspended over a cup. Boiling water is then poured into the pouch, which acts as a filter for the coffee.
Drip coffee bags are a fast, easy alternative to cafetiere and filter coffee for those who want quality coffee.
According to recent statistics, drip coffee is fast overtaking many other instant coffee alternatives. This may be due to the eco-friendly packaging and health benefits associated, as black coffee accounts for over 51.2% of coffee consumer revenue.
Bag coffeemaker
One of the latest, and possibly lesser known, innovations to enter the coffee market is the bag coffeemaker.
Bag coffeemakers are flexible coffee pouches fitted with filter paper, and work similarly to drip coffee bags.
Essentially, consumers tear open the top of the pouch and unscrew the spout to pull the pouch open and level the ground coffee inside.
Hot water is then poured into the filter pocket of the pouch and over the grounds. The bag is then sealed using a resealable zipper, the spout is screwed closed and the coffee is left to brew for a few minutes.
Consumers then unscrew the spout and pour freshly brewed specialty coffee into a cup.
Important factors to consider when packaging coffee for convenience
Regardless of how a roastery or coffee shop chooses to cater to convenience, they must prioritise the freshness of their product.
For instance, it is essential cold brew and canned coffees are stored in cool, dark conditions. This prevents the coffee from overheating, which may alter the final taste.
Ground coffee intended for drip coffee bags should be packaged in airtight coffee bags to ensure it retains its aromatic compounds. The best way to achieve both is through high-quality coffee packaging.
MTPak Coffee provides drip coffee filter bags that are portable, compact and convenient for customers on-the-go.
Our drip coffee bags are lightweight, tear-resistant, and highly customisable. Additionally, they come with recyclable and compostable material options. Our drip coffee bags can be packaged individually or in custom drip coffee boxes.
We also offer RTD pouches made from recyclable and biodegradable materials, with several customisation options and accessories, including degassing valves, spouts, and ziplock seals.
MTPak Coffee offers our clients a quick turnaround time of 40-hours and 24-hour shipping time.
We also offer low minimum order quantities (MOQs) to micro-roasters who are looking to remain agile while showcasing brand identity and a commitment to the environment.
