Plant-based beverages & wellbeing: New trends in the coffee world

The coffee industry is evolving dynamically, with consumer preferences being shaped by modern trends such as sustainability, healthy eating, and the pursuit of superior taste experiences. The growing popularity of plant-based beverages reflects the broader shift in consumer habits toward choices that promote wellbeing and sustainable development.

Why Are Plant-Based Beverages Becoming More Popular?

According to recent research, the European market for plant-based beverages reached $9.65 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $22.03 billion by 2032, with an annual growth rate of 10.87%. The key factors driving this rise include:

• Dietary Preferences: Increasing awareness of dietary choices is leading consumers to prefer drinks made with plant-based milks like almond, soy, coconut, and oat milk.
• Sustainability: Consumers are increasingly opting for products with a smaller environmental footprint, such as plant-based milks that require fewer natural resources.
• Technological Innovation: The coffee industry is investing in new technologies to enhance the taste and texture of plant-based beverages, making them more appealing.
• Consumers want to customize their beverages to suit their preferences, creating unique coffee recipes.
  

In everyday life, more and more consumers are looking for options that align with their lifestyle. It’s becoming increasingly common to hear someone order a freddo cappuccino with plant-based milk, wanting to stick to their favorite routine without compromising their dietary preferences.

Nespresso Professional Solutions

• Steamer Pro: Exceptional performance with plant-based milks, featuring an easy-to-use display screen and three automatic temperature programs.
• Nespresso Barista: A user-friendly device with a built-in touchscreen that connects via mobile for automatic preparation of various coffee recipes. Easily prepares both hot and cold drinks.
• Aeroccino: An ideal compact solution for easy milk frothing – cappuccinos and other drinks with hot or cold frothed milk, such as latte macchiato, flat white, cortado, etc.

Recommended Coffee Blends

To create exceptional beverages with plant-based milks, Nespresso Professional recommends custom-designed coffee blends, such as:

• Caffé Vanilio, Caffé Caramello, and Caffé Nocciola, perfect for coffee drinks with aromatic notes that blend beautifully with plant-based milks.
• Bianco Intenso and Bianco Delicato, ideal for cappuccinos and latte macchiatos with plant-based milk.

The Dynamic Nature of the Coffee Industry

The shift toward plant-based coffee beverages is growing at an impressive pace, and it’s essential for professionals in the industry to keep up with these changing consumer demands. Nespresso Professional provides solutions that streamline the coffee-making process while enhancing both the flavor and the customer experience.

Innovation and adaptation are key to success in today’s coffee landscape, whether you’re in the hospitality industry, running a café, or working in an office setting. With the right equipment and a range of espresso coffee options, professionals can deliver unique and satisfying coffee experiences that meet the evolving needs of today’s consumers.

It’s exciting to witness the transformation of coffee culture, as it embraces new dietary choices. The future of coffee is dynamic, full of challenges and opportunities—and we’re here to help shape it together.