Supplier spotlight: The Roaster
What, in the past year, have been some of the most interesting novelties introduced?
If you are one of those people who cannot decide between tea or coffee, you are in luck. Coffee – Tea, as it is referred to, is drying the coffee cherry husk and mixing it with tea blends. Sales of coffee-infused teas increased throughout 2016 and are expected to gain more traction in 2017. Manufacturers are creating some interesting and delicious blends including Ethiopian coffee mixed with organic Moroccan mint tea and green tea mixed with French roast coffee.
What are the changes you expect to see throughout the coffee industry?
Overall, as shoppers prioritize experience over price, consumption of gourmet and specialty coffee beverages is on the rise. Even for brands that have not traditionally operated in the specialty space, opening up a luxury line could pay off in 2017. Increased interest in the cold brew industry is further fragmenting the sector into subcategories and introducing consumers to innovations that have yet to enter the coffee category. In addition, a growing awareness among consumers has led coffee companies to improve the quality of organic coffee, fair trade coffee and specialized coffee brewing techniques. More nitro coffee products will be available in 2017, which have a smooth and creamy taste similar to craft beer. The coffee is stored in a keg at high pressure or bottled. Manufacturers are expected to jump into this trend in 2017 and we will see many more nitro cold brew coffees in stores, with coffee shops and offices offering these coffees on tap.