Explore the evolving hot beverage market in the UK, from the rise of premium home coffee to new tea preferences and indulgent hot chocolate trends.

Hot beverages remain a comforting staple for UK consumers – but the market is undergoing a shift. From convenience-led coffee habits to evolving tea preferences, there’s strong demand for brands that offer both quality and familiarity. At UF International, we help our global partners tap into this vibrant category, exporting a diverse range of hot drinks that meet modern tastes.

Coffee Culture: Home Brewing Dominates

With 65% of UK adults drinking coffee at home, the shift toward convenient, high-quality formats is clear. Instant coffee continues to lead the way, accounting for 80% of all home-prepared coffee, but coffee pod machines are growing in popularity.

UK preferences show a love for flavour variety:

• 35% prefer lattes

• 28% Americanos

• 20% Cappuccinos

• 15% Flat Whites

• 12% Espressos

Men are more likely to be regular coffee drinkers (64%) than women (46%), and older generations – including Baby Boomers and Traditionalists – drink an average of 2.2 cups per day.

📊 Top Instant Coffee Brands
The total category saw +3.4% growth in value and +4.1% in volume. Standout performers include:

• Costa Coffee +17.8%

• Starbucks +51.2%

• Maxwell House +21.4%

• Mokate +19.2%

This shows strong brand equity and interest in premium-style coffee at home.

Tea Trends: Tradition Meets Innovation

Tea drinking remains a national habit, with 64% of Brits needing a cuppa to start the day. While 84% use tea bags, loose leaf is gaining traction, especially among 30–44-year-olds.

Interestingly, 32% now add milk to herbal infusions, showing how traditional methods are evolving. And when it comes to pairing tea with snacks, sweet biscuits lead the way (48%), followed by chocolate biscuits and cake.

📈 Top Tea Performers
The total tea category is up +10.4% in value, though slightly down in volume (-0.5%). Leading brands include:

• Yorkshire Tea +17.3%

• Twinings +9.5%

• Tetley +13.2%

• Clipper +21.5%

• Teapigs +14.1%

• Typhoo +30.2%

• Drink Me Chai +43.1%

Brand News: British Airways is now serving Birchall tea on all flights, recognising its superior taste and sustainable sourcing. This milestone further cements Birchall’s position as a premium British brand in the global tea market.

Hot Chocolate & Malted Drinks: Indulgence Still Matters

Though traditionally seen as an indulgence, hot chocolate is holding its place in UK homes. The total category grew +3.0% in value, despite a volume decline.

Top Movers:

• Galaxy +23.0%

• Horlicks +13.9%

• Twinings +27.3% (notable for malted or functional infusions)

• Milo +9.0%

Brands with nostalgic appeal and those offering added health or comfort benefits are performing well.

New to Range: Value Hot Beverages from Mokate

A top 10 coffee brand in the UK, Mokate is expanding its presence with value-focused tea, coffee, and hot chocolate options. With +19% YoY growth, it’s a rising star for retailers and wholesalers looking for affordable, trusted products.

Opportunities for Global Buyers

From premium teas to convenient coffee and indulgent chocolate drinks, the UK’s hot beverage market continues to evolve. At UF International, we offer:

✅ Trusted brands and emerging players
✅ Supply chain expertise in global distribution
✅ Support for retailers and foodservice businesses alike

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