What's brewing in 2020 for coffee lovers?

Photo by Chevanon Photography from Pexels

“It is important for us to keep tabs on international trends in tastes, flavours and formats, and then to work carefully with our customers to ensure that they remain relevant and on-trend,” Moss says.

So, what’s in store for the year ahead?

Non-dairy milk

“South African consumers typically enjoy their coffee with milk, making cappuccino and lattes firm favourites amongst coffee lovers,” Moss explains. “With that being said, we foresee that the popularity of Banting, plant-based diets and healthy eating plans will continue to gain traction in 2020, making milk alternative beverages more popular than ever before.”

While almond milk dominated the non-dairy space in 2019, Moss believes that 2020 will see coconut, rice, macadamia, cashew, hazelnut and oat milk options take their place at coffee spots nationwide.

Black coffee

“While the majority of the population opt to drink their coffee with milk, we are noticing a steady rise in black coffee. People are also starting to get to know and understand coffee and so consumers are expanding their knowledge about flavour profiles and coffee origins, helping them to determine the taste they want to get from their cup of coffee.

Furthermore, coffee enthusiasts are exploring alternative brewing methods and are starting to truly appreciate the glorious taste of coffee in its purest form,” Moss continues.

Iced coffee

This refreshing beverage is making a comeback in 2020. “In the past, iced coffee drinks were geared at a younger audience and were packed with sugars. The fad was also less focussed on the coffee aspect and more on the combination of coffee with flavours such as caramel or hazelnut,” Moss says.

Fast forward to 2020, the popularity of unsweetened iced coffee varieties is expected to explode. Globally, the cold brew method is turning into a mainstream hit because of its various serving options and its smooth profile. “This is certainly an interesting space to watch,” adds Moss.

Sustainable packaging

South Africa’s love for takeaway coffee contributes to the 54,2 million tonnes of general waste per year.

“In 2019, the demand for biodegradable and reusable cups was high and it’s showing no signs of slowing down as consumers become more environmentally conscious and the drive for responsible sourcing increases. At the end of the day, the future depends on the sustainable work we do now and so we are constantly looking at new ways to help our customers provide the best sustainable solutions.”

Woolworths introduces coffee cup recycling initiative in Western Cape

22 Jan 2020

Appearance is everything

Social media plays a big part in the visual representation of beverages and so South Africans have become more aware of the way in which they want to receive their coffee. One of the barista's key skills is the ability to create latte art. The scope for creativity has become more evident with the rise of barista competitions and overall presentation is playing a big part in the judging process.

“Developing a good coffee is as much about the taste as it is about the beautiful art and the glass or mug it’s presented in. Making a coffee that not only hits the spot but, that looks good, makes it a memorable experience, worth coming back for more (and photographing for social sharing)!”

South Africans are expecting higher standards from their coffee and so it is important for coffee experts to work together to help respond to the evolving tastes and demands of consumers in a sustainable way.