Europe Ready to Drink Coffee Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

Europe Ready to Drink Coffee Market Analysis

The Europe Ready to Drink Coffee Market size is estimated at 2.79 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 4.09 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.91% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The European ready-to-drink coffee market is experiencing a significant transformation driven by evolving consumer health consciousness and lifestyle preferences. Health-aware consumers are increasingly seeking coffee beverages with reduced sugar content and functional benefits, particularly in markets like Germany, where approximately 8.5 million diagnosed diabetes cases and an estimated 2 million undiagnosed cases have been reported. This health-conscious trend has prompted manufacturers to develop innovative formulations incorporating functional ingredients like proteins and vitamins. The industry has responded by introducing sugar-free variants and products with natural sweeteners, while also emphasizing the inherent antioxidant properties of coffee drinks.

Sustainability has emerged as a crucial factor influencing consumer purchasing decisions and industry practices across Europe. In the Netherlands, a remarkable 78% of consumers reported considering sustainability in their purchasing decisions in 2022, driving manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions. Major players are increasingly transitioning to recyclable packaging materials, with glass bottles gaining particular traction due to their infinite recyclability and premium image. This shift is complemented by initiatives to reduce packaging waste and implement sustainable production practices throughout the supply chain.

The market is witnessing a surge in product innovation and flavor diversification to cater to evolving consumer preferences. In France, approximately 71% of consumers express a preference for clean-label products, prompting manufacturers to focus on natural ingredients and transparent sourcing practices. Leading brands are introducing unique flavor combinations and functional variants, including protein-enriched formulations and vitamin-fortified options. The industry has seen a particular emphasis on cold brew coffee innovations, with manufacturers exploring different brewing methods and flavor profiles to differentiate their offerings.

Distribution channels are evolving to meet changing consumer shopping habits, with a notable shift toward an omnichannel presence. Traditional retail remains significant, as evidenced by the fact that 83% of UK consumers purchased iced coffee from branded coffee chains in 2022. However, the market is seeing increased integration of digital platforms and direct-to-consumer models. Specialty stores are gaining prominence as premium distribution channels, while online retail is growing rapidly due to its convenience and broader product selection. Major brands are strengthening their presence across multiple channels while investing in digital capabilities to enhance customer engagement and service delivery.

Europe Ready to Drink Coffee Market Trends

The ease of consumption is the key factor driving the increasing sales of RTD coffee in the market

• The growing consumer demand for traceability and transparency in the value chain, as well as the growth in digital marketplaces, has intensified direct trade between producers and European roasters.
• Packaging is considered as one of the most important product attributes for RTD coffee products, which determines the likelihood of purchasing.
• RTD coffee retailers are often focused on optimizing their supply chain management and engage themselves to introduce new product lines or packaging options to provide consumers with more choices at different price points.
• RTD coffee holds a significant place in United Kingdom market and is widely consumed as a popular beverages, particularly in as a replacement of hot coffee.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

Segment Analysis: Soft Drink Type

Other RTD Coffee Segment in European Ready to Drink Coffee Market

The Other RTD Coffee segment, which includes RTD Cappuccino, RTD Espresso, RTD Caffe Mocha, RTD Flavored Coffee, and RTD Dairy-Free Coffee variants, dominates the European Ready to Drink Coffee market with approximately 45% market share in 2024. This segment's prominence can be attributed to the declining trend of carbonated drinks and the expanding range of coffee beverage options in the beverage landscape. The rising disposable income in developing economies is further fueling the growth of this segment. The emergence of RTD decaf coffee, RTD dairy-free coffee, and RTD flavored coffee is reshaping consumer preferences in the region, with these beverages now being enjoyed throughout the day and increasingly competing with traditional choices like tea, alcohol, and sodas. The demand for RTD dairy-free coffee is particularly strong among consumers with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or those seeking plant-based alternatives, with oat milk gaining significant traction among coffee enthusiasts.

Cold Brew Coffee Segment in European Ready to Drink Coffee Market

The Cold Brew Coffee segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in the European Ready to Drink Coffee market, with projections indicating robust growth through 2029. This surge in popularity can be attributed to rising consumer emphasis on adopting healthier lifestyles and increased awareness of the health benefits associated with RTD cold brew coffee. Cold brew coffee has gained significant traction in the coffeehouse market, owing to its reputation as a less bitter, highly aromatic, and naturally sweeter alternative to traditional ready-to-drink coffee options. The introduction of new flavor variants is poised to fuel the demand for cold brew coffee in Europe, as consumers increasingly favor it over traditional iced coffee. A significant portion of consumers cite a preference for cold brew due to its smoother taste and superior flavor, with many willing to pay a premium price for this variant.

Remaining Segments in Soft Drink Type

The Iced Coffee segment represents a significant portion of the European RTD coffee market, offering a diverse range of products including traditional iced coffee variants and specialty flavors. This segment benefits from the region's well-established brands like Costa Coffee, Starbucks, and Caffè Nero, which have cultivated a loyal following through their rich heritage and consistent quality. The segment's growth is closely tied to the consumption habits of Millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly gravitating towards iced coffee as a preferable, lower-sugar alternative that still delivers a caffeine boost. The segment's appeal is further enhanced by the burgeoning café culture, particularly among the younger demographic.

Segment Analysis: Packaging Type

Glass Bottles Segment in European RTD Coffee Market

Glass bottles dominate the European RTD coffee packaging market, commanding approximately 41% market share in 2024. This prominence stems from glass's unique ability to preserve product integrity through its non-reactive nature and superior barrier properties. Glass packaging resonates strongly with European consumers, with 9 out of 10 shoppers preferring it for food and beverage safety. The material's premium appeal and ability to maintain product freshness make it particularly attractive for RTD coffee manufacturers. Glass bottles are especially favored for their ability to withstand high temperatures during pasteurization or hot filling processes, while their resealable caps enhance convenience for on-the-go consumption. The segment's leadership is further reinforced by glass's infinite recyclability, with 80% of recovered glass being repurposed into new products without any quality loss.

Aseptic Packages Segment in European RTD Coffee Market

The aseptic packaging segment is experiencing remarkable growth in the European RTD coffee market, projected to expand at approximately 8% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This growth is driven by the segment's ability to extend product shelf life by 6 to 12 months without refrigeration, significantly enhancing supply chain efficiency. Aseptic packaging's effectiveness in eliminating microorganisms and enzymes ensures product freshness and safety, making it increasingly attractive to manufacturers. The segment's eco-friendly profile, with 76% of its primary material sourced from renewable resources, aligns perfectly with growing sustainability demands. The rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales further propels this segment's growth, as aseptic packaging ensures secure product transportation compared to traditional packaging options.

Remaining Segments in Packaging Type

Canned coffee and PET bottles complete the packaging landscape in the European RTD coffee market, each offering unique advantages. Canned coffee is particularly valued for its ability to rapidly cool contents and provide superior protection against light, making them ideal for preserving coffee beverage quality. The segment benefits from aluminum's high recyclability and the material's effectiveness in maintaining product freshness. PET bottles, meanwhile, continue to evolve with technological advancements in recycling and sustainability initiatives. The European Commission's push for increased recycled content in beverage containers has spurred innovation in PET packaging, while their lightweight nature and convenience make them popular among on-the-go consumers.

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

Off-trade Segment in European RTD Coffee Market

The off-trade channel dominates the European ready-to-drink coffee market, commanding approximately 71% of the total market value in 2024. This substantial market share can be attributed to the expanding network of supermarkets and hypermarkets across the region, which surpassed 80,985 outlets by 2023. The segment's prominence is further strengthened by the rising trend of consumers stockpiling and refrigerating RTD coffee beverages, particularly while working from home. Major retailers are actively expanding their footprint in response to increasing sales and demand, while simultaneously offering competitive pricing and frequent promotional activities. The convenience of purchasing RTD coffee products through various off-trade channels, coupled with the availability of a wide range of flavors and brands, continues to drive consumer preference for this distribution channel.

Specialty Stores Segment in European RTD Coffee Market

Specialty stores are emerging as the fastest-growing distribution channel in the European RTD coffee market, with projections indicating robust growth through 2024-2029. This channel's rapid expansion is driven by the rising number of specialty roasters, coffee shops, and local coffee brands capturing European consumers' attention. Premium coffee chains like Starbucks are strengthening their presence in the specialty segment, as evidenced by the increase in branded coffee chain outlets to over 40,675. The segment's growth is further fueled by consumers' increasing preference for premium and artisanal coffee beverage experiences, with specialty stores offering unique blends and innovative brewing methods. These stores also provide expert knowledge and personalized recommendations, enhancing the overall customer experience and fostering brand loyalty among coffee enthusiasts.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The European RTD coffee market's distribution landscape is further diversified through various other channels, including convenience stores, online retail, and on-trade establishments. Convenience stores play a vital role in serving the on-the-go consumption needs of busy consumers, particularly in urban areas and transportation hubs. The online retail channel has gained significant traction, leveraging advanced delivery methods and digital payment solutions to enhance customer convenience. On-trade establishments, including cafes, restaurants, and food service outlets, contribute to the market's growth by offering premium RTD coffee experiences and capitalizing on the social aspects of prepared coffee consumption. Each of these channels serves distinct consumer preferences and occasions, contributing to the market's overall dynamism and accessibility.

Europe Ready to Drink Coffee Market Geography Segment Analysis

Ready to Drink Coffee Market in Germany

Germany stands as the powerhouse of Europe's ready to drink coffee market, commanding approximately 20% of the region's market share in 2024. The country's dominance can be attributed to its robust coffee processing industry, with major players like Tchibo and Jacobs leading the sector. German consumers are increasingly gravitating towards healthier coffee drinks options, particularly those with lower sugar content and functional ingredients. This shift is particularly evident among health-conscious consumers who are seeking alternatives to traditional sugary beverages. The market's strength is further reinforced by Germany's position as Europe's top coffee importer, maintaining strong trade relationships with major coffee-producing nations like Brazil and Vietnam. The country's sophisticated distribution network, coupled with its well-established retail infrastructure, ensures widespread product availability. Additionally, the growing trend of premium and specialty bottled coffee consumption among German consumers has led manufacturers to introduce innovative flavors and formulations, particularly in the cold brew coffee segment.

Ready to Drink Coffee Market in Russia

Russia's RTD coffee market is experiencing remarkable momentum, with projections indicating approximately 10% growth annually from 2024 to 2029. The market's explosive growth is driven by a fundamental shift in consumer preferences, particularly among millennials and Gen-Z demographics who are increasingly seeking convenient coffee beverage options. The country's ready to drink coffee landscape is witnessing a significant transformation with the introduction of innovative flavors and ingredient combinations, ranging from fruit-infused varieties to mocha and vanilla variants. Russian consumers are showing a growing appreciation for premium beverages, including sugar-free options, which is prompting manufacturers to expand their product portfolios. The market's evolution is further supported by the rising trend of online retail, which has become a key distribution channel for RTD coffee products. Local and international brands are actively introducing new product variants to cater to the diverse preferences of Russian consumers, particularly focusing on cold brew coffee and iced coffee options.

Ready to Drink Coffee Market in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom's ready to drink coffee market demonstrates remarkable dynamism, driven by a strong coffee culture and evolving consumer preferences. The country's market is characterized by a significant presence of branded coffee chains and a growing appetite for premium and specialty coffee products. British consumers, particularly the younger demographic, show a strong inclination towards cold brew coffee and iced coffee variants, with a notable preference for sugar-free and dairy-free alternatives. The market's growth is supported by robust distribution networks, including both traditional retail channels and emerging digital platforms. The UK's RTD coffee landscape is marked by continuous innovation in flavors and formulations, with manufacturers focusing on functional benefits and natural ingredients. The country's vibrant café culture has significantly influenced ready to drink coffee consumption patterns, with consumers increasingly seeking café-quality experiences in convenient, bottled coffee formats.

Ready to Drink Coffee Market in France

France's ready to drink coffee market exhibits a unique character, shaped by the country's sophisticated beverage culture and changing consumer preferences. The French market is witnessing a notable shift towards healthier beverage options, with consumers actively seeking alternatives to heavily sweetened drinks. The country's RTD coffee segment is characterized by a strong presence of premium brands and a growing emphasis on quality and authenticity. French consumers demonstrate a particular appreciation for glass-bottled coffee drinks products, viewing them as more premium and environmentally conscious choices. The market's evolution is further driven by innovative product launches and strategic investments by major players. Distribution channels in France are well-developed, with specialty stores and supermarkets playing crucial roles in product accessibility. The country's ready to drink coffee landscape is also influenced by its strong café culture, which has helped shape consumer expectations for quality and taste.

Ready to Drink Coffee Market in Other Countries

The ready to drink coffee market across other European countries, including Spain, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Turkey, showcases diverse consumption patterns and growth trajectories. These markets are characterized by varying levels of coffee culture maturity and consumer preferences. In Southern European countries, there is a growing acceptance of RTD coffee as an alternative to traditional coffee consumption methods. Northern European markets demonstrate a stronger inclination towards premium and innovative ready to drink coffee products. The market development in these countries is supported by robust retail infrastructure and increasing consumer awareness about different coffee variants. Each country exhibits unique consumption patterns influenced by local tastes and preferences, with some markets showing a stronger preference for cold brew coffee while others lean towards traditional iced coffee variants. The competitive landscape in these markets is marked by a mix of international brands and local players, each bringing their unique offerings to cater to specific regional preferences.

Free With This Report

We provide a comprehensive and exhaustive set of data pointers for global, regional, and country-level metrics that illustrate the fundamentals of the soft drinks industry. With the help of 45+ free charts, clients can access in-depth market analysis based on price trend analysis of per capita spending on various soft drinks, through granular-level segmental information supported by a repository of market data, trends, and expert analysis. Data and analysis on soft drink category, packaging type, distribution channel insights into consumer preferences and purchasing patterns, an overview of key market players, etc., are available in the form of comprehensive reports as well as excel-based data worksheets.