Rising Demand for Iced Beverages Among Younger Generations
A significant shift in consumer behavior has been observed, particularly among younger generations, as they drive an increase in the popularity of iced beverages. This trend is not limited to warm weather and has become a year-round preference, according to a recent report. The findings highlight that almost three-quarters (74%) of consumers under 35 regularly purchase iced drinks, nearly double the proportion of those over 55, who only make up 40%.
This data comes from the latest Spring and Summer Trends and Insights Report by Beyond the Bean, a UK-based coffee syrup manufacturer. The report analyzed trends across several countries, including Ireland, the UK, the US, Canada, Denmark, and Poland. It reveals that iced beverage consumption has increased by 26.7% since 2023, largely driven by Millennials and Gen Z.
Sheila Dowling, Commercial Director at Bewley’s, noted that this generation consumes cold drinks throughout the year, not just during the summer months. “There is speculation that younger people will eventually revert to hot coffee, but I don’t think that will be the case,” she said. She pointed to sales data from Starbucks in the US, where 80% of their coffee is now served cold.
Weekly Consumption and Affordability
The trend analysis also found that individuals under 30 who drink iced beverages make a purchase every week. In fact, winter consumption among this group is six percentage points higher than the average across all other age categories. Despite the rising cost of coffee, which has reached global highs this year, Dowling suggests that coffee may still be seen as an affordable luxury for younger consumers.
“Where people have disposable income is in colleges and universities – they are more likely to spend their income than save for the rainy day,” she explained. The industry price of coffee has risen sharply, with Bewley’s reporting that it more than doubled compared to this time last year. This increase has implications for both retailers and customers, as it affects people’s budgets.
However, despite these price hikes, coffee continues to be perceived as a treat. “Anecdotally, we hear that so many things have gone up in price, but coffee is seen as an affordable luxury,” Dowling added.
Regional and Gender Differences
According to the Allegra Project Café Ireland 2025 report, published in April, 18.7% of respondents order iced coffee weekly, compared to 25.2% who choose hot coffee. There are also gender differences, with 25.2% of males and 21.7% of females purchasing hot coffee weekly. In contrast, 18.7% of both genders opt for iced coffee.
Geographic factors also play a role, with those living in Dublin more likely to order iced coffee. A total of 23.5% of Dublin residents purchase iced coffee weekly, compared to 16% outside the county. Additionally, over a third of people under 35 in Ireland (31.7%) buy iced coffee monthly, while only 10.2% choose hot coffee over the same period.
Innovating for Cold Brew Demand
To meet the growing demand for cold brew, Bewley’s has spent 18 months sourcing the best cold brew product for the Irish market. The company’s Columbian Fairtrade Cold Brew process involves steeping coffee grounds in cool water, resulting in a less acidic flavor. Unlike traditional brewing methods, the ground coffee beans never come into contact with heated water, creating a unique chemical profile and taste.
Dowling described the difference between cold brew and hot espresso over ice as similar to comparing two types of apples. “It isn’t that the hot espresso over ice option is bad, but it is like comparing pink lady and granny smith apples – they’re very different,” she said.
