Inflation remains a major concern for consumers worldwide, with many worried about rising prices and the risk of an economic downturn.[1]
While financial sentiment is improving for a portion of Canadians, many remain cautious amid ongoing tariffs and trade tensions. This economic uncertainty and persistent inflation are driving changes in coffee purchasing behaviour. Yet, consumers are still spending on dining out, they are simply becoming more selective, making choices with greater intention and value in mind.
[1] NIQ 2025 Consumer Outlook Survey
Keep Calm and Sip On
Even with ongoing tariffs and rising coffee prices, Canadians aren’t giving up their daily coffee ritual. Coffee remains a staple, with three in four Canadians enjoying a cup just yesterday.[2]
In fact, 76% report that they haven’t changed the type of coffee they buy.[3] Despite price fluctuations, consumers are still finding ways to savour their favourite beverages, particularly espresso-based drinks. These beverages have continued to grow over the past few years, even as Canadians adopt a more financially conservative mindset.
What makes espresso drinks especially appealing outside the home is the quality and expertise cafes bring, something difficult to replicate. Investing in staff training, maintaining equipment, and consistently serving high-quality coffee can help operators drive business.
[2] Coffee Association of Canada June 2025 Report
[3] Coffee Association of Canada June 2025 Report
Trend essentials: Canterbury’s Coffee Catalogue, Barista Training, Canterbury’s Equipment Program.
Experiences First
Canadians make an average of 23 million restaurant visits each day, but how operators capture those visits is evolving.[4] Today, six in ten consumers prioritize experiences over products.[5] Alongside classic drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, cafés are now offering cold brews, nitro coffee, and beverages with flavoured syrup add-ins.
Gen Z is driving the demand for new and seasonal flavours like peppermint, gingerbread, macadamia nut, or white chocolate, seeking unique, indulgent experiences and dining out when their budgets allow.
For operators, this is an opportunity to create memorable coffee moments through visually striking latte art, seasonal offerings, or personalized drinks. By making each cup a moment worth remembering, cafés can strengthen loyalty, encourage repeat visits, and deepen their connection with customers.
[4] Restaurants Canada Foodservice Facts 2025
[5] Marketing to Millennials – Canada, 2025
Trend essentials: Torani Peppermint Syrup, Torani Macadamia Nut Syrup, Torani White Chocolate Sauce, Torani Gingerbread Syrup.
Lattes and Loyalty
As consumers increasingly seek value, having the right loyalty program can help restaurants drive traffic, attract new guests, and retain existing ones. This is particularly true for Gen Z, who look for affordable luxuries.[6]
Currently, one third of full-service restaurants and half of quick-service restaurants in Canada offer loyalty programs. In fact, 84% of Canadians agree that loyalty programs provide extra value and enhance the overall experience.[7]
For operators, launching or improving a loyalty program doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple strategies can have a big impact. Offer bundled products like coffee with a pastry at a fixed price and design the pricing so the business remains profitable while customers feel they’re getting a deal.
Other effective approaches include creating tiered rewards to encourage repeat visits, personalizing offers based on customer preferences, and regularly reviewing program incentives to keep them appealing. By making loyalty programs easy, rewarding, and seamlessly integrated into the guest experience, cafés can drive repeat visits, strengthen customer relationships, and boost revenue.
[6] Circana Canada February 2025
[7] Restaurants Canada Foodservice Facts 2024
Trend essentials: Canterbury’s Coffee Catalogue
Canterbury offers beverage solutions to meet your business’s needs. Contact Canterbury today for recipe and menu support.
