In today’s fast-paced world, coffee is no longer just a beverage—it has become a cultural symbol, connecting busy mornings, leisurely afternoons, and even late-night moments of inspiration. From small independent cafés on quiet streets to large chains in bustling business districts, and from classic espressos to creative specialty blends, the aroma of coffee fills every corner of the city.
1. The Coffee Industry: From Niche to Mainstream
Once considered a “niche” drink reserved for bohemian youth and urban professionals, coffee has in recent years experienced explosive growth in China.
According to industry data, by 2024 the size of China’s coffee market had exceeded 300 billion RMB and is expected to maintain rapid growth in the coming years.
In 2023, China’s total coffee imports reached USD 1.11 billion, up 0.5% year-on-year. Over the past decade, imports recorded a compound annual growth rate of 13.6%, 2.3 percentage points higher than overall food imports. Coffee import volume reached 197,000 tons, up 12.3%, reflecting steady growth in demand for imported coffee.
2. New Directions in the Coffee Market
In 2024, chain coffee brands remain the dominant players. Luckin Coffee surpassed 20,000 stores nationwide, while Cotti Coffee quickly expanded to more than 9,300 outlets. These brands are not only densifying their networks in tier-one cities but also aggressively entering tier-two and tier-three markets, injecting great vitality into the sector.
Specialty coffee is no longer confined to niche circles but is increasingly moving into the mainstream.
The size of the specialty coffee market in 2024 is expected to reach 27.9 billion RMB, with a compound annual growth rate of 22.7% over the past five years. Consumers’ pursuit of higher quality and unique flavors is fueling this rapid expansion.
3. The New Demands of Consumers
Coffee consumption is no longer just about boosting energy. Health and functionality have become new consumer priorities. Low-sugar and low-fat coffee products are especially popular among fitness enthusiasts, while coffees boasting antioxidant or metabolism-boosting properties are also gaining traction.
At the same time, consumption scenarios are becoming increasingly diverse. Whether in offices, cafés, outdoor camping sites, or bookstores, consumers want to enjoy coffee wherever they are. Personalized and customizable coffee products and services are also becoming a new battleground for brand competition.
Looking ahead, the fusion of coffee with other categories—such as tea drinks, baked goods, and desserts—will be a major trend. Pairings like coffee + bagel or coffee + meat pie not only satisfy evolving consumer tastes but also open up fresh growth opportunities for brands.
