Instant Coffee Market Size

Instant Coffee Market Size & Share:

The global instant coffee market size reached USD 14.7 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 21.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5% during 2025-2033. There are various factors that are driving the market, which include the increasing demand for enhanced convenience among people with busy lifestyles, rising focus on health and wellness, and the wide availability of products via several distribution channels.

Instant Coffee Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: One of the key market drivers includes continuous innovations in flavors. Moreover, there is an increase in the focus on sustainable and ethical sourcing of products, which is acting as another growth-inducing factor.
• Key Market Trends: The rising demand for enhanced convenience among people with busy lifestyles and the increasing focus on health and wellness are significant instant coffee market trends.
• Geographical Trends: Europe exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the biggest market share because of the escalating demand for eco-friendly product packaging.
• Competitive Landscape: Various market players in the instant coffee industry are Nestle, Starbucks Corporation, Matthew Algie & Company Ltd., Kraft Foods Inc., Tata Consumer Products Limited, Strauss Group Ltd., Jacobs Douwe Egberts, Tchibo Coffee International Ltd., among many others.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Perception of inferior quality represents a key market challenge. Nonetheless, several collaborations and partnerships among key players, coupled with rising preferences for personalized taste experience, are projected to overcome these challenges and provide market opportunities.  

Why is Demand for Instant Coffee Increasing across the Globe?

Rising Consumer Demand for Convenience

On 18 April 2023, Nestlé launched its first instant coffee designed for iced beverages in response to the increasing demand for cold coffee at home. Nescafé ice roast product was initially debuted in China. It offers enhanced convenience to people with busy lifestyles. People are preferring products that require less time and effort for preparation. Instant coffee offers a quick, simple, and hassle-free way of preparing a cup of coffee by adding coffee powder in hot water. Moreover, manufacturers are introducing innovative product offerings, such as the development of single-serve packaging and ready-to-mix sachets, which is propelling the instant coffee market size.

Increasing Focus on Health and Wellness

The industry is expanding because consumers are becoming concerned about their health and placing more emphasis on wellness and health. People are seeking coffee products that offer additional health benefits such as those containing functional components like vitamins and minerals. This is driving the demand for coffee products that contain ingredients like green tea extract, ginseng, and guarana on account of their health benefits. Apart from this, rising cases of obesity and diabetes among individuals worldwide is catalyzing the demand for green coffee owing to its ability to enhance metabolism and support weight management. In addition, top producers are emphasizing the launch of goods made with natural and healthful components in an effort to reach a larger audience and increase their instant coffee market revenue. For instance, on 21 September 2023, the Devon-based Little’s unveiled a new Limited edition pumpkin spice instant coffee for consumers.

Expansion of Distribution Channels

The expansion of offline distribution channels such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and general stores is offering lucrative growth opportunities to industry players. Apart from this, the burgeoning e-commerce industry, along with the rising consumer reliance on online shopping platforms, is impelling the instant coffee market growth. In addition, online retail channels are offering a diverse range of products, exciting deals and discounts, free home delivery services, and online payment methods, which are catalyzing the instant coffee demand. Online platforms also provide access to consumer reviews and ratings, helping potential buyers make informed decisions and increasing their confidence in purchasing new or unfamiliar instant coffee products. Furthermore, various companies are collaborating with online channels to expand their market reach. They are also focusing on introducing their products to a diverse distribution channel in order to increase their overall product sales. For example, on 26 April 2024, Little’s Coffee launched toffee nut flavored pods and instant coffee. These products are available on Little’s website, Ocado, and to Amazon.

Instant Coffee Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global and regional levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on packaging, product type, and distribution channel.

Breakup by Packaging:

• Jar
• Pouch
• Sachet
• Others
   

Pouch accounts for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the packaging. This includes jar, pouch, sachet, and others. According to the report, pouch represented the largest segment.

A pouch is lightweight and compact because it is made from flexible materials like plastic or foil. Additionally, the compactness of the pouch also reduces space during transportation, which is offering a favorable instant coffee market outlook. Producing and transporting a pouch is affordable than utilizing jars or cans packaging. The coffee's freshness and aroma are guaranteed by the resealable feature in pouches. Furthermore, improvements in packaging technology are leading to the creation of sustainable and long-lasting pouch materials.

Breakup by Product Type:

• Spray Dried
• Freeze Dried
   

Spray dried holds the largest share of the industry

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product type have also been provided in the report. This includes spray dried and freeze dried. According to the report, spray dried accounts for the largest instant coffee market share.

There is an increase in the demand for spray dried instant coffee among health-conscious consumers due to its natural processing. Spray drying is a physical process that avoids the use of any chemicals, making it a clean method. This aligns with the demand for natural and minimally processed food items. Furthermore, companies are investing in advanced spray-drying technologies that enable them to control the size and shape of coffee particles more accurately, which is leading to a positive instant coffee market forecast.

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Business-To-Business
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others
   

Supermarkets and hypermarkets represent the leading market segment 

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel. This includes business-to-business, supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online, and others. According to the report, supermarkets and hypermarkets represent the largest segment.

A wide variety of instant coffee brands and flavors are readily accessible at supermarkets and hypermarkets. Before making a purchase, these stores provide consumers the chance to physically view and feel products. They also provide eye-catching discounts and bargains, which draw in a larger consumer base.

Breakup by Region:

• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• North America
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa
   

Europe leads the market, accounting for the largest instant coffee market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive instant coffee market analysis of all the major regions, which include Europe, Asia Pacific, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Europe represents the largest regional market for instant coffee.

The fast-paced lifestyle of Europeans is one of the key factors catalyzing the demand for instant coffee. Consumers are constantly seeking time-saving and convenient solutions, and instant coffee offers a quick and hassle-free option. Additionally, the leading instant coffee manufacturers are continually introducing new flavors, blends, and varieties to cater to the diverse taste preferences of European consumers. Apart from this, Europe has a significant number of eco-conscious consumers who prefer sustainable and ethically sourced products. Several instant coffee brands are responding to this demand by ensuring sustainable farming practices, fair trade, and using eco-friendly packaging. These factors are providing instant coffee market recent opportunities in the region. Besides this, companies in the region are engaging in partnerships and collaborations with other players to increase their production. For instance, on 29 September 2023, Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC), located in Rotterdam, Netherlands and Instanta Sp. z o.o. (Instanta) inaugurated ILD Coffee Vietnam, a joint venture freeze-dried instant coffee facility located in Binh Duong province, Vietnam, with an annual production capacity of 5,600 metric tons of freeze-dried instant coffee. 

Key Regional Takeaways:

Europe Market Analysis

Europe is a mature but resilient market for instant coffee, fueled by convenience, premiumization, and sustainability attitudes. The UK, Germany, and Russia have high per capita consumption, with growing demand for freeze-dried and premium blends. Health-led consumers are inspiring brands to low-sugar or additive-free formulations, while eco-conscious consumers prefer recyclable and biodegradable packaging. The emerging café culture has not cooled instant coffee consumption, since convenience of brewing at home remains a draw, particularly in colder climates. Growth in e-commerce and private label offerings are also driving purchasing behavior. Flavor infusion and functional coffee innovations—such as added vitamins or adaptogens—are picking up steam. Europe's strong brand loyalty and advanced palate open up opportunities for sustainably sourced and artisanal instant coffee products to succeed in mainstream and niche markets alike.

Asia Pacific Market Analysis

Asia Pacific is the most rapidly expanding region in the instant coffee industry, spearheaded by huge demand from China, India, Japan, and South Korea. Urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and shifting consumer lifestyles are driving the higher demand for instant coffee, in particular among young professionals and adults. In Southeast Asia, 3-in-1 and flavor instant coffee types have a strong following because they are cost-effective and convenient to prepare. South Korea and Japan show a tendency for high-end and specialty instant coffee, tending to mix traditional flavors with innovation. As café penetration grows, consumers increasingly expect similar taste in at-home options, which is leading brands to provide richer flavor and aroma. Regional competitors are also looking into sustainability and traceability to attract environmentally friendly shoppers. Increased health awareness is boosting sales of lower-sugar and plant-based instant coffee blends.

North America Market Analysis

North American instant coffee is experiencing a consistent comeback underpinned by convenience, innovation, and health trend-driven growth. Though once dominated by single-serve and ground coffee pods, the U.S. and Canadian markets are witnessing a resurgence of interest in quality instant coffee, particularly from Gen Z and millennials demanding portability and ease of preparation. Premiumization is instrumental, with freeze-dried, organic, and microground options gaining traction. Functional beverages' popularity is also impacting product innovation, with instant coffees now being infused with nootropics, collagen, or probiotics. Direct-to-consumer models and subscription online are increasing accessibility and customer loyalty. Instant cold brew variations are becoming increasingly popular in warmer climates. Overall, the North American market is influenced by a combination of convenience-led consumption and demand for premium, health-focused, ethically produced coffee.

Latin America Market Analysis

Latin America, a primary source of coffee, is witnessing increased domestic consumption of instant coffee because of urbanization, affordability, and convenience. Countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia exhibit increasing demand for instant formats, especially among lower- to middle-income consumers and younger people entering the workforce. Though historically preferring brewed coffee, many households are turning to soluble ones as daily lives become increasingly busy. Brands are reacting with an increasing array of offerings, including single-serve sachets and flavored mixes. Local brands lead the market, although international players are making inroads via price sensitivity and marketing. Strong regional affinity towards the coffee culture fuels brand innovation and product innovation in formats. Also, rising digital retail penetration is assisting in growing access for premium and specialty instant coffee, further broadening choice for consumers in urban and semi-urban regions.

Middle East and Africa Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa region has a dynamic and changing instant coffee market, driven by urbanization, growing middle-class populations, and changing consumption patterns. In the likes of Saudi Arabia, South Africa, the UAE, and Nigeria, instant coffee provides an easy substitute for traditional drinking methods. Highly diverse in nature—the market ranges from premium freeze-dried products in the Gulf countries to low-cost sachets in African countries. Young consumers' demand and Westernization lifestyle pressures are increasing consumption, with instant coffee becoming a convenient option for on-the-go and work settings. Foreign players are increasing their footprint, while domestic players build momentum through regionally specific flavor offerings. Online channels and new retail formats are boosting availability. Halal certification, sugar-free, and fortified blends also are growing in demand, which mirrors changing health and cultural trends.

Competitive Landscape:

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the major market players in the instant coffee industry include:

• Nestle
• Starbucks Corporation
• Matthew Algie & Company Ltd.
• Kraft Foods Inc.
• Tata Consumer Products Limited
• Strauss Group Ltd.
• Jacobs Douwe Egberts
• Tchibo Coffee International Ltd.
   

(Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)

Instant coffee companies are diversifying their product offerings by introducing new flavors and functional benefits in their portfolios. They are incorporating popular ingredients such as matcha, turmeric, and different kinds of adaptogens, with a focus on catering to the health-conscious segment of consumers. Additionally, key players are consistently innovating in packaging designs and formats to enhance convenience and consumer appeal while reducing environmental footprint. Furthermore, they are continuously improving their supply chains, ensuring fair trade, and adopting carbon-neutral production processes. Apart from this, many manufacturers are engaging in partnerships to widen their market reach. For instance, on 27 March 2024, Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) signed a binding agreement to fully acquire Brazilian instant coffee exporter Cacique for an undisclosed sum. Cacique operates two production facilities in Brazil and has a portfolio of 65 instant coffee products, which it exports to more than 70 markets across the globe.

Instant Coffee Market Recent Developments:

• 8 January 2023: Tata Consumer Products announced the launch of its premium instant coffee ‘Tata Coffee Grand Premium’, a 100% coffee blend with flavor-locked decoction crystals. The product was launched keeping in mind the taste preference of consumers in non-South markets who tend to prefer a 100% coffee blend over a coffee ‘chicory blend’.
• 7 May 2024: Nescafé launched its new ‘Nescafé Espresso Concentrate’. The product is designed to capture the out of home cold coffee experience. This premium liquid coffee concentrate brings barista-style personalized iced coffees to consumers’ homes. Consumers can simply add a small shot of Espresso Concentrate to milk to have a creamy iced Latte or in water for a robust Americano, or even mix it in a refreshing twist with lemonade or juice.
• 24 July 2023: illycaffè signed a new partnership with Hangzhou Onechance Tech to its increase e-commerce sales in China.

Instant Coffee Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the instant coffee market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global instant coffee market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the instant coffee industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.