New Online Research Reveals Britain’s Coffee Habits
A recent study conducted by Product of the Year surveyed over 2,000 consumers to gain insight into Britain’s coffee habits. The results, released on Wednesday 20 August, 2025, have shed light on the nation’s love affair with coffee.
According to the study, coffee remains the most popular first drink of the day for Britons, with 37% of respondents admitting to needing a cup of coffee before anything else. While tea still holds a loyal following at 34%, a surprising 27% of people opt for pure and simple water.
The study also delved into the amount of coffee Britons consume on a daily basis. The majority of respondents (42%) reported drinking 2-3 cups a day, while a dedicated 15% confessed to consuming four or more cups.
However, the debate between instant and pod coffee remains divided among consumers. The study revealed that users on Instagram heavily favor instant coffee (52%), while those on Facebook are more likely to use pod machines like Nespresso (39%). Only a small percentage of individuals use more traditional methods such as cafetières or pour-over methods.
Interestingly, the study found that most coffee drinkers prefer to brew their own coffee at home (57%), citing cost and convenience as the main reasons. However, a significant portion (37%) still enjoy a takeaway coffee from time to time. When it comes to flavor, the study found that “white” coffee, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites, is the nation’s favorite, with 62% of the vote.
It’s no secret that coffee is known for its caffeine content, and the study confirmed that caffeine cravings are real. While over a third of respondents (37%) claimed they could go without coffee, another third (32%) admitted to feeling sluggish without their morning cup. Additionally, 31% of participants confessed to being grumpy until they’ve had their coffee fix. Most coffee consumption occurs before or just after the workday begins, with only a small percentage indulging in the afternoon or evening.
The study also touched on sustainability and found that it is still a work in progress. While fewer than one in eight respondents (12%) always bring a reusable cup, 40% admitted to sometimes bringing one, and 43% never do.
The study also looked into how much Britons are willing to spend on a single cup of coffee. The majority of respondents (56%) reported spending between £3-£5 for their priciest cup, while a significant portion (29%) admitted to splurging £5-£10 on a single cup. An adventurous 2% revealed that they have spent over £10 on a single cup of coffee. A lucky few reported paying less than £3 (13%).
Helga Slater, Managing Director at Product of the Year, commented on the findings, saying, “Britain’s love affair with coffee is very much hotting up, but our poll shows it’s about more than just getting a caffeine hit – ritual, taste, convenience, and even identity, are all part of the experience that makes it special.” She added, “Over the years, we’ve seen all manner of coffee innovation win awards – we’re looking forward to seeing what turns heads in our next awards for 2026.”
With the rise of coffee culture, it is clear that coffee has become more than just a beverage for many Britons. As the nation’s love for coffee continues to grow, it will be interesting to see what innovations and trends emerge in the coming years.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.