It seems that the UK’s love affair with coffee isn’t finished yet. In fact, it’s still yet to peak. In 2017, the coffee shop market grew in turnover by 7.3 per cent to £9.6bn, according to a new report from Allegra World Coffee Portal.
Not only did the market grow in terms of turnover, the number of coffee outlets in the UK also grew. It may feel like there are plenty already, with a coffee shop near enough on every corner, but over 1,200 new ones came to market last year. The growth has been substantial and it is predicted to only improve further with 7,000 more outlets and a turnover of £13bn expected by 2022.
Why are coffee shops booming?
We may be associated with our love of tea but coffee is fast becoming the drink of choice for many. Thankfully, cafés have a range of drink options, tea included, so no one goes without. But why and how have cafés taken over the high street and become part of our culture in the blink of an eye?
Through the 90s, drinking coffee was seen as a way to imitate the lifestyles shown in American sitcoms such as Seinfeld and Friends. Coffee shops began to take note and soon emulated the coffee shops on TV by adding wooden tables, bistro chairs and comfy sofas as well as better coffee, a far cry from the in-and-out greasy cafés from before.
As technology improved and the digital age introduces laptops, mobile phones and tablets, cafés embraced the change by offering workers who were no longer confined to their desk a place to relax and have free WiFi. As the recession hit and retailers and pubs closed down, cafés and bistros filled in the gaps. They are now a place for workers, friends and families to retreat to to both socialise and work.
As the coffee-shop market has grown, shops have adapted to trends bringing in healthy options and diversifying into new areas.
Getting café environment right
Great coffee is, of course, vital. But if you want loyal customers that stay in your café for long periods, owners must create a homely environment. Fast and stable Wi-Fi, access to plug sockets, books and the right furniture all help to getting the right balance.
For all areas of your café’s furniture: bistro tables and chairs, stools and sofas, Trent Furniture can help. Explore our café furniture range to find the right fit for your café. Call us on 0116 2989 335 for more information.