Takeaway coffee - trends, statistics and sustainability

In Latvia and around the world, more and more coffee lovers are choosing to enjoy their favourite beverage on the go - whether on their way to work, on a walk or while going about their daily chores. In this article we take a look at take-away coffee cups from different angles - statistics, usage patterns and their environmental impact.

How popular is takeaway coffee?

Research shows that around the world, around 65% of people choose to drink their coffee with a drink at least once a week, and 30% do so every day. In Latvia, this trend is no exception - according to local surveys, around half of the Latvian population regularly buys takeaway coffee.

Coffee consumption in Latvia has been increasing in recent years, with the average person drinking around 3.5 kg per year. With the growth of dynamic lifestyles, the popularity of takeaway coffee continues to rise.

Where and why do people choose takeaway coffee?

Takeaway coffee is most commonly purchased:

At petrol stations - motorists regularly buy coffee on the way.
Coffee shops and cafés - many coffee lovers prefer specialised coffee shops.
Fast food outlets - grab a coffee to go.
Coffee from home - more and more people are choosing to take their coffee from home to save time and money.

The main reasons why people prefer to drink their coffee with a drink:
Convenience and time-saving - in the morning rush, people want to enjoy their coffee on the move.

Sustainability and the environment: how to reduce waste?

Take-away coffee cups have a significant environmental impact. According to various studies, more than 16 billion disposable coffee cups are thrown away worldwide every year, and most of them are not recycled.

More and more cafés and coffee lovers are choosing:

Reusable thermal cups - many coffee shops offer discounts if you bring your own cup.
Compostable or recyclable cups - a greener alternative to traditional plastic or paper cups.
Fewer lids and bagged sticks - a simple way to reduce excess plastic consumption.

The future of takeaway coffee

Trends show that the consumption of take-home coffee will continue to grow, while people are becoming more conscious about sustainability. Eco-friendly coffee options are becoming increasingly popular in Latvia, with major coffee brands offering alternatives to disposable cups.
If you're a coffee lover too, consider using a reusable mug - not only will it help the environment, but it can also give you extra discounts and improve the taste of your coffee!