The evolution of out-of-home coffee consumption

The ritual of having coffee at the bar has always been an integral part of the Italian lifestyle. In recent years, however, consumer habits have begun to change, influenced by new needs, digitalization, and a growing focus on quality and sustainability. Today, a simple espresso is no longer enough: customers seek personalized experiences, welcoming spaces, and offerings capable of combining tradition and innovation.
Analysing these changes is essential for anyone working in the sector who wants to keep their establishment competitive and attractive.

New customer behaviours after 2020

The way people experience out-of-home coffee has undergone profound transformations in recent years. The pandemic brought greater attention to hygiene, speed of service, and personalized offerings. While bars once served mainly as social gathering spots, today customers also see them as temporary workspaces, places for a quick break, or moments of everyday well-being.

Technology has helped redefine habits: apps for ordering, contactless payments, and delivery options have made consumption more flexible and immediate. At the same time, demand for quality and transparency is growing. More and more people want to know the origin of the coffee, the processing methods, and the environmental impact of a venue’s choices.

Espresso remains a symbol of Italian tradition, but today it must coexist with new consumption patterns capable of meeting diverse and more conscious needs.

The rise of specialty coffee and hybrid formats

Interest in specialty coffee is steadily growing. Customers appreciate it for its traceability, rich aromas, and the opportunity to discover single-origin varieties from selected plantations. This trend has encouraged cafés to experiment with brewing methods beyond espresso, such as V60, syphon, or cold brew, which highlight different nuances and appeal to a curious audience.

Alongside this evolution, hybrid formats are emerging, combining coffee shop, bakery, bistro, and coworking spaces. It’s no longer just about serving a beverage, but about creating an environment where customers can stay longer, work, socialize, or enjoy a complete experience.

Blending different worlds is the key: high-quality coffee, thoughtful food pairings, and welcoming atmospheres become the defining elements of a successful offer.
 

How to adapt your venue’s offering

Responding to these new behaviours requires strategic attention. A first step is to diversify your menu by offering, alongside the classic espresso, filter coffee, cold beverages, and creative options capable of attracting different customer segments. Introducing alternative milks such as soy, oat, or almond also meets the needs of an increasingly health- and nutrition-conscious audience.

Communication is key. Telling the story behind the coffee, explaining the characteristics of the blends, and offering guided tastings help enhance the experience and build customer loyalty. Staff training plays a crucial role: a skilled barista not only serves an excellent coffee but becomes an ambassador for the venue, able to turn a simple drink into a memorable moment.

Looking ahead, the evolution of out-of-home coffee consumption will continue to reward venues that know how to combine tradition and innovation. Those who manage to maintain consistent quality while introducing new, engaging experiences will stand out in an increasingly competitive market.