Introduction – United Kingdom’s Coffee Market by the Numbers
Coffee has become more than just a morning ritual in the United Kingdom—it’s a thriving industry. The UK coffee market is projected to grow from USD 11.85 billion in 2024 to USD 25.13 billion by 2035, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.07%, according to Spherical Insights. Even Grand View Research, using different segmentation, projects a healthy CAGR of 6.5% through 2030.
Although the UK only accounts for 1.8% of the global coffee market, it plays a strategic role as a major importer, processor, and re-exporter, especially of roasted and specialty coffee. With rising consumer demand for artisan blends, sustainable sourcing, and cold brews, the coffee scene here is as dynamic as it’s ever been.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into production and export statistics, analyze recent trends, and—most importantly—reveal the Top 6 Coffee Suppliers in the United Kingdom in 2025, based on performance metrics and export data. If you’re a buyer, distributor, or café owner, this article will help you make data-backed sourcing decisions.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Market Signals
The UK doesn’t grow coffee beans domestically on a large scale due to its climate, but it excels in importing, processing, and exporting premium coffee products. According to ReportLinker, the UK exported 92,050 metric tons of coffee in 2023, a steady growth trajectory that’s expected to continue.
What’s interesting is that demand signals from platforms like Freshdi—a B2B marketplace for verified suppliers—mirror these trends. RFQs (Requests for Quotation) for green coffee beans, instant coffee, and private-label roasted blends have surged since 2024, pointing to a shift towards ethical, traceable, and high-margin coffee products.
Top 6 Verified Coffee Suppliers in United Kingdom – Top Tier Based on Export Data
These suppliers have been vetted based on export volumes, trade presence, certifications, and reviews from Freshdi users. Here’s the crème de la crème:
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Flexi Trade Ltd.
Specializing in premium-grade green coffee beans, Flexi Trade is a trusted supplier for roasters across the UK and Europe. -
Coffeelink LTD.
Known for importing rare Arabica beans from Malawi, Coffeelink is a favorite among specialty coffee shops and artisan roasters. -
Buk Trading Ltd
While also dealing in coffee machines, Buk Trading’s coffee division has seen strong export growth, particularly in private-label roasted coffee. -
Tropicollo Ltd.
This supplier focuses on sustainable green coffee beans with Rainforest Alliance and UTZ certifications, gaining traction among eco-conscious brands. -
BOOST DRINKS LIMITED
A rising star in the ready-to-drink (RTD) segment, Boost has capitalized on the cold brew and iced coffee trend across Europe. -
IGC
Specializing in freeze-dried instant coffee, IGC caters to both retail and foodservice sectors with consistent quality and strong export performance.
Dynamic Ranking Note: Platforms like Freshdi update supplier rankings regularly based on RFQs, responsiveness, and fulfillment rates. Check out their “Suppliers of the Month” feature to discover emerging players.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Pricing Analysis & Export Dynamics
Export Trends
The UK’s roasted coffee exports have declined steadily from 29,000 tonnes in 2020 to 12,000 tonnes in 2024—a 6% year-over-year drop. The total export value also fell from $345 million in 2014 to $156 million in 2024. But don’t be fooled—this isn’t a market in decline. Instead, it’s one in transformation.
Buyers are becoming more selective, focusing on quality over quantity. Specialty coffee blends, single-origin beans, and ethical sourcing are taking center stage.
Top Export Destinations
- Ireland: 2,100 tonnes
- Netherlands: 1,600 tonnes
- France: 814 tonnes
Together, these countries account for nearly 40% of the UK’s roasted coffee exports.
Seasonal Pricing Dynamics
In 2024, the average export price of Vietnamese coffee to the UK jumped by a staggering 68.4%, reaching $3,941 per tonne. This price surge is driven by:
- Climate disruptions in Brazil and Vietnam
- Container shortages
- Increased demand for Robusta beans (used in instant coffee)
Lavazza has warned that UK supermarket prices could rise another 10% by 2025, on top of the 15% hike already seen in 2024.
Market Forecasts
Despite export declines in volume, the UK’s roasted coffee market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 1.7%, reaching $1.3 billion by 2035. This growth will likely come from:
- Premiumization of offerings
- Expansion of café culture
- Health-conscious consumers shifting to low-acid and organic coffee
Latest Developments in the UK Coffee Landscape
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Expocacer Opens London Hub
In February 2025, Brazilian coffee cooperative Expocacer launched a logistics hub in London. This move aims to bring farm-to-cup traceability and reduce supply chain delays. Their goal? A 15% YoY sales increase in the UK. -
Sustainability Takes Lead
Rainforest Alliance and Fairtrade certifications are no longer optional—they’re expected. Costa Coffee, for example, sources 100% Rainforest-certified beans. -
Lavazza Price Hike Warning
Lavazza warned that climate change and EU regulations could drive prices up again in 2025. Expect to pay more for your daily espresso. -
Rise of Plant-Based Options
Oat milk lattes, almond macchiatos, and soy cappuccinos are becoming mainstream, especially among Gen Z consumers.
Key Takeaways – The UK Coffee Market at a Glance
- Market Size (2024): USD 11.85 billion
- Global Share: 1.8%
- Top Export Destinations: Ireland, Netherlands, France
- Major Suppliers: Flexi Trade, Coffeelink, Tropicollo, BOOST DRINKS
- Trending Products: RTD cold brew, green beans, specialty Arabica
- Growth Forecast (Roasted Coffee): CAGR 1.7% to 2035
Buyer Checklist – How to Choose a Coffee Supplier in 2025
✔️ Check supplier certifications (Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance)
✔️ Review Freshdi RFQs and buyer reviews
✔️ Consider origin and bean type (Arabica vs Robusta)
✔️ Analyze historical pricing trends
✔️ Evaluate fulfillment rates and responsiveness
✔️ Prioritize companies with transparency and traceability
Future Outlook – What’s Brewing Next?
The next decade will see the UK cement its role as a specialty coffee processing and distribution hub. Demand for ethical, traceable, and premium-quality beans will only grow stronger. Platforms like Freshdi are set to play a pivotal role by providing real-time RFQ data, market analytics, and access to verified suppliers worldwide.
Whether you’re a small café in Manchester or a food distributor in London, sourcing smart means sourcing with data. And in 2025, the data points to a future that’s flavorful, ethical, and globally connected.
How Freshdi Empowers Coffee Buyers
- 🔍 Verified supplier profiles with certifications
- 📊 RFQ analytics to track real-time demand
- 🧾 Trade statistics and export history
- 💬 Direct messaging with exporters
- 🌍 Dynamic supplier rankings to spot rising stars
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
The UK coffee industry is evolving rapidly, driven by premiumization, sustainability, and shifting consumer preferences. Although export volumes have declined, value-added products are on the rise. Smart buyers are turning to platforms like Freshdi to make data-backed decisions, verify suppliers, and stay ahead of pricing trends.
Choosing the right supplier isn’t just about price—it’s about performance, traceability, and transparency. In a market as competitive and volatile as coffee, that’s what gives you the edge.
FAQs
1. Why is the UK considered a key player in the global coffee market if it doesn’t grow coffee?
The UK excels in importing, processing, and exporting value-added coffee products. Its central location, advanced logistics, and consumer demand make it a re-export hub.
2. What kind of coffee is trending in the UK in 2025?
Cold brew, nitro coffee, and plant-based milk coffees are trending, along with high-quality single-origin Arabica beans.
3. How can I verify a UK coffee supplier’s credentials?
Use platforms like Freshdi, which provide verified profiles, certifications, and trade history.
4. Why are coffee prices rising in the UK?
Climate change, shipping issues, and increased demand are driving prices up. Lavazza expects another 10% hike in 2025.
5. What certifications should I look for when sourcing coffee from the UK?
Look for Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade, Organic, and UTZ certifications to ensure ethical and sustainable sourcing.
References
- Spherical Insights – UK Coffee Market Report
- USDA Coffee Circular
- Grand View Research – UK Coffee Outlook
- ReportLinker – UK Coffee Export Volume
- Renub Research – UK Coffee Trends
- IBISWorld – UK Coffee Processing Industry
- International Coffee Organization
- ONS UK Trade Data, May 2025
- Vietnamese Coffee Prices in UK
- IndexBox – UK Roasted Coffee Market
- World Coffee Portal – Expocacer UK Hub
- FT – Lavazza Coffee Price Warning
