Global Cold-Brew Coffee Market Research 2026

The global cold-brew coffee sector is experiencing a rapid transition from a specialty coffee shop novelty to a dominant force in the Ready-to-Drink (RTD) beverage market. Distinguished from standard iced coffee by its unique long-duration, room-temperature extraction process, cold brew caters to the modern consumer's demand for low acidity, natural sweetness, and high caffeine efficiency.

Global Cold-Brew Coffee Market Overview

Western Market Research predicts that the Global Cold-Brew Coffee Market was valued at approximately USD 2.85 Billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 13.72 Billion by the year 2036, growing at a CAGR of 15.3% globally.

This research study indicates that the market is being driven by the "Premiumization" of coffee consumption and the rising preference for convenient, shelf-stable energy solutions. The report calculates present and historical values to forecast management strategies through 2036, considering technological innovations in nitrogen infusion (Nitro) and flash-chilling techniques that maintain the flavor profile of cold-steeped beans.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Cold-Brew Coffee Market

While the pandemic initially disrupted the "On-the-go" consumption model due to office closures and lockdowns in 2020, it acted as a primary catalyst for the at-home cold brew segment. Consumer behavior shifted toward purchasing multi-serve concentrates and high-end RTD cans via e-commerce. This "stock-up" mentality helped the market maintain a positive growth trajectory, and the established delivery infrastructure continues to support online sales post-pandemic.

Global Cold-Brew Coffee Market Segmentation

By Product Type:

• Ready-to-Drink (RTD): The largest segment, consisting of canned or bottled coffee for immediate consumption.

• Concentrates: Multi-serve liquids designed to be diluted with water or milk; popular for household use.

• Cold Brew Pods/Bags: Ground coffee specifically portioned for DIY cold-steeping.

By Bean Variant:

• Arabica: Dominates the market due to its smoother, sweeter flavor profile favored in cold extraction.

• Robusta: Gaining traction in value-based RTD products for its higher caffeine content and bold bitterness.

By Flavor Profile:

• Original/Black: Catering to purists and health-conscious consumers.

• Flavored/Infused: Includes Vanilla, Caramel, Mocha, and seasonal botanical infusions (Lavender, Mint).

By Distribution Channel:

• Retail/Offline: Hypermarkets, Convenience stores, and Specialty Coffee Boutiques.

• Online Sales: Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) subscriptions and third-party e-commerce platforms.

• Foodservice: Cafes, Restaurants, and Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs).

Top Key Players

The market features a mix of global beverage conglomerates and "Third Wave" coffee pioneers:

• Global Beverage Giants: Nestlé (Blue Bottle, Nescafé), Starbucks Corporation, The Coca-Cola Company (Costa Coffee), JAB Holding Company (Peet's, Stumptown).

• RTD Specialists: La Colombe, High Brew Coffee, Lucky Jack, Wandering Bear Coffee, Califia Farms.

• Innovation Leaders: Rise Brewing Co. (Nitro specialist), Minor Figures, Chameleon Cold-Brew, Bizzy Coffee.

• Regional Players: Sleepy Owl (India), Sandows (UK), Slingshot Coffee Co.

Regional Analysis

• North America: The dominant market. Driven by high consumer spend on functional beverages and the presence of major players like Starbucks and La Colombe.

• Europe: Rapidly growing interest in "Clean Label" beverages. The UK and Germany are seeing a surge in vegan-friendly cold brew lattes using oat and almond milk.

• Asia-Pacific: The fastest-growing region. Urbanization in China, India, and South Korea, combined with a young demographic switching from tea to chilled coffee, is fueling demand.

• South America: While traditionally a hot coffee market, Brazil is seeing growth in premium RTD cold brew as a refreshing alternative in tropical climates.

Porter’s Five Forces Analysis

1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers (Moderate): Specialty Arabica beans are in high demand, giving estate farmers some leverage, though large corporations maintain bulk-buying power.

2. Bargaining Power of Buyers (High): Low switching costs for consumers and a massive variety of brands in retail aisles keep competition fierce.

3. Threat of New Entrants (High): Low barriers to entry for local craft breweries to pivot into cold-brew coffee production.

4. Threat of Substitutes (Moderate): Competition from energy drinks, traditional iced coffee, and functional teas.

5. Competitive Rivalry (Very High): Intense focus on branding, shelf-space, and "Nitro" technology innovation.

SWOT Analysis

• Strengths: Lower acidity (digestive-friendly); high caffeine content; premium brand image.

• Weaknesses: Higher price point than standard coffee; long production cycle (12–24 hours).

• Opportunities: Integration of functional additives (Collagen, Protein, L-Theanine); expanding "Nitro-on-tap" in office spaces.

• Threats: Climate change impact on coffee bean supply; volatility in aluminum (can) and glass (bottle) prices.

Trend Analysis

• Nitro Infusion: Using nitrogen gas to create a creamy, stout-like texture without adding dairy or sugar.

• Plant-Based Partnerships: RTD cold brews pre-mixed with oat, soy, or pea milk are becoming the industry standard for new launches.

• Sustainable Packaging: A shift toward "Endlessly Recyclable" aluminum cans and glass over plastic.

Drivers & Challenges

• Drivers: Rising demand for "Clean Energy" (natural caffeine); convenience-seeking millennials/Gen Z; the health trend of reducing sugar in beverages.

• Challenges: Strict cold-chain logistics required for non-shelf-stable varieties; the need for expensive high-pressure processing (HPP) to ensure safety.

Value Chain Analysis

1. Sourcing: Procurement of high-quality green beans (mostly Arabica).

2. Roasting: Specific light-to-medium roast profiles optimized for cold extraction.

3. Brewing: Industrial-scale cold steeping at controlled temperatures.

4. Packaging: Flash-chilling, nitrogen dosing, and canning/bottling.

5. Distribution: Leveraging refrigerated or ambient logistics to reach global retail hubs.

Quick Recommendations for Stakeholders

• For Manufacturers: Focus on Shelf-Stable RTD formulations to reduce the cost and complexity of cold-chain distribution.

• For Investors: Prioritize brands with Functional Add-ons (e.g., vitamins or adaptogens), as the "Coffee-plus" segment is seeing higher margins.

• For Retailers: Create dedicated "Grab-and-Go" chilled sections for cold brew to differentiate it from traditional soda or flavored milks.