However, that’s not what is happening. Home brewing has changed café culture. In fact, it’s shaping the future of coffee drinking.
According to Modor intelligence, the US household coffee machine market is worth $3.47 billion in 2026, and its set to reach $4.7 billion by 2031.
That growth reflects a broader interest in making coffee at home. De’Longhi, an Italian company with a long history in coffee appliances, is one of the brands serving that interest with options such as a manual espresso makers. It’s more than just a machine. People are taking the role of home barista very seriously.
It’s not uncommon, to find homes with grinders, milk frothers, cold brew systems, and even pour-over equipment. In short, people can create their own personalized coffee in minutes at home.
This is becoming a concern for coffee shops. After all, who is going to pay over $5 for a coffee in the shop when they can create the same at home for $0.50?
The good news is that coffee shops and restaurants aren’t struggling to find customers;
There are plenty of coffee drinkers who continue to pop into their local for a coffee. These are the people that regularly purchase coffee, perhaps on their way to work. It’s become part of their routine and they won’t change this.
Equally, people looking to replace low-quality work coffee will continue to purchase from restaurants and coffee shops. It’s the most effective way to ensure a good cup of coffee.
These types of coffee drinkers may invest in a quality home setup, but it’s an extra option not a replacement habit. They will still use restaurants and coffee shops because they are convenient.
Leisure drinkers, those that are have lots of coffee simply for the taste, are likely to continue to drink coffee at restaurants and coffee shops. The difference is in the quality they will expect to receive.
That’s the real difference home coffee machines are making, customers are now expecting above and beyond when they order in a restaurant.
Part of this is because they know what they can produce at home. They can also appreciate the skill and knowledge that baristas have when creating the perfect coffee. If the restaurant or coffee shop staff are happy to chat, they’ll find customers are happy to respond.
Leisure customers with this level of appreciation are more likely to purchase coffee beans and other ingredients direct from the restaurant. All that’s needed to keep this type of customer is for the restaurant/coffee shop to be invested in this coffee culture, and be prepared to talk about it.
Of course, as with almost any type of retail, the atmosphere makes a big difference. Many coffee drinkers appreciate the quality of a good coffee, but come to the restaurant to meet other coffee drinkers, socialize, and find out the latest news and developments.
The right atmosphere makes any visit a worthwhile ordeal. It’s this that will allow a shop or restaurant to stand out and continue to flourish.
Coffee shops and restaurants can also sell the beans they use. Customers that use home brewing kits are more likely to understand which beans they like and they’ll continue to purchase the beans from the restaurant/coffee shop. Naturally, they’ll also indulge in their favorite coffee while they place their order for beans.
Coffee shops and restaurants simply need to ensure they are selling the highest quality goods. That’s how they’ll remain an attractive option to all customers.
