New analysis from Circana has revealed increased consumer desire for specialty coffee, teas and donuts as many employees return to the office. 

The company’s data shows a 4 percent rise in traffic for gourmet coffee and tea quick-service restaurants, and a 3 percent rise for donut quick-service restaurants in September 2023, compared to the same month in 2022. Additionally, case sales by leading broadline distributors for quick-service gourmet coffee and tea operators rose by 15 percent in September compared to the year prior.

Gourmet coffee and tea shops also experienced a surge of 3,500 new locations in March 2023 compared to March 2022 as retailers catered to growing consumer demand.

“We’re seeing a notable increase in interest in these specialty items as consumers opt for on-the-go beverages and snacks while rediscovering their morning routines,” says David Portalatin, senior vice president and industry advisor, Food and Foodservice, Circana. “With a rising number of employees returning to the office post-pandemic and the transition to the fall season, gourmet coffee, tea, and donuts offer a small sense of indulgence and convenience for busy consumers.”

Nearly half of all gourmet coffee, tea and donut consumers (47 percnet) purchased a pumpkin-flavored coffee in September, highlighting the power of seasonal, limited-time offers in capturing consumer attention and loyalty.