As coffee prices hit record highs, many consumers are feeling the pinch of their iced coffee cravings, especially when purchased from cafes and restaurants. A significant trend has emerged with 35% of coffee orders now being cold, a 7% increase since 2017. However, these cold beverages come at a premium, with prices for cold brew and lattes averaging $5.14 and $5.46, respectively. Starbucks, for instance, has managed to offset declining foot traffic with higher-priced cold drinks. In response to these rising costs, consumers are increasingly turning to grocery stores and homebrewing to save money. Instant coffee maker Nescafé has introduced cold-liquid-dissolvable coffee, providing a cost-effective alternative for home consumption. Additionally, Keurig is set to launch a new machine designed to brew and chill coffee in under three minutes. Despite the shift towards home brewing, cafes continue to innovate and promote their cold beverage offerings to retain customers. Smaller operators like Buddy Brew Coffee have also adapted by offering home brewing classes and expanding their retail product lines, ensuring that coffee enthusiasts can still enjoy their favorite cold drinks without breaking the bank.
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