How do Poles drink coffee? New research shows that coffee is no longer just a morning ritual

    Coffee has long been one of the most popular beverages in the world. It accompanies us during our morning routine, business meetings, chats with friends and moments of relaxation. However, the way we drink it is constantly changing. The latest research shows that Poles are becoming increasingly cautious in their choice of coffee, paying attention not only to taste but also to quality, origin and health benefits.

    A survey conducted on a representative group of over one thousand adult Poles confirms that coffee has become an integral part of our daily lives for good. More than half of the respondents say they drink it two or three times a day. For many people a cup of coffee is no longer just a way to wake up, but also part of a daily ritual that helps organise the day and find a moment for themselves.

    Interestingly, despite the dynamic growth of the coffee market and the growing popularity of alternative brewing methods, ground and instant coffees still reign supreme in the Polish homes. This suggests that the consumers value tradition and convenience equally. At the same time, however, there is a growing interest in high-quality coffee and new ways of preparing it.

    Research also points to interesting generational differences. Younger consumers are more likely to experiment with coffee additives. They are more inclined to choose plant-based beverages, lactose-free milk or more sophisticated flavour variants. Older generations tend to favour classic options, such as traditional black coffee or coffee with milk.

    The way coffee itself is perceived is also changing. Just a dozen or so years ago, many myths had arisen around its impact on health. Today, however, more and more people recognise that moderate coffee consumption can form a part of a healthy lifestyle. The respondents most frequently indicated that coffee helps boost energy levels, improves concentration and supports daily activity. Contemporary scientific research largely confirms that, when consumed in moderation, coffee can bring a range of benefits to the body.

    It is worthwhile to note one more trend. More and more consumers are becoming interested in the history of the product, where it comes from and how it is produced. For the younger generation, taste is not the only important factor. Issues related to sustainability and social responsibility also matter. This is a clear signal to the entire industry that the future of the market will depend not only on product quality, but also on brand transparency and authenticity.

    When looking at the survey results, it is fair to say that coffee is undergoing an interesting transformation in Poland. While it remains an everyday beverage for millions of people, it is also becoming an increasingly conscious choice. Consumers want to know more, try new flavours and discover the abundance of the world of coffee.

    And this means that new growth opportunities are opening up for the coffee industry. While a cup of coffee still symbolises everyday pleasure, it now also represents knowledge, quality and conscious consumer choice.

Source:

Prof. Anna Dąbrowska, “The Habits and Preferences of Poles Regarding Coffee Consumption and Perception,” Coffee & Tea Marketing Journal, Vol. 3, No. 1, 2026, published by the Coffee & Tea Market Research Institute. The survey was conducted on a representative sample of 1,004 adult Polish residents. www.ctmri.eu