When temperatures rise, consumer beverage habits change quickly. Customers look for drinks that feel refreshing, customizable and convenient – cold brew coffee continues to check all three boxes.
Cold coffee consumption has grown steadily over the last several years, with younger consumers in particular driving demand for cold brew, iced coffee and ready-to-drink beverages. A National Coffee Data Trends Spring 2026 report states to out of 10 customers under 40 have ordered a frozen blended coffee beverage in the last week. Likewise, according to the National Coffee Association, cold coffee beverages now make up a significant share of specialty coffee consumption, especially during warmer months when iced options often become the beverage of choice.
That shift presents major opportunities for foodservice operators.
Cold brew is no longer a niche menu item. It has become an expectation in many restaurants, convenience stores, hospitality settings and workplace cafes. Unlike some seasonal beverage trends, cold brew has proven it can drive traffic throughout the day – from morning commuters to afternoon refreshment seekers.
Why Consumers Continue to Choose Cold Brew
Part of cold brew’s staying power comes from flavor and drinkability. Cold brew is steeped slowly in cold water and tends to produce a smoother, less acidic profile than traditionally brewed coffee. The naturally sweeter taste appeals to a wide range of consumers, including customers who may not normally drink black coffee.
Cold brew also pairs well with the flavor customization customers increasingly expect. Seasonal syrups, creamers, cold foams and alternative milks allow operators to create signature beverages without dramatically increasing menu complexity.
During summer months, cold beverages simply feel more relevant. Customers are looking for drinks that help them cool down while still delivering caffeine, flavor and convenience. Cold brew hits all of those needs while also supporting premium pricing opportunities.
Building a Profitable Summer Beverage Program
Operators don’t need to overly complicate their menu though to capitalize on summer coffee trends. In fact, some of the most successful seasonal programs focus on a small number of versatile offerings that can be easily customized.
A strong summer beverage menu often includes:
- A classic black cold brew
- One or two flavored cold brew options
- A sweet or indulgent signature drink
- Grab-and-go, ready-to-drink options
- Limited-time seasonal flavors
Flavor trends continue to lean toward familiar, comforting profiles with a summer twist. Salted caramel, vanilla and mocha remain consistent performers because they appeal to a broad audience and work across multiple beverage formats.
Operators should also think beyond morning dayparts. Cold brew performs particularly well during afternoon hours when customers may be looking for an energy boost or refreshing treat. Pairing cold beverages with snack items or promoting combo offers can help increase average ticket size.
Presentation matters too though! Clear cups, eye-catching garnishes and seasonal signage can help drive impulse purchases, especially in convenience, travel and quick-service environments.
Simplicity Matters for Operators
Another reason cold brew continues gaining traction is operational flexibility. Today’s foodservice operators need beverage programs that are easy to execute consistently while minimizing labor and waste.
Farmer Brothers offers several cold brew and iced coffee solutions designed to help operators meet growing demand without needing unnecessary complexity. Our cold brew portfolio includes convenient concentrate, bag-in-box and ready-to-drink formats that make it easier to serve high-quality cold coffee beverages across multiple foodservice environments. In addition, our syrups, sauces and creamers provide operators with additional ways to create customizable drinks and seasonal, regional favorites.
Cold Coffee Is More Than a Trend
While summer beverage demand continues to evolve, cold brew has become an established long-term category driver. Consumers increasingly expect premium cold coffee options that are convenient and customizable, especially during the warmer months.
For foodservice operators, the opportunity is about more than simply adding iced beverages to the menu. It is about creating beverage programs that drive repeat visits, increase afternoon traffic and deliver strong margins with operational efficiency. As summer traffic picks up, cold brew can help meet customers exactly where they are – looking for something cold, refreshing and worth coming back for.
Interested in adding cold brew to your summer menu? Speak with a local rep today!