Consumers cannot easily duplicate espresso-based beverages at home. Existing food service locations will be slow to upgrade their product to the quality level of specialty coffee establishments. This will be due to the opportunities that exist resulting from strong consumer demands, and the modest costs associated with entering the business. Specialty coffees will solidify their niches in all product categories. Consumers will continue a two-tiered philosophy when shopping.
Most chains possess the capital and key personnel resources necessary for continued expansion.
Specialty Coffee Product Trends Specialty coffee will be in competition for consumer dollars with all other segments of the beverage industry. The advantages of specialty coffee are the variety of variables and combinations within the category. These variables make this product category unique. Dark roast coffees will remain popular for espresso-based beverages. Local roasters will blend coffees to suit the flavor preferences of their market.