Coffee shops first appeared in the UK in the 1650s.
As new, transient and welcoming spaces, they quickly fostered their own culture and following. People from all social classes met to exchange stories, and intellectual thoughts at coffee shops.
Today, they’re exponentially widespread – but their intrinsic function remains impressively similar. With the addition of drive-throughs, takeaway coffees and dine-in options, coffee shops are for comfort, convenience and conversations.
We’ve explored just how these familiar establishments have evolved and adapted to current preferences, trends and tastes.
Why are coffee shops so important in society?
Coffee shops are an integral part of daily life. In the UK alone, there are more than 11,000 branded coffee shops worth at least £6 billion combined.
The powerful and addictive taste of coffee is just part of the picture. Coffee shops are still an important space for people to socialise, work, study, and pass the time in a new place. Big brands like Costa and Caffe Nero dominate high streets, providing an easy reference point for meeting up with friends.
They’re cosy and atmospheric, giving them a homely feel, but they’re detached enough from home comforts. They’re not as formal as an office, but they provide a sense of structure and formality that perhaps can’t be found at home.
Coffee shops cater to diverse customer needs and keep people fuelled. Many serve sandwiches, cakes and hot food options alongside an extensive offering of caffeinated beverages.
Speciality coffee and other UK trends
Because the market is now so large and widespread, brands must cater to different types of coffee drinkers.
The demand for speciality coffee remains high in trendy towns and big cities, attracting a younger and more alternative crowd. These cafés typically feature artisan drinks, handcrafted by professional baristas and brewed using freshly ground beans. In 2024, the biggest trend was matcha.
Coffee’s carbon footprint is a pressing issue amongst speciality coffee shops. The growing emphasis on sustainability within the industry now sees more coffee roasters using single-origin beans. Many cafés now work in close partnership with independent coffee brands, either on a local or national scale.
The rise of the internet café
Remote working has influenced coffee shop culture, with many workers choosing these venues as an alternative to their home office. This shift has prompted creative changes in coffee shop layouts and services.
As with many other types of workspaces, getting online in cafés requires internet connection – which comes with inherent risk.
Here are just a few of our top tips for keeping yourself and your personal data secure if you’re using a computer in coffee shops:
- Use private connection: Wherever you’re working, try to avoid using public networks. You can carry your own Wi-Fi connection via USB stick or get online with your mobile network and personal hotspot.
- Add extra security: If you’re connected to a public network, use an online VPN to protect your identity and keep your connection secure.
- Keep your belongings with you: Never leave your desk unattended, especially if you’re using a laptop. This prevents attempted theft and unauthorised access to your accounts.
Ready for your next sip? Whether you’re doing some work or meeting up with friends, take a trip to town and support your local independent coffee shop.