New research reveals tea as a big opportunity to boost profits

According to a new survey by vending operator Selecta, tea represents a growing profit opportunity for operators as students seek to replicate their quality home brewed cuppa.

“Over the last 12 months we conducted a large survey of hot drinks vending which provides useful insight into the habits of consumers. Of the 6850 people surveyed, tea was chosen by 23% of respondents as their preferred drink.” says Sarah Risdon, assistant category manager of Hot Drink, Selecta UK.

“It shows that despite the nation’s coffee culture over the past decade, tea retains its traditional appeal with consumers who value the quality of a freshly brewed cuppa from our vending machines. Coffee is very popular but tea shouldn’t be underestimated in the profitability stakes or be an afterthought for caterers.”  

Indeed nearly twice as many cups of tea are consumed against coffee every year (65:35), and though coffee is a popular choice for consumers out of home, tea continues to lead the way at home and is a growing opportunity for out of home.

“Coffee has had the edge over tea in the workplace but over the last three years this advantage has been eroded and now the split is nearly 50/50,” adds Risdon. “People who drink tea also tend to drink it more frequently compared to coffee drinkers, so if you get your brew right the profit potential of tea is significant, representing an opportunity for caterers and facilities managers.”