Iced coffee is becoming increasingly popular in Europe, a region traditionally known for its hot coffee culture. Recent data indicates that sales of iced coffee in the food service sector have grown significantly across several European countries, with rising temperatures contributing to this demand.
According to market research firm Fyre, based in Luxembourg, iced coffee sales surged by double digits in the UK, the Netherlands, France, and Germany from February to August of this year compared to the same period last year. The Netherlands experienced the most substantial increase at 44 percent, followed by the UK at 39 percent, France at 20 percent, and Germany at 19 percent.
Major coffee chains in the UK are actively promoting this trend by introducing innovative iced coffee drinks. Caffe Nero launched its Iced Vanilla Protein Latte last month, which contains 25 grams of protein. Additionally, Starbucks UK rolled out a Protein Cold Foam in April, incorporating whey protein into its offerings.
The rise in iced coffee consumption coincides with rising temperatures across Europe. The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service reports that the continent has warmed at about 0.56 degrees Celsius per decade over the last 30 years, nearly twice the global average. The average annual temperature in Europe reached 10.41 degrees in 2025, marking the third-highest on record and 1.17 degrees above the 1991-2020 average.
While iced coffee may be a relatively new trend in Europe, it is a longstanding staple in South Korea, where consumption remains high even during the cold winter months. The term “eoljukah” has emerged in Korea, humorously describing the fervor of iced Americano lovers who endure cold weather to enjoy their favorite drink. Analysis of around 400 million coffee orders from more than 4,000 Mega MGC Coffee locations last year revealed that six in ten coffees sold during winter were iced.
Cho Seung-hyun, an office worker in Seoul, suggests that the fast-paced work culture in Korea contributes to the popularity of iced coffee. “For office workers with short lunch breaks, iced Americanos are a convenient choice when they have to squeeze in both a meal and a coffee,” Cho said.
The growing trend of iced coffee in Europe reflects not only changing preferences among consumers but also the environmental factors influencing food and beverage choices.
