RTD Beverage Popularity Grows Among Millennials and Gen Z Consumers

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The global ready to drink (RTD) tea & coffee market size was valued at USD 119.84 billion in 2024. It is projected to grow from USD 127.13 billion in 2025 to USD 219.95 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.3% during 2025–2034.

The increasing demand for bottled beverages that offer convenience without compromising on taste or functionality is fueling market momentum. RTD tea and coffee offer consumers a ready-made solution for hydration, energy, and even wellness, without the need for preparation. The growing popularity of on-the-go consumption further cements these beverages as a staple among busy professionals, students, and health-conscious consumers.

Another growth catalyst is the surging demand for functional drinks — beverages that go beyond basic refreshment to offer benefits such as immunity support, energy boost, or stress reduction. Innovations in formulation, such as cold brew coffee, green tea infusions, and adaptogenic teas, are broadening the appeal of RTD products across diverse consumer demographics.

Market Segmentation

The RTD Tea & Coffee Market is segmented based on product type, packaging, distribution channel, and region. This segmentation allows for a detailed understanding of consumption patterns, technological innovation, and brand positioning.

1. By Product Type:

  • Ready to Drink Tea
    • Black Tea
    • Green Tea
    • Herbal Tea
    • Oolong Tea
  • Ready to Drink Coffee
    • Cold Brew Coffee
    • Iced Coffee
    • Nitro Coffee

RTD tea continues to dominate the market due to its perceived health benefits, particularly among consumers seeking natural antioxidants. Meanwhile, cold brew coffee has emerged as a high-growth sub-segment, especially in North America and Europe, driven by its smooth flavor profile and premium image.

2. By Packaging:

  • Cans
  • Bottles
  • Cartons
  • PET Bottles
  • Others

Bottled beverages remain the most popular format, with PET and glass bottles favored for their portability and eco-friendly upgrades. However, canned RTD products are gaining traction due to improved shelf stability and cost-effective logistics.

3. By Distribution Channel:

  • Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
  • Convenience Stores
  • Online Retail
  • Specialty Stores
  • Vending Machines

Supermarkets and hypermarkets hold a major share owing to product visibility and brand comparison options. However, online retail is growing rapidly, particularly in urban markets, facilitated by e-commerce giants and direct-to-consumer strategies adopted by brands.

Read More @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/global-ready-to-drink-tea-and-coffee-market

Regional Analysis

The global RTD Tea & Coffee Market shows distinct regional patterns, with each geography presenting unique opportunities and challenges.

1. North America:

North America holds a substantial share of the global market, led by the U.S. where cold brew coffee has become a cultural phenomenon. Rising health consciousness and the availability of premium and organic options are further driving demand. The expansion of convenience stores and a strong café culture are also influencing growth.

2. Europe:

Europe's market is defined by strong demand in countries such as Germany, the UK, and France. Functional drinks are particularly popular, especially among millennials and Gen Z consumers. Increasing sustainability concerns have also pushed manufacturers to adopt recyclable packaging.

3. Asia-Pacific:

Asia-Pacific is expected to experience the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by a large consumer base, rising disposable incomes, and growing urbanization. Countries like Japan, China, and India have seen exponential growth in on-the-go consumption of bottled beverages. Japan, a pioneer in vending machine culture, has an established RTD tea and coffee segment, while China’s demand is surging due to premiumization and western influence.

4. Latin America and Middle East & Africa:

These emerging markets are witnessing increased adoption due to rising young populations, urban migration, and international brand penetration. However, high price sensitivity and limited cold chain infrastructure may pose short-term challenges.

Key Companies

The competitive landscape of the RTD Tea & Coffee Market is both fragmented and dynamic, marked by the presence of multinational corporations, regional players, and boutique beverage startups. Key players are focusing on innovation, sustainability, and premium product offerings to differentiate themselves in an increasingly saturated market.

1. The Coca-Cola Company

Through its brands like Gold Peak and Fuze Tea, Coca-Cola has established a strong foothold in the RTD tea segment. The company continues to invest in low-sugar and organic options to appeal to health-conscious consumers.

2. PepsiCo, Inc.

PepsiCo’s partnership with Starbucks to distribute bottled Frappuccino and cold brew coffee varieties has made it a leading player in the RTD coffee space. Lipton, co-owned with Unilever, remains a dominant RTD tea brand worldwide.

3. Nestlé S.A.

Nestlé leverages its global network and robust R&D to deliver high-quality products under brands like Nescafé and Nestea. Its focus on recyclable packaging and ethical sourcing aligns with modern consumer values.

4. Danone S.A.

Danone’s RTD tea offerings focus on organic and functional benefits, especially in the European and Asia-Pacific markets. The company has also entered the cold brew space with limited-edition variants.

5. Starbucks Corporation

In addition to its partnership with PepsiCo, Starbucks independently markets premium cold brew coffee and nitro-infused beverages in ready-to-drink formats. Brand equity and flavor innovation remain its core strengths.

6. Asahi Group Holdings

Asahi’s RTD tea and coffee brands, particularly in Japan and Southeast Asia, enjoy high brand loyalty. The company invests significantly in regional flavor innovation and vending machine distribution.

7. Suntory Holdings

Suntory has an extensive RTD portfolio, including the highly successful Boss Coffee and Iyemon Tea. The company’s strong presence in Asia and innovation in packaging and flavor profiles are notable.

Other notable players include Arizona Beverages, Monster Beverage Corporation, Ito En Ltd., and emerging brands like High Brew Coffee, RUNA, and Sailor Jack’s — all of which are reshaping consumer expectations with bold flavors and natural ingredients.

Trends Shaping the Future

Several industry trends are expected to shape the future of the RTD Tea & Coffee Market:

  • Health & Wellness Focus: Rising demand for low-sugar, organic, and adaptogen-infused products.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Increased use of recyclable and biodegradable packaging.
  • Premiumization: Consumers are willing to pay more for unique flavors, functional ingredients, and ethical sourcing.
  • Personalization & E-commerce: AI-driven product suggestions and subscription-based delivery models are redefining consumer engagement.

Conclusion

The Ready to Drink Tea & Coffee Market is entering a golden era of innovation and consumer engagement. As lifestyles become increasingly fast-paced and health-focused, these beverages provide a perfect blend of convenience, taste, and functionality. With strong growth projected across all regions and product segments, this market offers substantial opportunities for both legacy brands and new entrants.

Companies that continue to prioritize on-the-go consumption, flavor diversity, and environmental responsibility will be best positioned to lead the RTD beverage revolution.

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