Espresso Under Siege: Italians Brace for Rising Coffee Prices

As coffee bean prices spike due to climate change and trade issues, Italian coffee bar owners face the challenge of maintaining low prices for the nation's cherished espresso, leading to anxiety about the future of this essential cultural staple.

Italy, known for its deep-rooted coffee culture, is facing a brewing crisis. Andrea Consilvio, who recently purchased a traditional coffee bar in Turin, is now contending with rising coffee bean prices that are threatening the affordability of espresso — a daily ritual for nearly 75% of Italians. With global prices on the rise due to trade disruptions and climate change, the expectation for inexpensive coffee at local bars is putting owners like Consilvio in a difficult position.

“It’s a tough time,” he noted, acknowledging the alarming trend in coffee prices that could jeopardize both tradition and livelihoods. The Italian Espresso National Institute, led by Luigi Morello, has also expressed concerns, highlighting that the entire coffee supply chain is facing unprecedented stress. The essence of Italian coffee culture, defined by its rich espresso, is now at stake, as both consumers and bar owners seek to navigate these economic challenges while preserving a vital part of Italy's identity.

As the coffee business grapples with this shift, the future of Italian espresso remains uncertain amidst growing tensions over affordability and quality. The situation serves as a wake-up call for an industry facing transformation, as stakeholders ponder the impact on coffee traditions cherished by millions.