As the sun rises and the kettle whistles, millions of Australians reach for their beloved morning ritual—a steaming cup of coffee. That familiar aroma fills the kitchen, the warmth in our hands, and that first satisfying sip that seems to clear the fog.
For many of us, the first cup of coffee in the morning is a comforting start to the day that helps us prepare to face what lies ahead. Although it’s a daily tradition that fuels the nation, recent trends showed that this caffeinated comfort could soon become a luxury many might struggle to afford.
A poll has shed light on the brewing issue of coffee prices, which have steadily climbed over the past five years. The poll surveyed 613 respondents and found that 52 per cent are currently content with the cost of their daily cup of coffee.
But the future might hold a bitter taste. Before the pandemic, the average Australian spent about $4 on coffee. Fast-forward to today, and that same cup now costs around $5.50—a steep increase of 37.5 per cent.
Despite this, half of the respondents said they would be willing to spend between $4 and $6 on their caffeine fix.
‘Coffee prices are going up. However, for good coffee, I am prepared to accept $6.00 for a cup,’ one respondent commented.
But the cost of coffee is not just inching up; it’s predicted to leap. By the end of the year, a single cup could cost anywhere from $8 to $12.
Wes Lambert, chief executive of the Australian Restaurant and Café Association, said that up to 30 per cent of businesses could feel the squeeze from these increases, with bean prices reported to have surged by as much as 50 per cent.
Many Australians are opposed to this impending price hike. Only 2 per cent of the poll’s participants would consider paying between $7 and $10 for their coffee.
Meanwhile, 19 per cent would prefer to pay $4 or less—a price that’s becoming a rarity in cafes but can still be found at discount venues like service stations and convenience stores.
‘I love my 7/11 coffee for $2,’ one respondent admitted.
Another shared, ‘I don’t tend to buy coffee when out as I have a coffee machine at home and can make it how I like it.’
Yet, there’s a palpable frustration among coffee drinkers who feel the pinch. ‘Coffee has become a gouge item,’ one person lamented, while another was astonished at the’ price some [people] charge for a regular coffee.’
The sentiment is clear: what was a simple pleasure now becomes an extravagance. Interestingly, 18 per cent of those surveyed don’t drink coffee at all, sidestepping the issue entirely.
But for the majority who indulge in this aromatic beverage, the question remains: how much is too much for coffee? How do you think these price increases will affect your daily routine? Your insights are as valuable as that first sip of the day.
Also read: Flight crew says you should never drink in-flight coffee: Here’s why
