18 May 2017

Summer’s off ice

Politicians on the campaign trail are feeling the burn as we head towards next month’s general election. And they’re not the only ones door stepping. We’ve also hit the streets to bring you this month’s Price Watch.

May sees operators gear up for the warm months ahead. The coffee boards are telling us summer is hot stuff and the menus are chilled, with operators pushing their cold coffee varieties. The drinks might be cool, but the competition is still hot. So who are the movers and shakers?

warm months ahead

Phil Smith, head of category and insight, UCC Coffee UK & Ireland comments: “May sees an across the board price increase of 10p at Caffè Nero, only four months after its last price hike in January. The move brings its flat white in line with Costa’s at £2.70. Over at M&S Café, the majority of its coffee prices are up by 5p, making its medium cappuccino one of the most expensive on the high street at £2.65, though still undercutting Costa’s at £2.75.

“We’re also seeing operators get ready for the warm weather season. Costa is leading the summer stampede with its Coffee Banoffee Frostino and Ice Chai Latte. And Starbucks is hot on its heels with a new cold coffee menu including its Cappuccino Freddo and Cold Brew Vanilla Sweet Cream.”

*All prices are correct as of 9 May 2017. Prices quoted are based on ‘drink in’ prices unless unavailable. All prices are sourced in London and may vary regionally.

Download the complete Price Watch here.