Matcha Madness : What a Green Latte Craze Means for UK Coffee Trends.

Yesterday’s national press spotlighted an unexpected consequence of the UK’s coffee obsession: demand for matcha lattes is now so high it’s overwhelming tea farmers in Japan.

Once a niche drink, matcha has exploded in popularity across the UK — not just in artisan cafés, but now in chains, supermarkets, and even home kitchens. But as British drinkers cool down with iced matcha lattes in the summer sun, Japanese suppliers are struggling to keep up with the surge in global demand.

So… What Actually Is Matcha?

Matcha comes from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, ground into a fine powder. It delivers an earthy, slightly sweet flavour and a vibrant green colour. While Japanese tea ceremonies traditionally involve whisking it into hot water, cafés across the UK now shake, blend, and pour it over ice.

Thanks to its high antioxidant content and smooth, sustained energy boost, matcha has become the go-to summer choice for caffeine lovers.

What Does That Mean for You?

If you’re in the café game, this is a signal — demand is shifting. Customers still want caffeine, but they’re also looking for variety, wellness-led choices, and Instagrammable drinks.

That doesn’t mean ditching your espresso machine — quite the opposite. With the right kit, you can stay ahead of the curve, offer matcha and macchiatos, and upsell with seasonal drinks from the same setup.

Looking to Diversify Your Coffee Offering?

From barista-grade espresso machines to precision milk frothers and professional blenders (yes, perfect for iced matcha), we stock what you need to keep pace with the changing drink scene.