Drip coffee, Costco and Dunkin’: A look at coffee trends in Canada
Canada remains a nation of coffee drinkers—and many are drinking more of it.
A new Field Agent survey found that 91% of Canadians drink coffee, and 40% of coffee drinkers say they’re consuming it more often than they did a year ago. Only 8% are drinking it less often.
“Coffee is not the cheapest item in the grocery basket, but whether it’s grocery or foodservice, it’s still a staple,” says Jeff Doucette, general manager of Field Agent. “Even if it’s more expensive now, the thinking is, ‘I can still afford a decent cup of coffee.’”
In its report, The Canadian Coffee Cup: How Canadians are Drinking Coffee at Home and Away in 2026, Field Agent notes that coffee remains a major part of the daily routine, with 93% of coffee lovers preparing it at home, averaging two servings a day. Away from home, coffee is just as popular (93%), with an average of 1.3 servings a day. Not surprisingly, coffee consumption peaks in the early morning (74%) and declines throughout the day, although 25% of coffee drinkers say they refuel in the late afternoon.
When it comes to format, drip is the top choice for Canadians preparing their cup of joe at home (66%). That’s followed by instant coffee (48%), iced coffee (40%), espresso-based coffee drinks (39%), cold brew (22%), canned or bottled coffee beverages (19%) and nitro (6%).
Keurig/K-Cup systems are the most popular coffee equipment, with 48% of at-home coffee drinkers using them. That’s followed by drip coffee machines (44%), French presses (31%), Nespresso machines (29%) and espresso machines without pods (26%).
With a growing trend to recreate the premium coffee-shop experience at home, Doucette sees a merchandising opportunity for grocery retailers.
“When you think of the coffee experience, no one is taking a four-foot section of the coffee aisle and dropping in a refrigerated section with coffee creamers or a four-foot section with all the syrups,” he says. “But that’s really talking to the true at-home barista.”
Most popular brands and retailers for at-home coffee
For at-home coffee drinkers, Field Agent asked what brands they’re buying—and where.
Costco is the retailer of choice, with 50% saying they shop there most often for coffee to make at home.
“Costco dedicates a huge amount of space to coffee,” says Doucette, adding that the product is typically displayed in both the grocery and office supply aisles. He also says the retailer stands out in its merchandising of seasonal blends.
“I think coffee is a good basket-builder for Costco,” he says. “It’s a staple that has some excitement. That fits the Costco model really well and they’ve gone all-in on the category from a space perspective.”
Other popular retail destinations for at-home coffee are Walmart (39%), Real Canadian Superstore (28%), Nespresso online and boutiques (16%) and No Frills/Maxi (13%).
What brands are making their way into shopping carts—and cups? Tim Hortons holds the top spot (25%) among the coffee brands Canadians regularly make and drink at home.
That’s followed by McDonald’s McCafé (19%), Nescafé/Nescafé Gold (19%), Nespresso (19%) and Starbucks (18%). Kicking Horse Coffee, local and independent brands and Folgers followed at 16% each.
READ: What shifting coffee habits could mean for grocers
Tim Hortons also leads the way in away-from-home consumption, with 82% of coffee drinkers saying they regularly go there for coffee. That’s followed by Starbucks (62%) McDonald’s McCafé (58%) and local and independent coffee shops (17%).
“Tim Hortons is affordable, accessible option,” says Doucette. “They’ve had their business challenges, but they’re trying to change that.”
With American chain Dunkin’ Donuts set to return to Canada, Field Agent also asked respondents if they would buy the brand’s products if they were sold at grocery stores. The results were mixed: 29% said they were likely to buy, 37% were undecided and 34% were unlikely.
Comments in the survey showed there is curiosity about the brand, but many shoppers want to taste Dunkin’ before committing to repeat purchases, according to the report. Price, promotions and competitiveness with familiar grocery brands are also factors. In addition, habits are ingrained. Many Canadians have a preferred coffee brand or buying routine and see little reason to switch.
The takeaway for the Tim Hortons’ rival? Field Agent says the opportunity for Dunkin’ Donuts is less about pent-up loyalty and more about winning a trial. “To become a regular basket item, Dunkin’ must deliver on taste, price and a compelling reason to switch,” the report states.
