Coffee Market Surges Amid High Prices; FreshBrew Expands Production
Coffee Market and Production Trends
Coffee futures continue to surge, with the benchmark price rising to 385.20 US cents per pound on October 13, 2025, reflecting a 3.26% increase from the previous day despite a recent monthly decline. The rally is linked to favorable rainfall forecasts in Brazil and optimism about possible reductions in US tariffs on Brazilian coffee. However, ongoing concerns about heat and drought in Brazil’s flowering period pose risks to the 2026 harvest. Colombia reports its best coffee production in over 30 years, contributing to supply optimism. The US market faces persistent volatility, with 19 historic highs recorded in 2025 and large daily price swings, driven by weather risks, tariffs, and declining certified stocks (Trading Economics, 14 October 2025; Royal New York, October 2025).
Coffee Brands and Corporate Moves
FreshBrew announces a major expansion after acquiring the licensing division of White Coffee Corp, a key supplier to discount and big box retailers. This acquisition enables FreshBrew to produce and market an expanded portfolio of licensed bagged coffee and K-Cup products, increasing production capacity to approximately 150,000 pounds daily. White Coffee Corp executives will join FreshBrew’s leadership to support retail growth, ensuring continuity of the family company’s legacy (GCR Mag, 16 October 2025).
Blue Bottle Coffee achieves carbon neutrality for 2024 and commits to advancing regenerative agriculture. The company collaborates with suppliers to develop region-specific plans supporting climate-adaptive coffee varieties and expanding specialty coffee species beyond Arabica. This move reflects growing industry focus on sustainability and carbon offset transparency (Daily Coffee News, 16 October 2025).
Coffee Machines and Equipment
Ceado prepares to unveil new innovations and international collaborations at Host Milano 2025. The company plans to present a range of product launches focused on flavor design and coffee experiences, underscoring ongoing equipment innovation in the sector (GCR Mag, 16 October 2025).
Industry-Wide Market and Regulatory News
US branded coffee shop market growth slows to 4.2% amid record green coffee costs, 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, and inflationary pressures. Operators have largely passed increased costs to consumers, with coffee prices rising 3-5% depending on product type. Industry optimism has dropped significantly, with only 30% of leaders reporting positive trading conditions and just 20% expecting improvements. Notably, most major US chains have eliminated surcharges for dairy alternatives, reflecting consumer demand and sustainability trends (World Coffee Portal, 16 October 2025).
Vietnamese coffee prices see slight decline, trading at 113,000 – 113,800 VND/kg, down by 700 to 800 VND/kg, narrowing the gap with global prices amid ongoing market fluctuations (Bao Nghe An, 16 October 2025).
Upcoming Industry Events
The 2025 World Barista Championship is set to begin in Milan this week, featuring 50 top baristas competing. The event, integrated with Host Milano, will showcase new coffee trends and innovations, reinforcing Milan’s status as a global coffee hub (BeanScene, 16 October 2025).