Coffee Industry News: Market Trends, Brand Expansions & Equipment Updates – Nov 1, 2025

Brazil and Vietnam Coffee Production Forecasts Show Growth

Brazil’s 2025/26 coffee production is forecasted to increase by 0.5% year-on-year to 65 million bags, while Vietnam’s output is expected to rise by 6.9% to a four-year high of 31 million bags, according to the USDA Foreign Agriculture Service. Despite an overall global coffee production increase of 2.5% to a record 178.68 million bags, arabica production is predicted to decline by 1.7%, while robusta production will rise by 7.9%. Ending stocks for 2025/26 are forecast to climb by 4.9% to 22.819 million bags, supporting coffee price recovery as ICE inventories dwindle (Nasdaq, 1 Nov 2025).

Luckin Coffee Confirms US Market Entry Plans

Chinese coffee giant Luckin has confirmed plans to enter the US market, aiming to compete with established players such as Starbucks by offering low-cost drinks. Following a rapid expansion in China and recovery from an accounting scandal, Luckin has successfully launched outlets in Singapore and Malaysia. The US entry represents a significant milestone for the brand and could intensify competition in the American coffee retail sector (Perfect Daily Grind, 1 Nov 2025).

Starbucks Faces Challenges Amid Market Shifts

Starbucks continues to experience declining customer traffic and financial challenges, with over 400 store closures in one quarter and ongoing labor disputes. The company’s CEO recently announced the removal of the Oleato olive oil beverage range from menus to simplify barista workflows, suggesting that beverage customization may not be driving growth as hoped. Meanwhile, regional and mid-sized chains like 7 Brew and Dutch Bros are gaining market share, focusing on speed and convenience through drive-thru formats (American Recruiters, 1 Nov 2025).

Krowne Expands Foodservice Sales Team

Krowne, a leading manufacturer of commercial kitchen equipment, has appointed Daniel Wiemer as Eastern Strategic Accounts Manager. This role is part of Krowne’s strategy to deepen relationships with chain operators, consultants, and national accounts, supporting its next growth phase in foodservice sales. The company recently strengthened its sales division with additional hires and promotions to maintain alignment with its dealer and rep network (American Recruiters, 1 Nov 2025).

US Coffee Tariffs Under Legislative Review

A bill introduced by US lawmakers proposes to repeal tariffs on coffee imports, responding to concerns that tariffs raise consumer costs without benefiting domestic production, which accounts for only 1% of US consumption. The bill reflects bipartisan support and aims to alleviate the impact of tariffs imposed during the previous administration. The move follows rising coffee prices driven by tariffs, poor weather conditions, and climate-related production risks, especially in Brazil. Researchers are also focusing on developing more climate-resilient coffee varieties amid these challenges (AP News via The Daily Record, 1 Nov 2025).