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Move over drip coffee, there’s a cooler, more customizable kid in town – cold brew. And it’s not just the smooth, less acidic taste that’s got Millennials and Gen Z in a chokehold; it’s the power to personalize their perfect cup, especially when they grab it on the go from their favorite convenience store.

Think about it. These are generations grew up with endless options, from personalized playlists to curated social media feeds. So why settle for an ordinary cup of joe? At convenience stores, cold brew has become their canvas for creativity. Let’s dive into the top 5 reasons why Millennials and Gen Z love customizing their cold brew coffee.

1. The Cream of the Crop (and Beyond!): A World of Milk and Creamer Choices

Forget just “milk or cream?” For Gen Z, in particular, the creamer aisle is their oyster. A whopping 85% of Gen Z coffee aficionados reach for a creamer to jazz up their brew, according to the National Association of Convenience Stores. And it’s not just your standard half-and-half. Plant-based powerhouses like almond, oat, and coconut milk are also massive hits with both Millennials and Gen Z. It’s not just about taste; it’s about aligning with health-conscious choices and a desire for sustainable options. Convenience stores that stock a diverse range of milk and creamer alternatives are speaking directly to these values. Read more here.

2. Flavor Fiesta: Syrups That Sing

Want to take your cold brew from mellow to marvelous? Flavored syrups are the secret weapon for both Millennials and Gen Z. Whether it’s a classic vanilla for a touch of sweetness, a rich caramel for indulgence, or exciting seasonal concoctions, these syrups offer a simple yet effective way to transform a regular cold brew into a personalized treat. As Commonwealth Joe points out, this desire for unique flavor experiences is a key part of the cold brew culture among younger consumers. Offering a well-stocked syrup station is like offering a blank canvas for their taste buds. Find out more here.

3. Sweetness on Their Terms: Tailoring the Sugar Rush

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all sweetness. Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly mindful of their sugar intake, often leaning towards lower sugar options or natural sweeteners. This is where convenience stores with self-serve machines offering adjustable sweetness levels truly shine. Perfect Daily Grind highlighted how cold brew initially captured the Millennial market, and this preference for customization, including sweetness control, is a significant factor in its continued popularity with both generations. Giving them the power to control the sweet spot is a smart move. Check it out here.

4. Nitro Boost and Functional Fun: More Than Just Caffeine

The cold brew experience is evolving. Nitro cold brew, with its velvety smooth texture thanks to nitrogen infusion, has become a sought-after option. But the customization doesn’t stop there. The trend of functional enhancements, like adding protein or vitamins, is gaining serious traction. Graham Packaging noted the “hottest trend in coffee” being cold brew, and this embrace of added benefits aligns perfectly with the health and wellness focus often seen with younger consumers. Offering these upgrades can elevate a simple coffee into a more purposeful beverage. See more here.

5. The Joy of Creation: Mixing, Matching, and Making it Their Own

Ultimately, the love for customized cold brew boils down to the desire for personalization and creativity. Millennials and Gen Z enjoy the process of mixing and matching different flavors, milks, and sweeteners to craft a coffee that’s uniquely theirs. As Solai Coffee aptly put it, this customization aspect is a major driver in their preference for cold brew, especially in the convenient setting of a c-store. It’s not just about getting a caffeine fix; it’s about creating an experience, a personalized ritual that fits their individual tastes and preferences. Read about it here.

The Bottom Line: Winning with the Cool Crowd

For convenience stores looking to win over the Millennial and Gen Z market, embracing the customization trend in cold brew is a no-brainer. By offering a diverse range of options, from plant-based milks and exciting syrups to adjustable sweetness levels and innovative additions like nitro and functional enhancements, you’re not just selling coffee – you’re empowering your customers to create their perfect brew. And in a world where personalization reigns supreme, that’s a recipe for success.

Next time we’ll explore cold brew as one of the fastest-growing beverage segments.