Coffee News Recap, 13 Mar: Brazil & Vietnam coffee exports fell in February, RFK Jr. challenges Starbucks and Dunkin’ over sugar levels & other stories

Every Friday, Perfect Daily Grind rounds up the top coffee industry news from the week.

Editor’s note

“America runs on Dunkin'” – but Robert F. Kennedy Jr. disagrees. The US Health Secretary recently took aim at the coffee and doughnut chain, alongside Starbucks, for its sugar-laden drinks.

Under RFK Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative to overhaul food ingredient rules, he wants both chains to prove their high-sugar drinks are safe for teenagers. The numbers are striking: at least six Dunkin’ drinks each contain over 100g of sugar, with a large Triple Mocha Frozen Coffee coming in at a staggering 165g.

The health concerns are understandable, particularly given Gen Z’s appetite for flavoured, customised coffee drinks. But RFK Jr. cut US$500m in mRNA vaccine funding last year, which makes his focus on Starbucks and Dunkin’ feel rather misguided.

Still, publicly calling out major coffee chains for their sugar content could push them towards lower-calorie options. The functional coffee market has grown considerably as more consumers pay closer attention to health and wellness. A shift in this direction, whether voluntary or applied through political pressure, may be where the market ends up.

Top stories of the week

Mon, 9 Mar –Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is demanding safety data for beverages containing upwards of 115 grams of sugar, specifically citing risks to teenagers. The move is part of the Make America Healthy Again initiative, which targets ultra-processed ingredients and high-calorie drinks. (Washington, DC, US)US Health Secretary RFK Jr. challenges Starbucks and Dunkin’ over sugar levels.

Tue, 10 Mar–Vietnam’s February exports fell by over 16%, a decline local traders attributed to high domestic prices and limited stock. Brazilian coffee exports totalled 2.6 million bags last month, down 23.5%. Cecafé president Márcio Ferreira attributes the decline to falling arabica prices. (Hanoi, Vietnam & Brasília, Brazil)Brazil&Vietnamcoffee exports both fell in February.

Wed, 11 Mar –The Santa Monica store features a 250-sq-ft setup with a La Marzocco KB90 espresso machine, batch brew systems, and a streamlined menu to minimise wait times. (Santa Monica, California, US).Intelligentsiaopens first drive-thru store

Wed, 11 Mar –Volcafe North America is now the sole authorised representative of the Volcafe, Volcafe Specialty, Volcafe Way, Volcafe Verified, and Volcafe Excellence brands in the region. The former licensee now operates independently as Coastal Commodities and no longer represents the Volcafe brand or its portfolio. (Red Bank, New Jersey, US)Volcafe brings North American operations under direct leadership.

Thu, 12 Mar–The International Coffee Organisation first established International Coffee Day in 2014. The General Assembly’s decision to officially designate the annual event on Oct 1st underscores coffee’s cultural, social, and historical significance. (New York City, New York, US)UN General Assembly officially designates October 1st as International Coffee Day.

Fri, 13 Mar –The guide covers over 139,000 contracts from 156 coffee roasters, traders, and retailers. The median price for green specialty coffees in 2024/25 was US$4.39/lb. Lower-end prices were US$3.70/lb, while higher-end prices were US$5.50/lb. (Atlanta, Georgia, US)The 2025 Specialty Coffee Transaction Guide released, covering over 2.5 billion lbs of green coffee.

Industry news

Mon, 9 Mar –The New York chain is shifting its business model after nearly two decades of exclusively operating company-owned shops. The brand currently has over 40 sites and seeks to enter new markets quickly. (New York City, New York, US)Gregorys Coffee begins franchising to accelerate growth.

Mon, 9 Mar –The new leader will focus on improving the supply chain and finding new growth opportunities. This move aims to make the brand’s operations stronger as it expands its international reach. (Brea, California, US)Reborn Coffee appoints Jung Jae Lim as Co-Chief Executive Officer.

Mon, 9 Mar –The coffee chain is now the squad’s official quick-service restaurant through to the 2028 Games. The brand will also feature para-sport highlights in its upcoming national marketing campaigns. (Toronto, Canada)Tim Hortons partners with the Canadian Paralympic Team.

Tue, 10 Mar –Andrea Chiaramello joins to drive retail expansion, bolster North American sales, and scale roasting and distribution from the Invermere base. (Invermere, Canada)Kicking Horse Coffee names former Lavazza exec as president and CEO.

Tue, 10 Mar –The Indonesian chain recently added 60 outlets, bringing its total to 290 across Indonesia and Singapore. Fore says it will prioritise company-owned growth to protect service standards, brand control, and measured scaling across key markets. (Jakarta, Indonesia)Fore Coffee rejects franchise model while expanding in Southeast Asia.

Tue, 10 Mar –The London venue utilised automated marketing workflows to launch its ten-year Jubilee campaign. The platform integrates guest wifi and bookings to drive long-term customer loyalty. (London, UK)Starfish Loves Coffee boosts customer retention to 90% using Stampede technology.

Wed, 11 Mar –In 2025, the company achieved a 40% increase in gross profit, driven by growth in its flavours, extracts, and ingredients segment. The firm continues to expand its extract manufacturing capabilities. (Little Rock, Arkansas, US)Westrock Coffee Company reports full-year net sales of US$1.2bn.

Wed, 11 Mar –Throughout March, the initiative supports sustainable water access in the Nensebo region, aiming to fund its 15th installation. The campaign culminates on World Water Day, March 22, with ONA flagship cafés donating AU$1 from every coffee sold to the cause. (Fyshwick, Australia)ONA Coffee launches “Water for Good” campaign to fund infrastructure in Ethiopia.

Thu, 12 Mar –The £400k investment in Bollington features a new Giesen W60 Roaster and on-site training facilities. Expansion supports the brand’s growth across the UK and sets the stage for new sites in Manchester. (Bollington, UK)Kickback Coffee opens new 10,000 sq.ft HQ to double production.

Thu, 12 Mar –After losing a trademark battle over the phrase “Post Milk Generation” for plant-based products, the brand is giving away its remaining branded stock to fans before the slogan is officially prohibited. (London, UK)Oatly gives away “illegal” merch following UK Supreme Court ruling.

Thu, 12 Mar –The company has doubled its number of roasters as more shops move to roast coffee in-store. This expansion offers a larger range of green coffee for those using the brand’s electric, ventless equipment. (Berkeley, California, US)Bellwether Coffee expands roaster network and marketplace.

Fri, 13 Mar –Smith brings over 25 years of experience to the role, overseeing popular brands like Chock full o’Nuts and Segafredo Zanetti. He replaces John Battle as the firm focuses on new strategic goals and future growth. (Portsmouth, Virginia, US)Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA appoints Matthew Smith as president.

Fri, 13 Mar –European Union deforestation regulations now include soluble coffee products, requiring firms to prove beans were not grown on cleared forest land. (Brussels, Belgium)Instant coffee faces new challenges under EUDR rules.

New launch

Mon, 9 Mar –The book follows Morgan’s journey from local Oregon cafés to global competition stages, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the specialty coffee industry and the community built around it. (Portland, Oregon, US)US Barista Champion.Morgan Eckrothpublishes debut bookCoffee For Here

Mon, 9 Mar –The Chinese chain plans to enter the Brussels market with competitive pricing as part of its rapid global expansion. This move marks a significant step for the company in Western Europe. (Brussels, Belgium)Cotti Coffee to open first Belgian outlet.

Mon, 9 Mar –New conneX leasing bundles equipment, preventive maintenance, service, and connectivity under fixed monthly payments. (Guildford, UK)Merrychef offers manufacturer-backed leasing solution.

Tue, 10 Mar –Opened in a restored 1920s Art Deco building, the design-led site features an open Saturday kitchen, chef’s island, live baking and barista workshops, and events. (Newbury, UK)Cornish Bakery opens ‘bakery of light and optimism’ in Newbury.

Tue, 10 Mar –The limited-edition Black Phoenix Colombian Gesha, grown by Deyanira Ortíz, is part of Forest Coffee’s Black Condor Project, an initiative to build coffee infrastructure in Gaitana – an area destabilised by violent conflict. (New York City, New York, US)Coffee Project NY’s International Women’s Day release spotlights women producers.

Tue, 10 Mar –The new weekly subscription service specifically scouts “hidden gem” roasters with small followings and 15lb batch capacities. Cup Scout meets roasters in person to host cuppings and source exclusive small batches to ship to subscribers weekly. (Atlanta, Georgia, US)Cup Scout launches to showcase upcoming micro roasters in the US.

Wed, 11 Mar –Designed for high-volume venues, the new “Smart Traditional” platform features Intelligent Portafilter Recognition and integrated self-adjusting grinders. A final launch is scheduled for WoC Brussels. (Susegana, Italy)Astoria unveils ST-400 and ST-800 machines at Internoga.

Wed, 11 Mar –Despite global economic tensions, the Swiss manufacturer refurbished over 500 Black&White4 modules and 100 Black&White3 end-of-life machines for reintroduction to the market. The report also highlights the uniqueBean social project and international university collaborations. (Weggis, Switzerland)Thermoplan releases 2025 Sustainability Report focused on circular economy.

Thu, 12 Mar –The drive-thru chain’s new canned line features popular flavours like Blondie and Brunette. This retail expansion marks a major step for the brand, bringing its signature cold brews to a wider consumer base beyond its kiosks. (Fayetteville, Arkansas, US)7 Brew launches ready-to-drink coffees in Walmart stores across Arkansas.

Thu, 12 Mar–Designed for professional sensory evaluation and roast development, the bowl joins the brand’s 2026 lineup of precision equipment. It aims to provide roasters and baristas with a standardised tool for accurate flavour analysis. (Guangzhou, China)MHW-3BOMBER launches new cupping bowl.

Fri, 13 Mar–The new specialty coffee shop, located in Parque Coinca, is described as a space where coffee and ideas meet. Owned by Jayson Galvis, former CoE international judge and head judge at the Global Coffee Awards, the venue aims to foster community through high-quality service and “coffee alchemy”. (Armenia, Colombia)Nigredo Café opens its doors in Colombia.

Trade & production

Mon, 9 Mar –Severe drought and reduced harvests in the world’s top robusta producer are creating a shortage in the market. This turmoil is expected to push up prices for instant coffee and espresso blends worldwide as stocks reach record lows. Traders are monitoring weather patterns closely. (Hanoi, Vietnam)Vietnam supply issues threaten to raise global coffee costs.

Mon, 9 Mar –The Biological Institute in São Paulo is adding hundreds of saplings to its historic grove to boost research and education. This unique green space helps scientists study pests and the impact of climate change while teaching city residents about coffee’s journey from seed to cup. (São Paulo, Brazil)World’s largest urban coffee farm plants new trees in Brazil.

Tue, 10 Mar –. The country shipped over 600,000 bags in a single month, marking its highest volume in decades. High global prices and better farming practices helped drive the surge in sales. This boost strengthens the nation’s position as a top African producer. (Kampala, Uganda)Uganda achieves record coffee exports to start the new season

Wed, 11 Mar –While domestic consumption of high-quality beans is rising, the sector faces hurdles including high production cos,ts and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. Experts emphasise the need for better technical assistance to help small producers maintain quality and sustainability standards. (São Paulo, Brazil)Specialty coffees gain ground in Brazil despite structural and climate challenges.

Thu, 12 Mar–While climate change forces producers to invest in soil restoration and shade management practices, falling global prices and high debt are leaving many unable to afford necessary changes. Experts warn that the resource gap risks leaving small farms behind. (College Station, Texas, US)Smallholder coffee producers in Central America face rising climate adaptation costs.

Fri, 13 Mar –Authorities are working to brand the region’s unique arabica, grown at high altitudes in Maharashtra, to boost its market value. The initiative includes improving processing infrastructure and supporting local tribal farmers. (Nagpur, India)Chikhaldara coffee set to receive national recognition and GI status.

Research

Mon, 9 Mar –Toast analysed same-store sales across US restaurants on the platform between January 2024 and December 2025, finding that new format drinks are overtaking American staples. Sales of regular hot drip coffee fell by 3%, while cold brew dipped by 2.2%. “Handcrafted barista-made” drinks saw the biggest increase, with espresso up by 3.3%. (New York City, New York, US)New research shows younger consumers are changing US coffee culture.

Tue, 10 Mar –Researchers found that replacing 50% of animal fat with dried coffee cherry waste maintained burger texture and juiciness. The antioxidant-rich powder also improved shelf life by preventing spoilage during storage. (Athens, Georgia, US)Study explores coffee pulp as beef fat substitute.

Wed, 11 Mar –Retail data shows a significant surge in demand for low-sugar sodas and decaffeinated coffee, with decaf sales rising by over 40% year-on-year. This shift reflects a growing priority on wellness and sleep quality among Gen Z and millennials. (Seoul, South Korea)Young consumers in South Korea pivot toward “healthy pleasure” beverage choices.

Thu, 12 Mar –Research with more than 30,000 adults found that people who regularly drink coffee do not show meaningful differences in sleep quality or daytime tiredness compared with non-drinkers, suggesting daily coffee habits may affect sleep less than commonly believed. (Linköping, Sweden)Study finds coffee intake weakly linked to sleep quality.

Events & competitions

Mon, 9 Mar –The event will feature workshops, cuppings, the GreatEast Cup competition, live tastings, and more than 150 roasters and exhibitors, aiming to showcase regional specialty coffee brands and offerings. (Bucharest, Romania)Third edition of.COFFeEAST Festivalto run from 20 to 22 March

Mon, 9 Mar –Following a successful event with 20,000 visitors, organisers aim to expand their international footprint next year. Recent showcases highlighted local specialty coffee offerings and a shift towards quality-driven markets. (Bengaluru, India)India International Coffee Festival plans 2027 expansion.

Tue, 10 Mar –The annual convention provides industry professionals with opportunities to gain new knowledge and insight into developments in the US coffee sector. The event includes a trade show exhibition, a speakers’ programme, workshops, educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an awards programme. (Tampa, Florida, US)NCA 2026 Convention takes place in Tampa, Florida.

Wed, 11 Mar–Dalla Corte North America will serve as the Official Machine Sponsor, with competitors using the Zero Plus Classic three-group machine. Franke Coffee Systems will join as the Calibration Sponsor, featuring the Mytico Due. The championship is scheduled to take place from 18 to 21 June in Denver. (Denver, Colorado, US)Dalla Corte and Franke announced as sponsors for 2026 US Barista Championship.

Wed, 11 Mar –The event, taking place on 14 & 15 March, brings together cafés, roasters, and coffee enthusiasts through tastings, latte art demos, expert talks, and live performances, highlighting India’s growing specialty coffee scene and offering visitors a platform to explore different origins and brewing methods. (Hyderabad, India)Hyderabad Coffee Festival celebrates India’s growing coffee culture.

Thu, 12 Mar –Scheduled for 14 to 17 May, the contest challenges professionals to showcase their technical skills and creativity across three rounds, including a full-immersion brewing round and a designer drink category. Toddy will host a Cold Brew Championship at PRF El Salvador on 26 & 27 March 2026. (London, UK)Toddy to host Cold Brew Competition at London Coffee Festival.

Thu, 12 Mar –. Wood Fired Coffee founder Mark Pupo will lead the session on Monday, 30 March, where he will share the history of the drink, the origins of Wood Fired Coffee, and how the coffee is blended to enhance milk-based drinks. Visitors will also have the chance to make their own flat white. (London, UK)Wood Fired Coffee to host interactive flat white workshop

Fri, 13 Mar –Hosted at Black Lodge Brewery on 6 & 7 June, the event will feature local and national coffee businesses, an industry-led Tasting Lab, and a Roasters’ Village. (Liverpool, UK)Liverpool Coffee Festival returns for its third year.

Fri, 13 Mar–Representing Kaffeemacher, Hohlmann secured his second Barista title, while Rieker won Coffee in Good Spirits. Both now advance to their respective World Coffee Championships, to be held in Panama and Brussels. (Bremen, Germany)Felix Hohlmann and Michael Rieker win 2026 German Barista and CIGS Championships.

Here are a few coffee news stories from previous weeks that you might find interesting. Take a look:

Thu, 26 Feb –The new drive-thru site in Georgia marks a major growth milestone for the regional brand. The company continues to sign new franchise agreements to scale quickly. (Hazlehurst, Georgia, US)Ellianos Coffee opens 75th location to expand Southeast footprint.

Thu, 5 Mar –The 2026 initiative highlights the vital role female workers play in global food security and the coffee supply chain. Leaders aim to increase women’s land rights and access to technology to help boost crop yields and local economies. (Rome, Italy)FAO launches International Year of the Woman Farmer to close gender gaps.

Thu, 5 Mar –The chain plans to rapidly increase its footprint from the current 130 sites across the US. This aggressive growth strategy focuses on high-traffic areas and regional hubs to compete with larger industry players. (Scottsdale, Arizona, US)Black Rock Coffee Bar targets 1,000 locations in expansion push.

Photo credits: Morgan Eckroth, COFFeEAST Festival

Sign up to our weekly coffee news recap to get a summary of all the biggest stories in the sector, delivered straight to your inbox every Monday.

Want to keep up with current affairs in the coffee industry? Check out last week’s coffee news stories.