Top Coffee Market News for September 2025
- Gabriel Scholze
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
The global coffee market is in turmoil, with billion-dollar mergers, strategic sales, and restructurings promising to reshape the industry. At Santa Coffee, as a Brazilian brand dedicated to specialty coffee and the promotion of Brazilian culture in China and Brazil, we are closely monitoring these changes. They not only impact market giants but also open up opportunities for authentic brands like ours, which focus on quality, sustainability, and cultural connections. Let's analyze the main news of September 2025 and how they may influence the future of coffee.
Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) and JDE Peet's Merger: A New Giant on the Horizon
One of the biggest developments is the $18 billion deal between Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) and JDE Peet's, creating two new entities: the Global Coffee Co., with $16 billion in global sales, and the US-focused Beverage Co. with $11 billion. This merger is expected to generate $400 million in annual efficiencies, positioning the group as a direct rival to Nestlé in the packaged coffee segment.
This consolidation accelerates the trend toward concentration in the industry, which could reduce operating costs and improve global distribution. However, it also raises concerns about market concentration, potentially limiting options for consumers and affecting small producers. For Santa Coffee, this reinforces the importance of our niche in Brazilian specialty coffee. Our beans, with unique flavors of caramel, chocolate, and fruity notes, stand out in a market increasingly dominated by giants, offering an authentic cultural experience that goes beyond the commodity.
Coca-Cola Considers Selling Costa Coffee: Strategic Pivot
Another significant development is the potential sale of Costa Coffee by Coca-Cola. Acquired in 2018 for over US$5 billion, the chain is now being evaluated for strategic options, with the help of Lazard Bank. Initial discussions with private equity funds have already taken place, and formal offers are expected in the fall of 2025. This signals a pivot for Coca-Cola away from hot beverages, focusing on its core business of soft drinks and cold beverages.
This move reflects the challenges in the coffee industry, such as intense competition and changing consumer habits. For brands like Santa Coffee, which operate at the intersection of Brazil and China, this could open up opportunities for partnerships or expansion in emerging markets. With the growth of coffee in China—where per capita consumption reached 22.24 cups per year in 2024—we are positioned to capture this demand with our Brazilian coffee, promoting the culture at events like the Brazil Center in Shanghai.
Starbucks: Sale of China Unit and Store Closures
Starbucks is also making headlines by seeking bids for its China unit, potentially valued at $10 billion, in response to market share losses. Non-binding offers are expected within two weeks. Additionally, the company plans to close or convert approximately 90 pickup-only stores by 2026, returning to a focus on traditional coffee experiences.
This strategy highlights the need to adapt in competitive markets like China, where local rivals like Luckin Coffee are growing rapidly. For Santa Coffee, this is an opportunity to emphasize our cultural approach: rather than focusing on quick convenience, we offer an immersion in Brazilian tradition, perfect for Chinese consumers seeking authentic connections.
Implications for the Market and Santa Coffee
This news points to a sector undergoing consolidation, focused on efficiency and innovation. While giants restructure, brands like Santa Coffee thrive by valuing origin and culture. In Brazil and China, we continue to promote coffee as a bridge between peoples, with Brazilian exports to China growing 186.1% recently.
Stay tuned for market news and experience true Brazilian flavor with our products. Santa Coffee – where every sip is a celebration.
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