Diana Golovanova, Researcher at the Gaidar Institute’s International Best Practices Analysis Department, spoke to the Moscow City News Agency about rising coffee prices and changes in Russian consumer habits amid the rising cost of drinks in coffee shops.
According to the expert, making coffee at home is significantly cheaper today than buying drinks to go. The difference may become particularly noticeable in the coming years amid the continuing rise in prices in the food service sector.
“The cost of a cup of coffee in cafes today ranges from 300 to 350 rubles, and, according to experts’ forecasts, by the end of 2026 it could rise to 500–600 rubles, whereas making coffee at home is significantly cheaper. For example, a cup of black coffee at home costs only 40–50 rubles, and a cappuccino with milk costs between 55 and 70 rubles, which saves five to six times as much compared to a coffee shop,” noted Diana Golovanova.
The expert explained that the main component of the cost of homemade coffee is the beans. At the same time, the retail price of high-quality coffee has risen significantly in recent years.
“At the same time, the main contributor to the cost of a home-brewed cup is the beans, a high- quality 1-kg package of which now costs about 2,000–2,500 rubles in stores. “If we compare the current situation with 2016, prices in cafes have risen more than fivefold, while retail coffee beans have become 80% more expensive over the past three years alone, and over the past 10 years, the increase has ranged from 150% to 200%,” Golovanova emphasized.
Against the backdrop of rising costs, Russians are increasingly trying to recreate their usual coffee ritual at home. According to the expert, demand is growing not only for coffee but also for related products.
“At the same time, people have started buying syrups, toppings, and various accessories like manual cappuccino makers more actively, trying to recreate their usual ritual at home without unnecessary expenses,” concluded Diana Golovanova.