Italian coffee industry faces bar closures despite 5.9 billion euro turnover

The Italian coffee industry presents a dual reality. While the industrial sector is thriving, with a turnover reaching 5.9 billion euros in 2025 and Italy remaining the EU's top roasted coffee producer, the traditional bar landscape is facing significant decline. Reports indicate that over 24,000 bar businesses disappeared between 2019 and 2025, a contraction of 14.2% that resulted in an estimated loss of 7.2 billion euros in consumption, employment, and tax revenue.

In contrast to this commercial desertification, culinary excellence in the sector is being highlighted by the Gambero Rosso 'Best Bars in Italy 2027' guide. The new edition, produced in collaboration with illycaffè, introduces a unified 'Tazzina' rating system to evaluate the holistic experience of a venue. Caffè Gilli in Florence was named the 'Bar of the Year' for its ability to balance historical identity with modern mixology and gastronomy. Other notable recognitions include Caffè Sicilia in Noto, which received the highest 'Three Tazzine' rating and a special historical award.

Additionally, the industry is seeing shifts in consumption habits and sustainability. Segafredo has launched a global 'Take Your Shot' campaign to reposition coffee as a source of proactive energy. Meanwhile, the Cial National Aluminum Packaging Consortium is highlighting the importance of recycling aluminum capsules, noting that new EU regulations are helping to classify these items as packaging to improve recovery rates.