If you have traveled in Italy during this century, it’s likely that you have enjoyed an invigorating little cup of espresso at the bargain price of €1. Sadly, Italy’s beloved inexpensive espresso, a cultural icon served at bars across the country for as little as €1, is poised to undergo a radical change. Coffee prices in Italy are expected to rise significantly, according to industry reports. This unprecedented increase threatens to end the tradition that has long placed affordability at the heart of Italian coffee culture.

Italians enjoy some of the cheapest coffee in Western Europe, with espresso averaging €1.20 and cappuccinos €1.50 in the country’s coffee bars and cafés. This affordability fuels a massive coffee culture, with 6 billion cups consumed annually, generating €7 billion in revenue.

Climate-related disruptions to global coffee supply could push espresso prices up by 66% – up to €2 . The basis for this price hike lies in rising global coffee costs, driven by climate-induced production challenges in major coffee-growing regions such as Brazil and Vietnam.

This is a significant moment for Italy, where regulations and social norms have historically kept espresso prices artificially low. Baristas, keenly aware of the espresso’s cultural significance, have long resisted price hikes to maintain accessibility for all. But as input costs spiral out of control, even the most stoic defenders of the €1 espresso are finding the model unsustainable.

Espresso is more than just a drink in Italy; it is a ritual that defines daily life. Italians visit coffee bars multiple times a day, enjoying the social interaction and the momentary respite provided by a quick shot of coffee. The €1 espresso has been a cornerstone of this practice, offering an affordable luxury even during tough economic times.