Caffè Nero and Myprotein Partner to Launch Protein Iced Drinks; Iced Drinks Now Account for 14.7% of Its Beverage Sales

Caffè Nero has partnered with sports nutrition brand Myprotein to launch two protein iced drinks in its UK stores: Iced Vanilla Protein Matcha Latte and Iced Vanilla Protein Latte. The two companies said the two drinks contain 24 grams and 25 grams of protein respectively, with fewer than 160 calories per cup. The products are handmade by in-store baristas and are available in more than 600 stores across the UK.^[1]

According to the two companies, the drinks are based on skimmed milk and sugar-free vanilla flavoring, with matcha or Caffè Nero’s Classico coffee blend added respectively, along with Myprotein protein powder. These are the first products under the partnership, with more recipes expected to launch in January next year.^[1]

Caffè Nero disclosed that iced drinks currently account for 14.7% of its total beverage sales, compared with 8.1% five years ago; iced drink sales increased 52% year on year in the last financial year. Neil Mistry, CEO of Myprotein parent company THG Nutrition, said protein products have moved from gym settings into everyday life, and coffee is the natural next step, noting that protein lattes have already emerged in the United States. Lysa Hardy, CEO of Caffè Nero UK, said the two new products respond to customers’ growing demand for high-protein drinks.^[1]

The partnership also continues Myprotein’s expansion into retail and foodservice channels. The brand recently launched a whey protein shake inspired by the Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnut, sold through Boots, as well as protein powders in SNICKERS, MARS and Bounty flavors under a licensing partnership with Mars Wrigley.^[1]