Single-serve coffee continues to be one of the most dynamic drivers of the coffee sector. This is confirmed by the “Coffee Pods and Capsules” report published by Competitive Data, which analyses market developments over the 2021–2024 period and provides forecasts through 2029.
It is a constantly evolving landscape, where the ability to innovate, the sustainability of materials, and the capacity to respond to new consumption habits are becoming increasingly decisive factors.
Compatible capsules: growth driven by innovation
Among the most significant findings is the +9.6% growth of compatible capsules, compared with an almost flat trend (+0.3%) for proprietary capsule systems. Coffee roasters that have invested in compatible solutions are proving better able to strengthen and defend their market position.
Paper coffee pods are also achieving excellent results, with a +19.2% growth rate over the three-year period. The success of these pods, which are also attracting attention from a regulatory perspective, clearly shows that demand for sustainable and easy-to-dispose solutions is constantly increasing. Consumers are not only more attentive to coffee aroma and quality, but also to the sustainability of their everyday choices.
A market growing in value and exports
While the domestic market has reached €1.405 billion (+5.3%), exports are approaching €450 million (+4.4%), confirming Italy’s role as a key hub for innovation in the single-serve coffee sector.
The large-scale retail and online channels continue to show steady growth, while the HoReCa sector is showing signs of recovery, supported by consumers who are increasingly demanding in terms of quality and service.
Carte Dozio: technical materials and sustainable solutions for every format
For more than eighty years, Carte Dozio has supported coffee roasters with a range of technical materials dedicated to the production of coffee pods and capsules, combining performance, food safety, and sustainability.
From filter papers for traditional and compostable pods to multilayer solutions for capsules, as well as compostable PLA films and other biopolymer-based materials, we support the coffee supply chain in selecting the most suitable material according to both production requirements and environmental objectives.
Each format requires specific characteristics in terms of permeability, sealability, and thermal resistance. Carte Dozio provides its customers with tailored expertise, ensuring consistent quality, flexible supply solutions, and a high-value service approach.
This commitment was also confirmed during our recent participation at Host Milano together with our international partner Magnera. Meetings with coffee roasters and manufacturers highlighted a growing interest in a supply chain increasingly focused on sustainability without compromising performance.
Looking ahead
According to Competitive Data forecasts, the overall production value of coffee pods and capsules will exceed €2 billion by 2029, with growth driven primarily by compatible systems and the evolution of materials.
This trend opens new opportunities for the entire supply chain, where quality, innovation, and environmental responsibility remain strategic drivers for addressing the challenges of the coming years.
Carte Dozio will continue to support coffee roasters throughout this journey, with increasingly high-performance and sustainable solutions designed to accompany the transformation of the coffee market.
