There is no secret about how fast cold brew is growing, spurred on by advanced commercial cold brew makers.

In 2019, the cold brew market was valued at over $400 million, but between 2024 and 2031, it is expected to grow by 22.7% compounded annually, reaching a value of over $3.10 billion.  

This rapid expansion shows a clear opportunity for businesses in the food and beverage industry. Cold brew is a profitable and popular segment of the coffee industry. For coffee shops, restaurants, and cafes, adding it to their menu can tap into this growing trend, and selecting the right technology is crucial for success. 

However, it’s not always as simple as you think. Batch size and brew time can be challenging from an operational standpoint. Ultimately, choosing the right commercial cold brew maker can streamline your operations, help you consistently produce high-quality beverages, and ultimately boost profitability and appeal.

We spoke to Maria Mejia, founder and CEO of The Cold Brew Project, to learn more about the importance of investing in the right equipment.

Commercial cold brew can diversify and stratify your offerings

A commercial cold brew maker can do more than just add another drink to your menu – it can enhance your entire product lineup, from cold brew and nitro coffee to cocktails and mocktails. 

Exciting and innovative alternatives to classic hot coffee beverages are key to attracting new customers, especially younger ones.

“Hot coffee is no longer seen as a perk – it’s an expected and often unappreciated expense. Employees are now taking time out of their workday to leave the office for cold coffee,” says Maria. “Providing what they want in the breakroom might seem like a luxury, but it actually keeps them productive, focused and energised at work. The cold brew tap has become the millennial water cooler.”

Another significant benefit of cold brew is its scalability. Traditional brewing methods often require a lot of training and only yield one batch per day. Modern commercial systems are easier to use and can produce one batch of cold brew in under an hour. 

Moreover, businesses can increase their market share by capitalising on these new and growing segments, standing out in a crowded market.

“When you realise that 75% of Starbucks’ beverage sales are now from cold drinks, it’s clear how much the market has shifted. Millennials, who now make up the largest group in the workplace, prefer cold coffee,” Maria says. “Having cold brew on tap isn’t just about offering another drink – it’s about showing that you understand and value what this new generation wants.”

Your cold brew system should produce high-quality beverages

Customers expect a consistent and flavourful cold brew experience, so it’s essential to invest in a commercial cold brew maker that prioritises quality.

To make high-quality cold brew, historically, businesses have had to use methods which take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours to prepare a batch. However, new technology has greatly reduced brewtime required while simultaneously enhancing quality. In the case of Hardtank, for instance, this is possible thanks to our cutting-edge use of recirculation. 

“Making coffee is as much an art as it is a science, with so many variables at play – everything from the coffee’s origin and roast profile to grind size, temperature, brewing time, and extraction method determines the outcome,” says Maria. 

A commercial cold brew maker with high-quality filtering mechanisms will also help express the coffee’s natural attributes and better meet customer expectations. It will remove unwanted sediment and produce clean, smooth coffee with a consistent mouthfeel. 

Ultimately, businesses with the right commercial cold brew system will stand out from the crowd and enjoy improved customer loyalty as a result.

Ensure your commercial cold brew system is easy to use

Operational efficiency is critical for any business, and a user-friendly commercial cold brew maker can streamline workflow, making it easier for staff to manage production and reduce bottlenecks and downtime.

Features like intuitive controls and simplified interfaces can reduce staff training time and minimise errors during busy shifts. Cleaning and maintenance are other important factors to consider, as they have a significant effect on service speed. Machines with automated cleaning cycles ensure your cold brew is safe and hygienic.

Finally, in a market where convenience is king, brewing and dispensing quickly is crucial.

“We’ve talked to countless business owners, office managers, and coffee lovers, and convenience and taste are always top priorities. People don’t want to wait for their coffee or deal with the hassle of brewing it themselves,” says Maria.

“Cold brew addresses these issues perfectly. With it on tap, you eliminate wait times and avoid the mess of wet grounds. It’s always fresh and ready to drink, without the risk of getting stale like hot coffee.”

Why invest in quality equipment?

By investing in a system designed to easily brew the highest-quality cold brew through the simplest user experience, businesses can ensure that their cold brew stands out from competitors and consistently meets customer expectations. 

As customers become more discerning about the quality of the food and beverages they consume, modern equipment should help businesses match expectations. 

“When it comes to cold brew, quality really matters. Great equipment is important, but if the coffee itself isn’t up to par, what’s the point?” says Maria. 

“Today’s consumers are more discerning than ever. With the rise of the specialty coffee movement, expectations are higher. People can easily tell the difference when they taste coffee that’s smooth and delicious versus the bitterness that signals lower quality.” 

For businesses that take their coffee seriously, from sourcing and roasting to preparation and serving, investing in the best commercial cold brew maker is the last box to tick.

Hardtank commercial cold brew makers

Hardtank commercial cold brew equipment is an engineering product range built upon and informed by twenty years of specialty coffee experience. 

From large-scale production to countertop brewing, we offer a range of commercial cold brew systems designed to help aspiring businesses stand out from the crowd and build consumer trust. 

Visit our website or contact us directly to learn more about the right commercial cold brew system for your business. 

Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest cold brew equipment developments at Hardtank. 

Commercial cold brew maker