The demand for cold brew coffee has soared, transforming it from a niche offering into a menu staple for cafes and restaurants worldwide – commercial cold brew machines can help business deliver.
In recent years, the ready-to-drink (RTD) cold brew coffee market, including nitro varieties, has experienced substantial growth. The global cold brew coffee market was valued at approximately $604.47 million in 2023 and is expected to grow at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.5% through 2032.
This growth has brought increased attention to the tools used to create it, with the commercial cold brew machine leading the charge in innovation and efficiency.
Modern machines like those from Hardtank, including the Hardtank 20, Hardtank 1T, and Baby Hardtank, represent a significant evolution from traditional brewing methods.
In the past, cold brew was made using basic immersion techniques, such as soaking coffee grounds in buckets for hours. This often resulted in inconsistent flavour, limited capacity, and labour-intensive processes. Today’s commercial cold brew machines address these challenges by delivering faster brewing times, improved safety features, larger capacities, and automated functionality, enhancing overall business efficiency.
We spoke with Amy Voeten from Alternative Brewing about the increased demand for cold brew coffee machines. She stated, “We can already see cold brew taking over! It’s the go-to for anyone craving a smoother, less acidic or cooler coffee – especially during these sweltering Aussie summers.”
“Cold brew is winning hearts everywhere. And let’s be honest, it doesn’t hurt that it’s super photogenic too!”
By investing in the right equipment, businesses can tap into the booming cold brew trend while optimising operations and meeting the growing demand for high-quality, ready-to-serve beverages.

The evolution of commercial cold brew machines
The journey from traditional brewing methods to the advanced commercial cold brew machine highlights how far technology has come in meeting the needs of both businesses and consumers.
Historically, cold brew coffee was prepared using a basic immersion process: coffee grounds were steeped in water for extended periods, often in large buckets or vats. While this method is simple, it is also labour-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to inconsistencies in flavour and quality.
Modern cold brew machines, like the Hardtank series, have revolutionised this process. By integrating automation and precision, these machines streamline brewing, ensuring consistency and efficiency. Where traditional methods required 12-24 hours of steeping, commercial cold brew machines now produce high-quality beverages in a fraction of the time, enabling businesses to respond quickly to consumer demand.
This evolution also reflects the broader trends in the coffee industry, where efficiency and scalability are increasingly essential. Machines like the Hardtank 20 and Hardtank 1T offer businesses the ability to brew large quantities of cold brew, catering to high customer demand while maintaining exceptional quality. Similarly, smaller options like the Baby Hardtank allow for innovation in compact spaces, expanding menu possibilities with a minimal footprint.
By embracing advanced equipment, businesses can move beyond the limitations of traditional methods, producing consistent, high-quality cold brew at scale. This evolution isn’t just about convenience; it’s about unlocking new opportunities for growth in a rapidly expanding market.

Why cold brew machines matter in today’s marketplace
The rise of commercial cold brew coffee is more than a fleeting trend – it has cemented itself as a cornerstone of the modern coffee industry. This growth is driven by evolving consumer preferences, particularly among younger demographics who value the smooth, low-acid flavour of cold brew, its versatility, and its convenience in ready-to-drink (RTD) formats.
In this context, commercial cold brew machines play a pivotal role in helping businesses meet market demand efficiently and effectively.
Meeting consumer demand
Cold brew coffee’s popularity has surged due to its appeal to health-conscious and adventurous consumers. Younger audiences are drawn to its lower acidity, customisable nature, and ability to incorporate trendy flavours or innovations like nitro cold brew.
RTD cold brew beverages have further expanded the category, offering convenience for on-the-go lifestyles. To keep pace with this demand, businesses need tools that can consistently produce high volumes of cold brew without compromising on quality, and modern commercial cold brew machines deliver just that.
Enhancing operational efficiency
Traditional brewing methods can’t match the speed and capacity required by today’s high-volume coffeehouses and retail environments. Advanced cold brew machines, like those from Hardtank, address this gap by dramatically reducing brewing times, allowing businesses to serve more customers while minimising waste.
The integration of features like automated cleaning cycles and nitro taps simplifies operations, freeing up staff for other tasks and improving overall workflow.
“Cold brew setups are already super eco-friendly!” says Amy.
“No heat, no hassle, just gravity. These towers quietly brew up liquid gold without wasting a drop of energy. Honestly, they’re perfect for anyone, no matter your coffee skills.”
Adapting to market trends
The versatility of cold brew machines makes them a valuable asset in adapting to current market trends. Machines like the Baby Hardtank are designed for smaller spaces and innovative beverage offerings, enabling cafés to expand their menus with ease.
Whether it’s introducing cascara tea, mocktails, or nitro-infused beverages, a well-chosen commercial cold brew machine ensures businesses stay relevant in a competitive market.
By investing in advanced cold brew coffee machines, businesses can not only cater to the growing demand for cold brew but also position themselves as leaders in a fast-evolving industry. These machines offer the efficiency, scalability, and flexibility needed to thrive in a market that values both quality and convenience.

Key features of Hardtank commercial cold brew machines
Hardtank machines are designed to enhance efficiency, safety, and versatility, catering to businesses aiming to capitalise on the growing cold brew coffee market. These machines dramatically reduce brewing times, enabling faster production without sacrificing quality. Models like the Hardtank 20 and 1T provide high-capacity solutions equipped with integrated nitro taps for seamless serving of nitro cold brew, offering a premium experience for customers while streamlining operations.
The Baby Hardtank is a compact option for smaller businesses, ideal for cafés with limited space. It supports a variety of beverages, including cascara tea and mocktails, allowing businesses to expand their menus creatively. Built with stainless steel and featuring automated cleaning cycles, Hardtank machines prioritise hygiene and safety, reducing labour demands and operational risks.
With their robust construction, durability, and efficient design, Hardtank machines offer a cost-effective solution that ensures a rapid return on investment. By combining practicality with innovation, they empower businesses to meet rising consumer demand, deliver high-quality beverages, and stay competitive in an evolving market.
Whether it’s the high-volume Hardtank 20 with built-in nitro capabilities or the compact Baby Hardtank, which supports menu versatility by brewing other beverages, Hardtank machines cater to operations of all sizes.
Their stainless steel construction, automated cleaning systems, and fast return on investment make them practical and sustainable choices for forward-thinking businesses.
By adopting modern cold brew technology, businesses can elevate their offerings, reduce operational challenges, and stay competitive in an ever-expanding market. Hardtank’s advanced machines position businesses for success, helping them thrive in the evolving world of coffee innovation.
To learn more about Hardtank commercial cold brew machines, visit our website or contact us directly.
If you missed our last Cold Brew Webinar, you can still catch a recording here!
Commercial cold brew machine