Suffolk coffee roasters and teasmiths Butterworth & Son from Bury St Edmunds on how lockdown changed the way people enjoy their coffee

The world changed drastically in 2020. . . we all know that. We also all know that despite many normalities returning and life “almost” going back to how it was, there are a lot of things that are still being affected or will remain permanently so.

Subtle practices of mask wearing and social distancing still occur but on a much less obvious level. Online shopping and delivery services are still on the up despite the return of the high street buzz.

However, one practice that was introduced during Covid and one that remains as strong as ever – so much so it is now widely incorporated into life despite its initial introduction – is working from home.

Yes, I know WFH was a concept way before the lockdowns but you cannot deny it became a global norm as soon as. . . well, everything kicked off you could say!

Now, three years since offices first emptied, many of them remain so. WFH home as become the preferred choice for many of us.

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Don’t get me wrong, I love working from home. It’s great. I work best on my own, in my own space and, yes, in my dressing gown. But that doesn’t mean I haven’t seen the effects it has had on things like coffee shops and local cafés.

I remember before the first lockdown when I was working at Guats Up! on Guildhall Street; we opened at 8am (though our regulars smiled through the window in anticipation usually before then) and often, that first hour was our busiest period for takeaway coffees. Why? Offices.

Everyone wanted their caffeine fix or a pastry treat before sitting down at their desk for the day. We would often see the same people on their lunch break or on their way home. We got to know our office regulars extremely well, so it wasn’t just a business benefit when it came to them being there. . . it was a great way to start your morning; a friendly chat.

When the high street returned and coffee shops once again opened their doors to the public they became social hubs. Sitting inside a location, actually at a table with your friends, became the main attraction. It was a turn away from the morning takeaways and lunchtime business meets.

None of this is a bad thing, it’s just a noticeable change in the industry, and one worth keeping an eye on.

Trends are forever changing and evolving and the coffee world is not free from those influences. Things such as noticing the difference in cliental during certain points in time can ultimately lead to you as a business person making better choices for your café, or as a customer, supporting your local favourites on a more regular basis. The industry has and will continue to be affected by exterior forces but it’s the love for coffee that keeps it going.

So remember to pay attention to the world around you. To be kind and considerate and, of course, to stay caffeinated. Whether it’s under a throw on your sofa or it’s trying something new in your go to coffee spot. . . just do it!

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Butterworth & Son coffee roasters and tea smiths are based on Moreton Hall, Bury St Edmunds

Owner Rob Butterworth’s job takes him around the world visiting coffee farmers to source great coffees

Visit butterworthandson.co.uk