The new Brew Crew: Gen Z are turning their backs on fancy barista coffee for a good old-fashioned cup of tea

Last year saw coffee overtake tea as the UK’s preferred drink, with 63% of consumers saying they opted for beans over brew.

But a poll of Amazon workers under 28 has revealed over half (52%) would prefer tea to a fancy latte, flat white or cappuccino.

Over half (55%) said tea makes them feel calm and centered, while 22% said the main reason was “tea just tastes better”. A quarter (25%) said they avoid coffee because it makes them feel “jittery and anxious”, while 13% said coffee is too expensive.

The survey is part of Amazon’s Chatterbox series which shines a light on the personalities and opinions of its employees and acts as a modern-day barometer of UK opinions. With a workforce of around 75,000 across the UK, Amazon is perfectly placed to explore the topics that matter most.

Oxford Mathematician and Countdown star Dr Tom Crawford said: “The data obtained in the Amazon survey is a fascinating insight into the make-up of modern-day Britain.”

The research ties into Amazon’s latest video - where workers debate unpopular opinions: Coffee or Tea?

Here’s why Gen Z are driving Britain’s tea revival - according to tea expert Jane Malyon

1. Spill The Tea

Whether it’s sharing a pot with a friend or simply asking someone how they take theirs, tea is a simple way to break the ice and connect. It’s no surprise a recent poll of Amazon workers under 28 as part of its Chatterbox series has revealed over half (52%) would prefer tea to a fancy latte, flat white or cappuccino. In a time when young people are craving real connection, the act of making and enjoying tea together is making a comeback.

2. Feeling The Coffee Crunch

The price of coffee is going up. These days you’re looking at £5 or more for a specialty coffee - which, for some people, is the same as lunch or even a glass of wine. And young people ditching their usual coffee shops are turning to tea as an alternative treat - one that comes without the hefty price tag. With 13% of Gen Z in the Amazon poll saying coffee is simply too expensive, it’s clear the cost is a factor.

3. Home Comforts

A good old mug of tea is a staple of British homes - and that connection runs deep. There’s something about having a cuppa that feels familiar and comforting, and young people seem to be really appreciating that nostalgia. In a world that often loves fast and feels intense, it’s one of the simple comforts that they are enjoying the most.

4. Tradition, But With A Modern Twist

While coffee has had a massive spike in popularity in recent years, tea has been a part of British life for centuries. However, that’s not to say people can’t put their own spin on it. Alongside the builder’s cuppa, there’s now a wide range of herbal and iced teas to choose from - with many of the traditional brands, such as Yorkshire Tea, releasing their own versions.

5. A Boost… Without The Jitters

With many Gen Zs cutting back on caffeine and sugar, tea offers a lighter, more balanced option. Herbal teas, green teas, and even black teas have a reputation for being kinder on the body and low in calories… and unlike coffee, won’t leave you feeling anxious and jittery if you drink too much. Tea even has the added benefit of cooling you down in hot weather and warming you up when it’s cold.