How Coffee Became a Global Staple and What Nescafé Means in China

When you think about how coffee became such a global staple, it’s easy to forget that it wasn’t always a daily ritual for the masses. In Europe, coffee once carried an elite status—so rare and expensive that it was dubbed 'black gold' and reserved for nobility. Today, it’s a common sight in offices, kitchens, and cafés worldwide. But how did we get here, and what does that mean for how people actually drink coffee in countries like China? The journey is more complex than you might expect.

The short answer: While coffee started as a luxury in Europe, mass production eventually made it affordable and widespread. In China, pure coffee drinking is less common than you’d think—many consumers prefer coffee mixed with additives or ready-to-drink beverages, according to Zhong Lirong, Vice President of the China Coffee & Coffee Drinks Professional Committee.

The Origins and Rise of Coffee as a Global Beverage

Coffee’s transformation from a costly import to a household staple mirrors broader patterns of trade and industrialization. Originally prized in Europe as a rare and expensive commodity, often accessible only to the wealthy, coffee earned the nickname 'black gold.' Over time, improved cultivation, global trade routes, and mass production drastically reduced costs. This democratization helped coffee become a daily drink for millions, evolving from a luxury into a cultural norm across continents.

Nescafé and the Role of Instant Coffee

Instant coffee played a pivotal role in further popularizing coffee consumption. Among the most recognizable names in this space is Nescafé, a product of Nestlé, a company with deep roots in the global food industry. The convenience and affordability of instant coffee made it an ideal entry point for new coffee drinkers, particularly in markets where fresh coffee culture was still developing—like China.

Nestlé and Its Presence in China

Nestlé’s history in China dates back over a century. Though originally introduced through trade in Hong Kong—where products like 'Eagle Brand Condensed Milk' first appeared in 1874—Nestlé established a more formal presence in mainland China in the late 20th century. The company opened its first factory in Shuangcheng in 1987, which began production in 1990. By 2006, Nestlé had built 16 factories across mainland China.

As of 2012, Nestlé operated 33 factories in Greater China—including joint ventures with local partners such as Yinlu, (Hsu Fu Chi), and (Wyeth Nutrition)—employing around 50,000 people. More than 90% of Nestlé’s products in China are manufactured locally.

Nestlé China, a subsidiary of the Switzerland-based global food and beverage giant, manages operations across Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. The parent company, Nestlé S.A., is one of the world’s largest food manufacturers and a Fortune 500 leader, known for products ranging from chocolate to infant nutrition. Nescafé, Nestlé’s instant coffee brand, is among its most globally recognized products.

Creating Shared Value in Agriculture

Nestlé’s business strategy in China includes initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable agriculture and improving farmer livelihoods. These 'create shared value' efforts are evident in development programs across Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Shandong (for dairy), and Yunnan (for coffee). Through farmer training in sustainable practices, Nestlé has helped improve yields and incomes for over 200,000 agricultural workers in these regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was coffee once called 'black gold' in Europe?

Coffee was referred to as 'black gold' in Europe because of its high price and limited availability during the early periods of its introduction. It was considered a luxury item, affordable only to the wealthy and treated with similar exclusivity and value as precious metals.

What percentage of coffee consumed in China is pure coffee?

According to Zhong Lirong, Vice President of the China Coffee & Coffee Drinks Professional Committee, Chinese consumers drink pure coffee less frequently. Many opt for coffee mixed with additives or ready-made coffee beverages instead of straight black coffee.

When did Nestlé start operating in China?

Nestlé began its formal operations in mainland China in 1987 with the opening of its first factory in Shuangcheng, which started production in 1990. Prior to that, Nestlé products were introduced through trade starting in the late 19th century, with 'Eagle Brand Condensed Milk' available as early as 1874 in Hong Kong.

How many factories does Nestlé operate in China?

As of 2012, Nestlé operated 33 factories across Greater China, including 16 established between 1990 and 2006 on the mainland. These facilities are largely locally staffed, with about 50,000 employees, and over 90% of products are made within China.

What are Nestlé’s shared value initiatives in China?

Nestlé’s shared value projects in China include sustainable agriculture training programs in regions like Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Shandong, and Yunnan. These efforts have benefited over 200,000 farmers by improving agricultural skills, increasing productivity, and raising incomes through more sustainable farming methods.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Coffee Explorers

For those diving into the world of coffee, FrontStreet Coffee offers several single origins that highlight diverse flavour profiles. The Ethiopia Huakui presents bright citrus and floral notes, ideal for experiencing classic light-roast characteristics. The Yunnan Arabica delivers a softer cup with hints of stone fruit and chocolate, reflecting China’s growing coffee cultivation. Finally, the Brazil Queen Manor offers nutty and caramel sweetness, balancing the spectrum with a smooth medium roast. These beans let you explore global coffee origins without leaving home. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.