Top 10 Global Coffee Brands in 2015: The Oldest is Danish Royal Copenhagen

When people talk about the world’s most iconic coffee-related brands, most think of roasters or retailers—but in 2015, a surprising contender topped the list: not a coffee company at all, but a Danish porcelain maker with deep roots in coffee service tradition. Why was a tableware brand considered among the top coffee brands globally? The answer lies in its longstanding association with the finest coffee experiences.

In 2015, the top-ranked coffee brand worldwide was the Danish Royal Copenhagen company—not a coffee roaster, but a manufacturer of luxury porcelain that has been synonymous with high-end coffee service for centuries. Founded in 1775, it is the oldest company on the list and remains renowned for its craftsmanship and elite coffee presentation.

What Were the Top 10 Global Coffee Brands in 2015?

The 2015 ranking of the world’s top coffee brands reflected a mix of coffee producers, retailers, and related luxury brands. At the very top was Royal Copenhagen, a Danish porcelain manufacturer celebrated not for roasting beans but for serving them in unparalleled style. While traditional coffee brands focused on the drink itself, Royal Copenhagen represented the pinnacle of the coffee experience through its exquisite tableware. This ranking highlighted how deeply intertwined coffee culture is with the art of presentation and service.

Why Is Royal Copenhagen Considered a Coffee Brand?

Royal Copenhagen is officially a porcelain manufacturer, but its inclusion in the 2015 top coffee brands list stems from its historical and ongoing role in high-end coffee service. The brand has long been associated with premium coffee presentations, especially in European aristocratic and diplomatic circles. Its fine china has been used in elite settings where coffee is served, making it an integral part of the luxury coffee experience. Though it doesn’t roast coffee, its craftsmanship elevates the way coffee is presented and perceived.

The Legacy of Royal Copenhagen

Royal Copenhagen, officially known as the Royal Porcelain Manufactory (Den kongelige Porcelænsfabrik), was founded on May 1, 1775, in Copenhagen by Danish Queen Juliane Marie. The brand’s signature blue crown logo symbolizes royal authority, while the three wavy lines represent Denmark’s three straits: Øresund, Storebælt, and Lillebælt. In 1790, the company created its most famous pattern, Flora Danica, characterised by intricate blue underglaze, gold detailing, and Danish botanical motifs. For nearly a century, Flora Danica was produced exclusively for royalty. The factory remained under royal control until 1868, after which it transitioned to private ownership. In 1882–1884, it merged with Aluminia, and later with Bing & Grøndahl (founded in 1853), eventually evolving into the Royal Copenhagen we know today. Each piece of Royal Copenhagen porcelain is hand-painted by artisans, requiring over 30 meticulous steps and the expertise of more than 30 artists—culminating in a true work of art.

How Did Coffee Culture Evolve in Europe?

Coffee was once a luxury reserved for Europe’s elite, often referred to as “black gold” due to its high price and exclusivity. Over time, mass production lowered costs, making coffee a staple beverage across the continent. In China, however, pure coffee drinking remains less common, according to Zhong Lirong, Vice President of the China Coffee & Coffee Beverage Committee. Chinese consumers often prefer coffee mixed with milk or ready-to-drink alternatives rather than straight black coffee. This cultural contrast highlights the differing trajectories of coffee consumption worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which brand was ranked number one in the 2015 global coffee brands list?

The number one brand in the 2015 global coffee brands ranking was Royal Copenhagen, a Danish porcelain manufacturer founded in 1775. Though not a coffee roaster, it was recognised for its association with high-end coffee presentation and service.

Why was Royal Copenhagen included in a list of coffee brands?

Royal Copenhagen was included because of its historical role in serving coffee in elite European circles. Its luxury porcelain has been used for centuries in high-status coffee settings, making it a key part of the premium coffee experience, even though it doesn't roast or sell coffee beans.

What makes Royal Copenhagen’s porcelain unique?

Royal Copenhagen porcelain is hand-painted by master artisans using traditional techniques. Each piece undergoes over 30 production steps and involves more than 30 artists. The most famous pattern, Flora Danica, features intricate blue and gold designs with Danish floral motifs, originally created for royalty in 1790.

Where is Royal Copenhagen based and when was it founded?

Royal Copenhagen was founded in Copenhagen, Denmark, on May 1, 1775, by Queen Juliane Marie. It started as the Royal Porcelain Manufactory and has remained one of Denmark’s premier luxury brands.

How did coffee drinking evolve in Europe over time?

Originally a costly beverage for the European elite—known as “black gold”—coffee became widely accessible through mass production. Its price dropped, and it grew into a staple drink across Europe, unlike in China where black coffee is less popular and consumers often prefer milk-based or ready-to-drink options.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee for Ceramic Service

To pair with your Royal Copenhagen service, try the FrontStreet Coffee Ethiopia Huakui – a vibrant Ethiopian single origin with notes of fresh citrus, jasmine and red berries. For a balanced cup, the FrontStreet Yirgacheffe offers floral tones and a juicy acidity with hints of blueberry. Or go deeper with the FrontStreet PWN Golden Mandheling, delivering a heavy body, low acidity and classic Indonesian earthiness. All three highlight the craftsmanship of fine porcelain. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.