Caffè Nero and Myprotein bring 25g protein lattes to more than 600 UK coffee shops

Caffè Nero has partnered with sports nutrition brand Myprotein to introduce two high-protein iced drinks across its UK coffee shop network, bringing protein-enriched coffee and matcha to more than 600 locations.

• Two new iced drinks contain 24g and 25g of protein, each with fewer than 160 calories.
• Caffè Nero reports 52% year-on-year growth in iced drink sales.
• Further products from the Myprotein partnership are scheduled for January.

The launch introduces an Iced Vanilla Protein Latte containing 25g of protein and an Iced Vanilla Protein Matcha Latte containing 24g. Both drinks contain fewer than 160 calories, offering customers a substantial protein serving in a format traditionally associated with coffee breaks rather than sports nutrition.

The partnership marks the first time Caffè Nero has introduced Myprotein products throughout its UK estate. The drinks will be prepared by the chain's baristas using Myprotein's signature protein powder, alongside ingredients already familiar to Caffè Nero customers.

The Iced Vanilla Protein Latte combines Caffè Nero's Classico coffee blend with skimmed milk, sugar-free vanilla flavoring and added protein. Its matcha counterpart uses ceremonial-grade matcha, skimmed milk, sugar-free vanilla and protein powder.

The companies are introducing the drinks as demand for protein-enriched foods and beverages continues to extend beyond traditional sports nutrition products. Coffee provides an opportunity to reach consumers who may not ordinarily purchase protein shakes but already incorporate coffee into their daily routines.

For Caffè Nero, the launch also builds on the growing contribution of cold beverages to its business.

Iced drinks now account for 14.7% of the company's total drinks sales, compared with 8.1% five years ago. Sales of iced beverages increased by 52% during its most recent financial year compared with the preceding year, according to figures supplied by the coffee chain.

The figures help explain the decision to introduce both products as iced drinks, with the matcha option also addressing consumer interest in alternatives to traditional coffee.

Neil Mistry, CEO of THG Nutrition, which owns Myprotein, said the collaboration reflected changing consumer habits and the increasing use of protein ingredients in everyday foods and beverages.

"Protein has moved from the gym bag into everyday life, and coffee is the natural next step. Protein lattes have already taken off in the US, and we know the appetite is here too: our customers already add protein to their coffee at home. Now, with Caffè Nero, they can order it in a latte or matcha on the high street, across more than 600 stores."

The agreement is the latest in a series of partnerships through which Myprotein has expanded its presence in mainstream UK retail and foodservice.

Recent launches include a collaboration with Krispy Kreme to develop a whey protein milkshake inspired by the doughnut company's Original Glazed product, distributed through Boots.

Myprotein has also worked with Mars Wrigley to introduce Impact Whey Protein products carrying the Snickers, Mars and Bounty confectionery brands. Those agreements have enabled the company to reach customers through established retail brands and familiar flavors rather than relying exclusively on its traditional sports nutrition range.

The Caffè Nero partnership adds a different distribution channel, with freshly prepared drinks available directly from coffee shops rather than packaged products purchased for consumption at home.
Mistry said the company intended to develop the relationship further.

"Nero is one of the UK’s best-loved coffee brands, and we’re proud to bring Myprotein to a routine millions of people already enjoy. It’s part of a growing number of food-service partnerships for Myprotein, as protein becomes a staple on menus across the UK, and this is the start of a partnership we’re excited to grow."

For Caffè Nero, the collaboration allows the company to introduce higher-protein options without departing significantly from its existing beverage menu. Both drinks use established coffee shop ingredients, with protein powder incorporated into the preparation process.

Lysa Hardy, CEO of Caffè Nero UK, said the products were developed in response to customer demand for higher-protein beverages.

“The Iced Vanilla Protein Matcha Latte and the Iced Vanilla Protein Latte are delicious, new additions to our menu and respond to growing customer demand for high-protein drinks. They reflect our commitment to innovation and to delivering premium drinks to customers. They combine our speciality, award winning coffee and our ceremonial grade Matcha with the expertise of MyProtein. I think it is a great combination and I can’t wait to for customers to try them!"

The two drinks are the first products introduced under the agreement, and the companies have confirmed that additional recipes will be announced in January. Details of those products, including their flavors, protein content and nutritional profiles, have not yet been disclosed.

The companies have also not announced pricing for the initial range.

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