Dropshipping has been one of the most viable eCommerce models of the past 20 years. The market is still rapidly growing, valued at $284.55 billion in 2023. Now pair it with one of the most in-demand products: coffee.
Coffee dropshipping offers a promising opportunity for entrepreneurs. Rather than handling the logistics of product management, you can focus all your efforts on the front end: marketing and sales.
This article will cover the most effective dropshipping product ideas within the coffee niche, compare the top coffee dropshipping suppliers and explain how to start your coffee shop.
Learn more: eCommerce vs dropshipping
The perks of coffee dropshipping
In the U.S., about 12% of coffee consumers purchase their coffee online. Plus, online coffee sales are expected to grow roughly 10% annually until at least 2028. The growth in the coffee industry means that with effective marketing strategies, even new coffee dropshippers can compete with large coffee companies.
By partnering with reliable coffee dropshipping suppliers, you can offer a wide range of coffee products without significant upfront investment or inventory management. The consumable nature of coffee also encourages repeat purchases, facilitating a steady stream of revenue.
14 coffee dropshipping product types
When it comes to starting a dropshipping business, you'll find plenty of dropshipping ideas and dropshipping products that can appeal to a wide range of customers. The best starting point is choosing which types of coffee products you want to dropship and sell online.
01. Whole bean and ground coffee
This is your option to offer high-quality options from different regions, roast levels and coffee bean flavor profiles. Providing a diverse selection caters to a wide range of customer preferences and attracts coffee enthusiasts looking for their perfect blend. Ideas include:
Single-origin beans: Offer coffee aficionados a taste from specific regions known for their unique flavors.
Organic coffee: Cater to health-conscious consumers with coffee that's grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.
Fairtrade certified coffee: Support ethical sourcing by selling coffee that ensures fair payment to coffee producers.
Espresso blends: Provide blends specifically designed for a rich and creamy espresso shot.
Decaffeinated coffee: Include options for those who love the taste of coffee but want to avoid caffeine.
02. Private label dropshipping coffee suppliers
These types of suppliers encourage you to specialize your coffee brand by offering exclusive blends and developing distinctive packaging that sets your coffee business apart.
03. Coffee pods and capsules
Single-serve coffee pods and capsules are popular among busy people seeking convenience. Offering a range of compatible options for various coffee machines appeals to a wide crowd.
Biodegradable pods: Appeal to eco-friendly customers with compostable coffee pods.
Flavored capsules: Offer a variety of tastes, from vanilla to caramel, for those who enjoy flavored coffee.
Reusable pods: Sell reusable pods that can be filled with any ground coffee, reducing waste.
04. Coffee brewing equipment
Equipment like coffee makers and grinders will appeal to enthusiasts looking to upgrade their setup. Include both entry-level and high-end options to cater to different budgets and lifestyles.
French presses: A classic brewing method that's beloved by many for its rich and full-bodied flavor.
Pour-over cones: Perfect for those who appreciate the art of manually brewing a clean and aromatic cup.
Cold brew makers: Cater to the crowd who loves their coffee cold and smooth with dedicated cold brew equipment.
Espresso machines: Offer both entry-level and professional-grade machines for espresso enthusiasts.
05. Coffee accessories
Travel mugs, scales, filters and other accessories will complement your core offerings and increase your average order value (AOV). Focus on practical, high-quality items that enhance the brewing and drinking experience.
Grinders: Sell burr grinders that provide a consistent grind for the perfect brew.
Milk frothers: Allow customers to create their own lattes and cappuccinos at home with easy-to-use frothers.
Travel mugs: Provide busy customers with insulated mugs that keep their coffee hot on the go.
Coffee scales: Precision scales are essential for those serious about their brewing ratios.
06. Specialty coffee products
Single-origin, organic or rare coffee varieties will attract discerning connoisseurs willing to pay a higher price point. Highlight the unique qualities and stories behind these products.
Flavored syrups: Expand your offerings with syrups that add sweetness and flavor to any cup of coffee.
Non-dairy creamers: Include plant-based creamers as an alternative to traditional dairy products.
CBD-infused coffee: Tap into the wellness market with CBD-infused options for a relaxing cup.
07. Coffee-themed merchandise
T-shirts, artwork, gifts and other merchandise appeal to passionate coffee lovers. You get to promote your brand and your customers get to showcase their love for coffee.
T-shirts and apparel: Create or source designs that resonate with the coffee-loving community.
Art prints and posters: Decorate your customers' walls with artwork celebrating their favorite beverage.
08. Subscription boxes
Subscription boxes unlock a recurring revenue stream and encourage customer loyalty. Feature a variety of coffee products, accessories and surprises to keep subscribers engaged.
Monthly coffee box: Keep customers coming back with subscriptions that deliver new flavors each month.
09. Health-focused products
Health-focused options like low-acid, mushroom or adaptogen-infused coffee cater to wellness-minded consumers. Emphasize the potential health benefits and unique properties.
Green coffee bean extracts: Market supplements known for their potential health benefits.
10. Snacks and pairings to go with coffee
Offering complementary snacks like biscotti, chocolate or nuts can encourage additional purchases and create a well-rounded coffee experience. Suggest perfect pairings and bundle deals.
Gourmet biscotti or cookies: Perfect complements to any cup of coffee, these treats are great upsells.
11. Educational materials for caffeine enthusiasts
Educational materials like books, courses or tasting guides can position your brand as a coffee authority. Plus, there are no shipping expenses when the products are digital.
Barista training guides: Help your customers improve their skills with educational content.
12. Customizable coffee beverage products
Personalized blends, syrups or creamers cater to individual tastes. Highlight the creativity and luxury of customizing your coffee.
13. Eco-friendly coffee options
Sustainable, biodegradable or reusable products appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Share the eco-friendly impact of your process.
Sustainable utensils: Bamboo stirrers or recycled-material coasters can attract environmentally conscious buyers.
14. Tech gadgets
Showcase gadgets that make enjoying coffee more convenient, consistent or enjoyable. You’ll stand out from traditional offerings and increase your AOV.
Smart mugs: High-tech mugs that keep coffee at the perfect temperature through smartphone apps are ideal for tech-savvy consumers.
How to dropship coffee
Let’s get you mentally prepared for each step. Here’s how to start dropshipping coffee.
Select your supplier
Create product listings
Market your coffee dropshipping business
Manage orders and your customer service
01. Research and plan your business
Conduct thorough market research to identify your target audience and potential competitors. Select a compelling brand name and stand out from competitors by picking the best coffee products with a creative angle.
02. Set up your online store
Choose a user-friendly website builder like Wix. Select an eCommerce theme, upload high-quality images of your product and write copy that conveys your brand and goals.
03. Integrate your supplier
Partner with reliable coffee dropshipping suppliers that offer high-quality products, fast shipping times, excellent customer service and wholesale pricing. To streamline order processing, integrate your store with your chosen suppliers. With apps on Wix, you can set up your dropshipping business model in minutes.
04. Create product listings
Craft compelling product listings with detailed descriptions and high-quality images to attract potential customers. Use relevant keywords and optimize your listings for search engines to drive organic traffic to your store.
05. Market your coffee dropshipping business
Develop a multi-channel marketing strategy that includes social media, email campaigns and targeted advertising. Collaborate with influencers and run promotions to build brand awareness and attract new customers.
06. Manage orders and your customer service
Provide exceptional customer service by promptly addressing inquiries and concerns. As your business grows, invest in employee training to maintain high dropshipping service standards and support your expanding customer base.
Now that you know the general process, let’s zoom into the supplier decision-making process.
What to look for in a coffee dropshipping supplier
Your supplier will be one of the defining decisions of your coffee business. When seeking a supplier, verify the following qualities.
Fast delivery: Prioritize suppliers with multiple warehouses, fast shipping options (same-day or next-day delivery) and a proven track record.
Exceptional customer service: Look for suppliers with clear product info, helpful resources and responsive customer support via email, phone and live chat.
Memberships and exclusive deals: Take advantage of memberships and exclusive deals like discounted prices, priority shipping, exclusive promotions and incentives for high-volume orders.
Transparency about products: Choose suppliers with product certifications, tons of satisfied customer reviews and detailed information about the sourcing, characteristics and quality of their coffee products.
5 popular dropshipping suppliers for coffee
Here are some popular supplier options, plus important characteristics that will influence your decision.
1. Modalyst
Main advantages:
Offers a wide selection of coffee products from various suppliers
Integrates seamlessly with popular eCommerce platforms
Provides automated order processing and shipping
Downside:
Some suppliers may have longer shipping times
Learn how to build your eCommerce website with the Modalyst integration for Wix.
2. Printify
Main advantages:
Offers private label coffee products for branding
Provides a mockup generator for product visualization
Offers fast shipping options
Downside:
Limited selection of coffee products compared to other suppliers
Learn more about the Printify integration for Wix.
3. Dripshipper
Main advantages:
Specializes in coffee dropshipping
Offers private label and branded coffee options
Provides speedy order fulfillment
Downside:
Requires a monthly membership fee to access certain features
4. Old Chicago Coffee
Main advantages:
Offers competitive pricing and bulk discounts
Stocks a wide variety of coffee blends and flavors
Provides options for custom labels and packaging
Downside:
Minimum order quantities are higher than other suppliers
5. Path Coffee Roasters
Main advantages:
Focuses on sustainably sourced and eco-friendly coffee products
Offers a subscription-based model for recurring deliveries
Provides educational resources for customers
Downside:
Product selection is more limited compared to other suppliers
Other coffee dropshipping suppliers to consider
Limini Coffee
Temecula Coffee Roasters
Aroma Ridge Coffee Roasters
Dropshipping coffee products and suppliers FAQ
Is coffee dropshipping profitable?
Coffee dropshipping can be profitable due to the growing demand for online coffee sales, the relatively high chance of repeat purchases and the low overhead costs of dropshipping. Generate a steady income stream by offering high-quality coffee products, providing excellent customer service and building a loyal customer base.