Younger customers make different choices than they did ten years ago. They are looking for something new, something beautiful and something with a story. That is why ube, the purple yam from the Philippines, is becoming particularly popular with millennials and Gen Z. What makes ube so attractive to this group, and how can you use it in your business?
1. It looks good
For these generations, a drink is also something to share. A deep purple latte or a cookie with a marbled effect stands out among all the brown coffee. That makes ube a natural choice for anyone looking for something photogenic. Read ube in coffee bars and restaurants for ideas on presentation.
2. Curious about new flavours
Matcha and chai are now familiar territory. Anyone looking to try something different will end up with ube: mild, slightly sweet and a little nutty. It is new, but not too adventurous. That makes it easy to order.
3. Interest in food with a story
Ube comes from the Philippines, where it has been used in desserts for generations. Younger customers appreciate that story. It makes a drink more than just a drink. Read what is ube? to learn more about its origins.
4. Less caffeine, more choice
More and more people are paying attention to how much coffee they drink, especially later in the day. Ube is naturally caffeine-free. An ube latte is therefore a natural alternative to a second or third coffee.
5. Plant-based and without colouring
Ube powder contains no animal ingredients, and with plant-based milk you can make a completely plant-based latte. The colour comes from the ube itself, not from a colouring. For customers who make conscious choices, that matters. Read what is in ube powder?
What does this mean for your business?
- Add one ube drink and make it visible with a photo on the menu.
- Offer it hot and iced. The iced ube latte is often the most popular.
- Think about upsells: ube cold foam on iced coffee or a ube cookie on the side.
- Invite customers to share by displaying your Instagram handle at the bar.
Want to try it?
About 70 businesses already serve UBE.25. Request a free sample pack for hospitality, or try UBE.25 ube powder at home first.
