From latte art to sustainability: why oat milk is the office favourite

The UK has experienced a significant increase in adopting plant-based diets and milk alternatives in recent years. Between 2014 and 2019, the number of UK vegans quadrupled, with an estimated 2.5 million in 2024, accounting for 4.7% of the adult population.

As of 2019, the UK’s plant milk market was valued at £253 million, representing approximately 15% of the total European market. This market is projected to more than double by 2025, reaching £557 million, with an estimated compound annual growth rate of 13.8% between 2020 and 2025. ​Here at FreshGround, we’ve seen sales of oat milk rise by over 50% in just the last two years.

According to data from Kantar, plant-based milk now accounts for 10% of all milk sales in the UK, and oat milk is the fastest-growing choice. Its creamy texture, neutral taste, and versatility have made it the preferred option for coffee drinkers.

A 2023 report from Mintel highlighted that 23% of Brits now opt for plant-based milk, with oat milk overtaking almond and soy milk as the top choice. Younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are leading the way by choosing oat milk for its environmental benefits and taste. This shift is reflected in office coffee culture, where employees increasingly expect options that match their high-street coffee shop favourites.

The perfect match for office coffee machines

One of oat milk’s most significant advantages is its barista-friendly quality. Unlike other plant-based alternatives, oat milk froths exceptionally well, making it ideal for latte art, cappuccinos, and flat whites. Its creamy texture closely mimics dairy milk, ensuring that coffee tastes smooth and rich – exactly how your team wants it.

Discover More: Fresh oat milk vs powdered oat milk

At FreshGround, our bean to cup coffee machines are designed to deliver great tasting coffee, and oat milk complements the experience perfectly. Plus, modern coffee machines offer dual milk functionality, meaning you can offer your team a choice of milk when making your favourite coffee.

For even greater versatility, you can even get machines that have multiple hoppers, meaning you can add up to four different types of coffee beans and offer your decaf lovers an option.

Why sustainability matters

Sustainability is one of the key driving forces behind the popularity of oat milk. As businesses strive to reduce their environmental impact, offering plant-based alternatives in the office is a small but meaningful way to show your commitment to greener practices and meet your sustainability goals.

Compared to dairy milk, oat milk has a much lower environmental footprint. According to a report from Oxford University, producing oat milk generates a staggering 80% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than dairy. It also uses significantly less water and land, making it a more sustainable option overall.

For eco-conscious employees, having oat milk available in the office shows that your business values sustainability and is taking steps to make a positive impact.

Inclusivity and employee well-being

In today’s workplace, inclusivity is key to creating a supportive environment. With dietary preferences and allergies more common than ever, offering oat milk alongside traditional dairy ensures that everyone can enjoy their coffee, no matter their preferences.

Oat milk is naturally free from lactose, nuts, and soy, making it a good option for people with allergies or intolerances. It’s also suitable for vegans and those following plant-based diets. By providing oat milk as part of your office coffee setup, you can ensure your coffee offering is as inclusive and diverse as your team.

Our range of coffee blends and beans works beautifully with oat milk, ensuring every cup is smooth, delicious, and tailored to individual preferences.

Office coffee culture: catering to changing expectations

Office coffee culture has evolved significantly in recent years. Employees no longer settle for instant coffee made with a kettle or outdated vending machines. They want high-quality bean to cup coffee experiences that rival their local coffee shops. As oat milk becomes a staple on high streets across the UK, your team will increasingly expect the same options in the workplace.

Investing in a premium coffee setup with oat milk options doesn’t just enhance the coffee experience, but it also boosts morale and demonstrates that you value your team’s well-being. According to a survey by YouGov, 50% of UK employees believe that small workplace perks, like quality coffee, positively impact their job satisfaction proving that a barista-style coffee experience is essential for your workplace culture.

Providing a bean to cup coffee machine with oat milk shows that you care about the little details that make a big difference. It’s a simple yet effective way to create a happier, more motivated team.

Oat milk: the best choice for your workplace?

From its barista-friendly qualities to its sustainability credentials, oat milk is the ideal addition to any office coffee setup. Offering oat milk alongside dairy options shows your commitment to inclusivity, employee wellbeing, and environmental responsibility – all while delivering a premium coffee experience your team will love.

We’re here to help you create the perfect coffee experience for your office. Our range of bean to cup coffee machines, undercounter water taps, and coffee blends and consumables ensures your team has everything they need to stay refreshed and energised throughout the day.

Ready to bring oat milk and barista-quality coffee to your workplace? Get in touch with our expert team today.