Coffee shortages increase the cost of even the cheapest cup

The global cost of living crisis has pushed coffee drinkers to get their hands on cheaper brews. But a shortage of robusta beans is making it increasingly difficult to find a budget-friendly cup.

While many coffee lovers prefer the high-quality arabica beans sold in cafes, robusta is normally more affordable because the tree is harder and requires less care, making it easier to produce in large quantities. The variety is often used in instant coffee, espresso and ground blends sold in supermarkets, which has experienced a comeback as cash-strapped consumers seek alternatives.