Who really runs on caffeine?
Second Pressat Coffee Survey
Journalists and media professionals have once again emerged as the most caffeinated workers, according to the latest workplace coffee survey conducted by Pressat in the UK. Based on responses from 20 000 full-time and self-employed workers across a wide range of professions, the survey found that those in the media consume an average of 3.6 cups of coffee per day - more than any other sector.Close behind are healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, who average 3.5 cups daily.
The survey highlights a strong correlation between high-pressure jobs and elevated caffeine intake, with respondents citing demanding schedules, long hours, and the need for constant alertness as key reasons for their heavy coffee consumption.
Other high-consumption professions include police officers, drivers, company executives and IT support staff, all averaging more than two cups per day. Meanwhile, the lowest coffee intake was recorded among electricians, marketers, advertising professionals, plumbers, and telesales workers, who generally consumed just over one cup per day.
The survey also revealed that around 20% of participants said they felt a noticeable difference in their mood or performance when they skipped their usual caffeine fix, suggesting a strong psychological and physical reliance on coffee in certain work environments.
Costly cup
In terms of spending, the results painted a slightly different picture. While journalists led in consumption, they did not top the list of biggest spenders. That title went to marketers, who spend an average of more than N$315 (£13.27) per week on coffee, followed by advertising professionals and electricians. Journalists averaged around N$300 (£12.66) - still high, but below several other occupations.
Pressat suggests this may be due to access to office coffee or shared brewing habits in newsrooms.
The study also identified a growing trend towards plant-based milk alternatives. Police officers, executives, and plumbers were found to be the most likely to opt for non-dairy options such as oat, almond or soy milk, with more than 20% of respondents in these groups choosing plant-based alternatives over cow’s milk.
Teachers and retail staff also showed significant adoption of these alternatives, reflecting a broader shift in dietary preferences across the workforce.
While caffeine habits vary widely, the survey suggests most workers remain within safe consumption levels. Health authorities recommend limiting intake to no more than 400mg of caffeine per day, which is equivalent of four to five cups of coffee, meaning that even the highest-consuming professions typically remain within health guidelines.
Now in its second year, the Pressat workplace coffee survey offers a unique glimpse into caffeine habits, showing that for many workers, coffee remains more than a beverage.