A new study reveals Gen Z’s growing love for tea, with 42% choosing a comforting brew over alcohol to ease stress. The findings come as Guide Dogs launches its ‘Make Every Cuppa Count’ campaign
Research has revealed that the majority of Gen Z prefer a cup of tea over an alcoholic beverage when they’re feeling stressed. The survey of 2,000 adults born post-1997 found that 42% would opt for a brew compared to 23% who would reach for alcohol when under pressure.
The study also discovered that tea is the preferred morning drink for young people, even beating coffee. The traditional English breakfast tea was the top choice, followed by chai and green tea. Aside from nights out, a whopping 81% said that having a cuppa was a fantastic way to catch up with friends, family and colleagues.
The research showed that the younger generation are choosing more wholesome activities, such as hosting a tea party with friends over a boozy brunch (33% vs 28%).
The study revealed that nearly one in three have attended a tea party in the past year with a quarter saying it was more fun than a night out on the town.
This research coincides with the launch of Guide Dogs ‘Make Every Cuppa Count campaign, which encourages the nation to host a tea party, coffee morning or bake sale to raise crucial funds to support those with sight loss.
Sophie Crompton, a fundraising manager for Guide Dogs, commented: “Whether it’s catching up over a cuppa, making plans or reminiscing on old times, tea really is the go-to drink.”
“Whether young or old, the Guide Dogs Make Every Cuppa Count campaign gives people the excuse to get together and raise money for a great cause – all while having the added benefit of getting together for a good old chin-wag,” she said.
Sophie highlighted that every day in the UK, 250 people begin to lose their sight, equating to one individual every six minutes. She stressed that charities are now more dependent than ever on public donations.
Those who have attended a tea party described it as sociable and enjoyable, with a significant majority (76%) agreeing it was a simple yet ‘great’ method of generating charity funds.
Hollywood sensation Zendaya (15%), British icon David Attenborough (14%) and pop star Sabrina Carpenter (12%) topped the list of celebrities Gen Z would love to invite to their ideal tea party.
“Tea and tea parties are a fantastic way to check in on friends and family and meet new people,” Sophie added.
“Our research shows that Gen Zers really want to connect with their loved ones and colleagues more than they do currently.”
“It’s not just for Gen Zers, though,” she adds, “by signing up for a Make Every Cuppa Count fundraising pack from our website, anyone can host their own tea party, coffee morning or bake sale with friends, family and colleagues to raise money for a fantastic cause.”