Question

The graph below shows that average coffee consumption per person in Spain, France, Italy and Germany between 1983 and 2023. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Model Answer

The graph illustrates the coffee drinking habits of 4 European countries from 1983 to 2003. It shows that national differences in coffee consumption were becoming less pronounced across the region.

The most significant feature of the period was the sharp fall in coffee drinking in France; from a high point of 91 litres a year in 1993 to less than 50 litres by the end of the period. Coffee consumption in Italy declined more gradually, and in 2023 it remained the country that drank the most coffee.

The 2 other countries for which we have information saw an increase in the popularity of coffee. Per capita consumption in Spain more than doubled from 19 litres annually to 41 litres in 2023, with an especially steep rise between 2003 and 2013. The increase in Germany was more gradual, albeit from a higher starting point of around 40 litres. After 40 years, this had risen to 76 litres a year, second only to Italy overall.

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