Danone’s Alpro brand has entered the ready-to-drink (RTD) matcha category with the launch of a new soya-coconut-based matcha drink.

Initially launching in Sainsbury’s stores across the UK, the drink will roll out to further retailers by June 2026.

Alpro Matcha is made with green tea matcha, combined with a soya and coconut base claimed to provide a creamy texture and tropical taste. Available in a 1-litre carton format, the matcha drink can be poured cold over ice, warmed or foamed.

It is fortified with five essential nutrients including calcium, iodine and vitamins B9, D2 and B2. According to Danone, the drink delivers on both taste and nutrition, and is designed for afternoon occasions when 80% of matcha consumption occurs, according to research by Monin.

Matcha’s presence in tea and RTD products has more than doubled from 5% in 2023 to 12% in the first ten months of 2025, Monin’s data shows. It also found that consumer interest is particularly strong among younger demographics, with 72% of green tea drinkers under 35 now enjoying hot matcha drinks at home or work.

Tom Kerr, head of category management and commercial planning for plant-based at Danone UK and Ireland, said: “Matcha is growing at pace because it fits perfectly with today’s consumer habits and provides an on-trend alternative to traditional coffee, with a lower caffeine profile”.

He added: “Barista is one of the most dynamic areas for the category…particularly among Gen Z and Millennials who are driving demand for simple, quality, ready-to-pour formats at home. This launch underscores our confidence in its future – not just for matcha and barista, but for the plant-based sector across the board.”

Alpro claims to be the first to bring a soya-coconut matcha RTD to the grocery channel. The launch follows a series of new innovations from the brand in the UK, with the launch of its Alpro Kids range, limited-edition Cinnamon Roll Barista drink, and a multi-million-pound investment by Danone North Europe to source its popular oat drink from 100% British oats.

Matcha, which originates in East Asia, has soared in popularity in the West over the past year, appealing particularly to health-conscious consumers. In the plant-based category, popular brands including Oatly and Sproud offered their takes on the trend in 2025.

The range is now available in Sainsbury’s, at a RSP of £2.75 per 1-litre carton.