Caffè Nero has partnered with Myprotein to launch two high-protein iced drinks across its UK estate.

The partnership will see the Iced Vanilla Protein Matcha Latte and Iced Vanilla Protein Latte introduced at more than 600 Caffè Nero stores nationwide.

Both drinks contain fewer than 160 calories, with the matcha latte providing 24g of protein and the coffee-based latte offering 25g.

The drinks combine Caffè Nero’s coffee or ceremonial-grade matcha with skimmed milk, sugar-free vanilla and Myprotein’s protein powder.

Iced drinks now account for 14.7 per cent of the coffee chain’s total drinks sales, up from 8.1 per cent five years ago, while sales in the category surged 52 per cent in its last financial year.

THG Nutrition chief executive Neil Mistry said: “Protein has moved from the gym bag into everyday life, and coffee is the natural next step.

“Protein lattes have already taken off in the US, and we know the appetite is here too: our customers already add protein to their coffee at home.”

Caffè Nero UK chief executive Lysa Hardy said the launch responded to growing customer demand for high-protein drinks and reflected the retailer’s focus on menu innovation.

The collaboration also marks a further step in Myprotein’s expansion into physical retail and foodservice.

The THG-owned brand recently partnered with Krispy Kreme to launch an Original Glazed-inspired whey protein milkshake at Boots, alongside introducing Snickers, Mars and Bounty-flavoured protein products through its licensing agreement with Mars Wrigley.

The two drinks are the first products launched under the Caffè Nero partnership, with further recipes planned for January.

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