1938 CE
Nestle launches a soluble (or instant) coffee product called Nescafe

Nescafe was first launched in Switzerland in 1938, and then to the United States and the United Kingdom a year later. By 1940, it was available for sale in 30 countries worldwide. During World War II, the bulk of nescafe's production was distributed to US troops. The main advantages of the soluble drink is that it is quicker to prepare and has a longer shelf life than fresh coffee.

Source: Celebrating 75 years of the Nestle brand that invented instant coffee (2013). Nestle.com.