ROR Coffee Solutions Embarks on First Phase of Sustainability Drive with the Introduction of Multiple Green Initiatives

Dubai, 26 January 2024 (QW) – ROR Coffee Solutions (Rate of Rise), the Emirati-owned pioneer in delivering exceptional specialty coffee experiences, announces it has embarked on the first phase of its sustainable drive, a program whereby the company plans to reduce its carbon emissions by 20% by the year of 2025. A one-stop-shop for all coffee requirements across the GCC, ROR Coffee Solutions has introduced multiple sustainable practices across various avenues of the business, from its fleet of delivery cars down to its packaging, revealed this week at World Coffee Dubai 2024.

With its unwavering commitment to sustainability, the commencement of its sustainability drive has seen the prominent coffee business partner with Forthing Friday EV to completely transition its entire delivery fleet to electric vehicles. In addition to this, the company has also switched to an electric roaster, boasting a variety of advantages including energy efficiency and zero emissions, and introduced fully compostable coffee bags, capsules and cups across its product portfolio. Furthering ethical practices, the company has committed to fair trade agreements with coffee farms in various regions, including Kenya, Brazil, Costa Rica, Yemen, and Colombia. These agreements reflect ROR Coffee Solutions’ commitment to ensuring fair compensation for coffee farmers, promoting economic sustainability, and building positive relationships within the coffee supply chain. By putting ethics at the forefront, ROR Coffee Solutions not only delivers exceptional coffee experiences but also contributes to creating a more fair and responsible coffee industry.

“The journey towards sustainability is more than a mere responsibility; it’s a dedicated pledge to influence the future of the coffee industry. At ROR Coffee Solutions, we are steadfast in establishing meaningful connections, nurturing sustainable practices, and providing exceptional coffee experiences—all while upholding a commitment to ethical standards,” expresses Aaron Marshall, General Manager at ROR Coffee Solutions. “Our vision aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s Net Zero Strategy 2050, reflecting our dedication to contributing to the nation’s ambitious goals in creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. As a locally owned business in the UAE, ROR Coffee Solutions is deeply rooted in the vision of fostering sustainability within our local community and actively participating in the broader national efforts towards a greener and more sustainable future,” he adds.

In parallel to the recent announcement, ROR Coffee Solutions unveiled new capsules and office solutions at World Coffee Dubai 2024 this week, marking a significant step towards providing comprehensive and sustainable coffee solutions. Additionally, the company launched new coffees exclusive to ROR across the GCC, hosted daily workshops, cupping sessions, and educational talks. Visitors experienced a full day of coffee tasting at the brew bar, where the latest innovations and flavors were showcased.

In an industry where service excellence is paramount, ROR Coffee Solutions distinguishes itself through a commitment to unparalleled after-sales support for its partners. The company believes in fostering lasting relationships by providing ongoing assistance and ensuring partner satisfaction throughout their journey. Additionally, ROR Coffee Solutions is dedicated to the continuous training of its partners and team members, empowering them with the expertise needed to create memorable coffee experiences.

Good News for Coffee Lovers: Drinking More Coffee May Lower Risk of Metabolic Syndrome in Young Adults

Dubai,January 23, 2024 (QW) : If you love your daily cup of coffee, here’s some good news for you! A recent study conducted in Taiwan, focusing on young adults, has found that moderate or greater daily coffee consumption is linked to a lower incidence of metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of health issues like high blood pressure and high blood sugar that often occur together. While previous studies showed that moderate coffee intake is associated with a lower risk of specific health problems, this study aimed to understand if it also plays a role in preventing metabolic syndrome.

The research followed 2,890 military personnel, aged 18-39 years, who were initially free of metabolic syndrome. They were tracked from 2014 to the end of 2020. The participants were divided into two groups: those who consumed at least three cups or 600 mL of coffee daily (considered moderate or more) and those who didn’t.

Here’s the interesting part – during the 6-year follow-up, 673 cases of metabolic syndrome were identified. Among those who drank three or more cups of coffee daily, there was a significantly lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome compared to those who consumed less coffee or none at all [hazard ratio (HR): 0.69 (95% confidence interval: 0.48, 0.99)].

This study suggests that sticking to the recommended moderate or greater daily coffee consumption, as per guidelines, might not just be good for a caffeine boost but could also have health advantages. For young adults, it appears that enjoying your daily coffee could be a simple and tasty way to help prevent the development of metabolic syndrome. So, go ahead and savor that cup of joe!

 

Surprising Discovery: Drinking More Coffee Might Keep Your Skin Young!

Dubai,January 26, 2024 (QW): Exciting news for coffee lovers! A recent study dug into the connection between what we drink and how our faces age. Researchers were curious about coffee, alcohol, tea, and sugary drinks, and whether they affect how our skin ages.

Most studies in the past just watched people and noticed that those who drank certain things seemed to age differently. But this time, scientists used a cool method called Mendelian randomization. They looked at tiny changes in our genes related to coffee, alcohol, and tea, and saw how they might be linked to how our skin ages.

Guess what they found? If you’re a coffee fan, it might be helping keep your skin looking young! People with a gene that made them more likely to drink coffee had a lower chance of having aging skin. This was a big surprise!

The researchers were extra careful. They used different methods to double-check their results and even looked at another group of people who love coffee to be sure. And guess what? The results stayed the same – more coffee was linked to less aging skin.

This doesn’t mean you should start drinking tons of coffee, but it’s cool to know that your daily cup might be doing more than just waking you up. It could be a secret helper in keeping your skin looking fresh and young!

Mokha 1450 Unveils Groundbreaking Crystal-Clear Coffee and Innovative DSV1 Mocktail

Mokha 1450, the Dubai based luxury specialty coffee brand known for its innovations and unique coffee experiences, used the  World of Coffee Dubai 2024, which concluded yesterday, to premier its latest creation- a crystal clear coffee. This new invention was created by the brand’s Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certified Trainer, Joseph Gitonga, to showcase a collaboration with Victoria Arduino, for the roll out of the new Black Eagle Maverick Coffee machine with Pure Brew Technology.

According to Mr. Gitonga, “the new Maverick coffee machine represents a World’s first, as it is the first espresso machine that has an innovative group head that can be used to brew coffee, tea, or any infusions one can imagine, and as such we were inspired to curate a world’s first coffee experience that would entice the coffee industry’s best and brightest minds on the largest platform possible, The World of Coffee Dubai 2024”.

The crystal-clear coffee was created through an exceptionally expensive and labor-intensive distillation process. The company first experimented with normal distillation, which took several hours to produce a few milliliters, with flavors that were unique but were quite delicate and almost imperceptible, because most of the flavonoids were destroyed due to the heat. However, after much thought and experimentation, the company found that cold distillation proved to be the key to success.

 

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While still quite expensive and time consuming, cold distillation resulted in a much better product, though still only 10% of the original coffee used. However, the flavors were much stronger and produced a unique pairing of volatile compounds that gave it a very unique and intriguing flavor profile, according to a chemical engineer consulted during the process.

The company had the product tested by the Dubai Municipality out of mild concerns that the caffeine content could be quite high, but the results showed that there were only trace amounts of caffeine, which did not surprise the aforementioned chemical engineer, who further explained that, as caffeine is not a volatile compound, most of the caffeine would be lost during the distillation process.

The creation of the crystal-clear coffee was only the first step in the creative process for the Mokha 1450 team, as the purpose was that of showcasing the new Black Eagle Maverick, by using the machine to create a unique mocktail with the coffee, which Mokha 1450 has designated – “DSV1 Coffee” as the base of the mocktail.

As the flavors of the DSV1 coffee was quite delicate, paring the coffee with other ingredients would be difficult, furthermore stirring or shaking the DSV1 coffee with ice diminished much of its flavor.

The solution the company found was that of using the pure brew technology on the maverick to brew a very bespoke and highly sought after silver needle white tea that would be chilled quickly and paired with the DSV1 coffee with other ingredients in proportions that would allow the exceptionally distinct and unique flavor notes of the DSV1 coffee to shine through.

The ensuing Mocktail was premiered the second day of World of Coffee at the Victoria Arduino stand, on 22 January 2024, with a master class presented by Jospeh Gitonga and Mokha 1450’s CEO Garfield Kerr. Mr. Kerr engaged SCA certified coffee experts watching the presentation with the raw form of the DSV 1 coffee and asked that they try to identify the aroma notes and guess what was inside while Mr. Gitonga prepared the mocktail.

While most identified the notes correctly, – vanilla, fruitiness, sweetness, and dry leather with dominant pipe tobacco notes, they were all confused by the coffee notes as the liquid was crystal clear. Mr. Kerr explained that it was important that the final product be crystal clear, as it had to create some cognitive dissonance in the recipient of the beverage who would be tasting a distinct coffee beverage, but one that did not in anyway look like it could be coffee, let a lone a complex coffee beverage with numerous tasting notes.

Asked for comment, Mr. Kerr noted that he was first “intrigued by Victoria Arduino’s Black Eagle Maverick with Pure Brew technology during a presentation in Milan last year, as the company’s CEO Marco Feliziani and his team highlighted that they employed an innovative approached to the design of coffee machines by projecting what the future of coffee would look like and designing for that.”

As cold beverages were predicted at the time to be a main driver of the coffee industry, the company designed a unique and first of its kind espresso machine that could not only create exceptional espresso-based beverages, but also brew coffee, tea, and infusions that all could be used to create unique mocktails. At Mokha 1450, we have a coffee lounge that specializes in creating bespoke coffee mocktails so the fit with Victoria Arduino is quite a natural one.”

As for what’s next for the DSV-1 mocktail, the company will offer tastings for a few of its loyal clients and VIP guests, while continuing to experiment with other variations of the mocktail as well as ways to produce more of the coffee in a cost-effective manner.

World of Coffee Dubai 2024 Exhibition Successfully Concludes with the Reception of 13,000 Visitors

Dubai, January 23, 2024 (QW): The third edition of the “World of Coffee Dubai 2024” exhibition concluded this evening in the city of Dubai with unprecedented public enthusiasm compared to previous editions. Organized by the International Coffee Association in the UAE and managed by “DXB Life,” the event took place over three days at the Dubai World Trade Center, attracting more than 13,000 specialized visitors, a 30% increase from the previous year.

At the event’s closure, winners were announced for the “National Latte Art Championship” and the “National Barista Championship of the UAE.” These competitions featured top professionals in coffee preparation in the UAE, aiming to secure the title and qualify for the annual “World Barista Championship.”

Covering an area of 15,000 square meters, the third edition of the World of Coffee Dubai 2024 brought together farmers, traders, manufacturers, distributors, small and medium-sized companies, café owners, roasters, hotels, coffee enthusiasts, and baristas from 51 countries. The exhibition witnessed the participation of thousands of visitors and more than 1,650 specialized companies and brands in the local, regional, and global coffee industry. The fourth edition of the “World of Coffee – Dubai” exhibition is scheduled for February 10 to 12 next year.

The winners were announced, including Micaela Ranzol from Tepic Coffee securing the first position, Kamal Rasyad from Archers Coffee in the second position, and Nooran Al Banae from Coffee Architects claiming the third position. The National Latte Art Championship also saw Mondrik Albas from Gold Box Roastery in the first position, Angelo Lagata in the second position, and Gatvekly Raymond Ambuan from DRVN By Porsche in the third position.

The closing day featured three lectures, with topics including a presentation by Damian and Merjin from “Abrau” in the first lecture, an introduction to the new Specialty Coffee Association Skills Diploma by Ben Helt, the Accredited Training Program Manager at the Specialty Coffee Association in the second lecture, and Andreas Zinder addressing “Economics of Coffee Extraction Factories: Investment Returns for Sustainability” in the third lecture.

Khaled Al-Hammadi, the First Deputy CEO of “DXB Life,” commented, “This year’s edition of the World of Coffee exhibition in Dubai garnered widespread interest from coffee industry enthusiasts. It witnessed a remarkable presence of global companies and brands, providing an international platform to showcase coffee products and brewing equipment. We look forward to organizing the fourth edition in February next year, building on the notable success achieved in this year’s edition. Sustainability was a key focus of the exhibition, and the event provided space to promote coffee culture among consumers through educational platforms on coffee types and preparation methods.”

Mohammed bin Rashid visits World of Coffee Dubai 2024 exhibition

Dubai, 22 January 2024 (QW): His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today visited the third edition of the World of Coffee 2024 exhibition being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 23 January.

During the visit, His Highness said that Dubai continues to consolidate its status as a key player in shaping the future of global trade by providing world-class infrastructure and services for bridging markets across the world. “Our city’s emergence as the heart of global trade in major commodities demonstrates our constant commitment to excellence and innovation.

As we progress in our journey to achieve the Dubai Economic Agenda D33’s goals to raise foreign trade to AED25.6 trillion and expand the emirate’s global reach to 400 additional cities over the next decade, we are not only creating greater economic prosperity but also helping forge new pathways for a more interconnected global trading landscape.

Dubai hosts numerous events that bring together various global industries to generate new opportunities, innovations and solutions to accelerate the sustainable growth of international trade,” His Highness added.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed was briefed about the World of Coffee 2024 exhibition by His Excellency Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority.

During his tour of the exhibition, which features 1,650 local and international exhibitors, His Highness was also briefed about the coffee industry’s
unique offerings showcased at the event and sustainable practices in the sector’s supply chain.

The global event, organised by DXB Live, the integrated event management and organisation services arm of the Dubai World Trade Centre, in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association, features a series of informative lectures presented by seasoned professionals.

The World of Coffee Dubai 2024 serves as a pivotal event in the global coffee industry. With over 1,650 companies and brands in attendance, the expo offers an ideal platform for showcasing a wide array of coffee products and services.

 

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Exhibits range from green and roasted coffee beans to a diverse selection of beverage preparation devices,roasting services providers, flavourings and packaging solutions. Additionally, the event is witnessing the participation of 60 UAE-based companies and brands.

The exhibition is also organising several exciting events, including the UAE National Barista and Latte Art Championship, the Coffee Design Awards, and the Best New Product Awards.

The World of Coffee 2024 aligns with the steady expansion of the coffee industry in the region. Market studies and analyses predict continued growth in the coffee market in the coming years. According to Data Bridge Market Research, the value of the coffee and Espresso drinks market in the MENA region is expected to reach around US$1.33 billion by 2030, increasing from approximately US$1.085 billion in 2022, with an anticipated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.6%.

 

World of Coffee Dubai 2024 Continues to Shine on Its Second Day

Dubai, January 22, 2024 (QW): Amidst a substantial audience, the World of Coffee Dubai 2024 exhibition continues to dazzle with innovative events across various company booths and participating cafes. The exhibition, hosting a multitude of events, activities, and workshops, has captured the attention of coffee enthusiasts, industry professionals, and trade enthusiasts alike.

Competitions in coffee preparation persisted, alongside presentations by participating companies and brands in the “Roasters Village” and “Brew Bar” sections. The “Cupping Room” booth offered an opportunity to explore a diverse range of coffee varieties.

Organized by “DXB Life,” an arm specializing in comprehensive event management services at the Dubai World Trade Centre in collaboration with the “Specialty Coffee Association” (SCA), the World of Coffee event featured lectures by various experts.

Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), expressed admiration for the significant growth of the World of Coffee Dubai exhibition in its current edition compared to previous ones. He emphasized that the Dubai and UAE markets are dynamic, witnessing substantial growth in specialty coffee consumption, marking the highest growth rate globally.

Matia Miato, Head of Export at “Mizer Luigi Spa,” noted that the World of Coffee exhibition provided an opportunity to showcase products to a wide audience of coffee lovers and preparation experts from around the world.


Junior Romero, Content Manager at “Flava Coffee,” affirmed their commitment to participation for expanding access to new markets, strengthening relationships with other coffee companies, and highlighting their dedication to coffee farmers and all stakeholders in the industry by delivering high-quality products.

The “World of Coffee Dubai 2024” hosts over 1,650 international, regional, and local companies and brands, showcasing their products and services related to the industry. This includes green and roasted coffee beans, diverse beverage preparation equipment, roasting services, flavor additives, and packaging. The participant list encompasses 60 companies and brands based in the United Arab Emirates.

The exhibition spans three days and includes various events such as the “UAE National Barista Championship,” the “National Latte Art Championship,” and the competitions for “Coffee Design Awards” and “Best New Product.”

Victoria Arduino and Nuova Simonelli Inaugurate Experience Lab in Dubai Amidst Elite Gathering

Amidst a distinguished gathering of elites, Victoria Arduino and Nuova Simonelli marked a significant occasion as they unveiled their dedicated Experience Lab in the Al Quoz area of Dubai yesterday evening.

The opening ceremony, distinguished in every aspect, drew an elite crowd from the coffee industry in the Emirates and worldwide. The event was led by Federico Ortel, the General Manager of Simonelli Middle East, and Antonio Urella, an expert in the coffee and beverage community, along with coffee enthusiasts, industry experts, and a curated audience who deeply appreciate the art of coffee.

 

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The inauguration of the Experience Lab coincided with the World of Coffe Dubai 2024 Exhibition, which commenced its proceedings yesterday at the Dubai World Trade Center. The exhibition serves as a hub for numerous interactions between coffee enthusiasts, professionals, and key players in the coffee industry from the region and around the globe.

Notably, Victoria Arduino is actively participating in theWorld of Coffe Dubai 2024 with an exceptional pavilion showcasing a variety of products and highlighting cutting-edge technologies in the coffee industry.

This presents a genuine opportunity that should not be overlooked. To delve into all the intricacies, all you need to do is visit the Victoria Arduino booth.

UAE Minister of Economy inaugurates World of Coffee Dubai 2024

Dubai, January 20, 2024 (QW): Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, inaugurated the 3rd edition of World of Coffee Dubai 2024, organised by DXB Live and the Specialty Coffee Association. The exhibition features over 1,650 local, regional, and global brands and companies, marking a 50 percent increase in space. This year’s event has garnered significant global interest, with 51 countries participating in its activities. The exhibition will run until January 23, 2024.

Bin Touq, accompanied by Timur Abdiljalil, Consul General of Kyrgyz Republic in Dubai and the Northern Emirates and Khalid Al Hammadi, Senior Vice President of DXB Live along with Yannis Apostolopoulos, Chief Executive Officer, The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), toured the pavilions featured in the exhibition. He lauded the impressive influx of visitors and the wide participation of brands and exhibitors from across the globe. He commended the event organisation’s efficiency and praised the hard work of the teams involved.

During his visit, Bin Touq also toured the Roosters Village, Cupping Room, and Brew Bar pavilions, thoroughly inspecting the arrangements for the upcoming 2024 UAE National Barista Latte Art Championships. The competitions present participants with the chance to qualify for the esteemed World Barista Championship. In addition, Bin Touq observed the preparations for both the Coffee Design Awards and the Best New Product Awards.

The 2024 edition of World of Coffee focuses on sustainability in the coffee industry, emphasizing the need for responsible practices to ensure a continuous coffee supply. The Expo showcases regional market growth and addresses the increasing demand for specialty coffee. It features lectures and workshops on the sustainable coffee movement, promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices and aiming to preserve biodiversity and improve coffee quality.

On the inaugural day, a diverse array of events and activities were held, among which 2 sessions dedicated to Yemeni Coffee by Fatima Khabeer and Mervat Haider, and another session focused on significant Cold Brew approaches and featured insights from Julia Leach.

Shouq BinRedha, Exhibition Manager of World of Coffee Dubai 2024, said, “The 2024 edition of the Expo is set to build upon the successes of its previous editions. It is introducing fresh privileges and programs, including workshops and lectures, to enhance the overall experience. The event is showcasing various global happenings such as the Coffee Design Awards and Best New Product Awards, aimed at acknowledging innovation and excellence in the coffee industry while fostering collaboration and partnerships among exhibitors, visitors and leading companies. Serving as a vital platform, the event facilitates the unveiling of new products, exchange of expertise and knowledge, and networking with experts and innovators in the coffee industry. This year’s Expo is featuring the Roosters Village, Cupping Room and Brew Bar pavilions, offering diverse experiences for visitors. Additionally, a series of interactive sessions and workshops are focussing on the most effective approaches for resource utilisation and sustainable practices in the coffee industry.”

Khalid Al Mulla, the Chief Executive Officer of the Specialty Coffee Association -UAE Chapter, said, “We are excited about the 3rd edition of World of Coffee 2024 in Dubai, recognising the growing significance of this event as a premier destination for coffee enthusiasts and both local and international companies involved in coffee production. The exhibition provides a unique opportunity to gain insights on diverse cultures and artistic approaches to coffee preparation, stay abreast of the latest industry trends, and engage in discussions on promoting sustainability in the coffee sector. Held in the UAE, World of Coffee plays a pivotal role in strengthening the bonds of cooperation and communication between international brands and their regional partners in the rapidly expanding coffee industry. The remarkable attendance at this event, coupled with the associated activities, underscores the increasing popularity of specialty coffee in both the country and the region. It further emphasises Dubai’s prominent role as a hub for creativity and innovation in the coffee industry.”

Aleeshia Bailey, President, JAMROCK GREEN CORPS, said, “We are thrilled to participate in the World of Coffee Dubai for the first time, acknowledging the global significance of this event which is focused on the coffee industry. The exhibition offers us a unique opportunity to showcase our products both locally and globally, connecting with coffee enthusiasts, professionals, and experts alike. Throughout the Expo, our primary goal is to highlight our commitment to ensuring the excellence of our coffee products through a range of practices. These practices include the use of organic fertilisers, cultivating coffee beans at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 ft., growing coffee beans in volcanic soil, and selecting distinct varieties such as Arabica, Typica, and Geisha. Our coffee varieties have received certification from the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory.”

The World of Coffee 2024 aligns with the steady expansion of the coffee industry in the region. Market studies and analyses predict continued growth in the coffee market in the coming years. According to Data Bridge Market Research, the value of the coffee and Espresso drinks market in the MENA region is expected to reach around US$1.33 billion by 2030, increasing from approximately US$1.085 billion in 2022, with an anticipated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.6 per cent over the specified timeframe.

La Cimbali gold sponsor at UK Barista Championship 2024

Dubai, January 21, 2024 (QW): La Cimbali has announced it will sponsor the Specialty Coffee Association United Kingdom Barista Championship 2024 for the third time in a row.

As official gold sponsor, La Cimbali will provide four M200 GT1 espresso machines for competing baristas to use during the competition.

“We are tirelessly working behind the scenes at La Cimbali to ensure we are ‘competition ready,’ tackling the logistics to guarantee our M200 GT1 machines are set up flawlessly for every heat,” says Louise Felton, Cimbali Group Regional Director, UK and Ireland.

“Our highly efficient support team, who come with a fantastic range of technical and competition experience, will contribute to the smooth running of events from the heats through to the finals. The competitors and the SCA can rest assured they will be in very safe hands with La Cimbali’s top talented UKBC support team.”

Alexx McKendry, SCA UK National Coordinator says the La Cimbali M200 GT1 is a “fantastic machine to have at heart of the competitions”.

“Having La Cimbali on-board for another UK Barista Championship season means our competition standards continue to be industry-leading and our competitors are working on quality equipment that they can depend on,” he says.

The victor of the United Kingdom Barista Championship 2024 will represent the United Kingdom at the World Barista Championship in Busan, South Korea in May 2024.

Second Cup Celebrates Remarkable Growth in Egypt and Significant Regional Expansion

Dubai, January 19, 2024 (QW): The Second Cup Coffee Company Inc. (“Second Cup”), A global leading specialty coffee retailer, is thrilled to announce its extraordinary growth and expansion in Egypt. With a strong commitment to delivering exceptional coffee experiences, The Second Cup has successfully established itself as a beloved brand in the Egyptian coffee market.

Over the past year, Second Cup has experienced unprecedented success in Egypt, with a significant increase in customer demand and an expanding customer base. This remarkable growth can be attributed to Second Cup’s dedication to providing high-quality coffee, innovative menu offerings, and a warm and inviting café atmosphere.

Second Cup’s expansion throughout Egypt has been strategically planned to bring the brand’s exceptional coffee and outstanding service to coffee & tea lovers in various cities and neighborhoods. The company has opened multiple locations in key areas, including Cairo, New Cairo, Giza, and Tanta, with plans for further expansion in the very near future.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the remarkable growth and success we have achieved in Egypt,” said Jim Ragas, CEO of The Second Cup Coffee Company Inc. “Our expansion in this vibrant market is a testament to the strong appeal of our brand, the quality of our coffee, and the dedication of our team led by our Master Franchise (Maximum Stores) CEO Yahya Ghamdan and their COO Hany Said. We are excited to continue serving our valued customers in Egypt and introducing more coffee lovers to The Second Cup experience.”

Second Cup is renowned for its commitment to sourcing the finest arabica coffee beans from around the world and organic teas, ensuring exceptional quality and taste in every cup. With a wide range of premium coffees, teas, specialty beverages, and delectable baked goods, Second Cup offers a diverse menu that caters to the unique preferences of café enthusiasts.

In addition to its exceptional coffee offerings, Second Cup is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. The company actively supports local communities and initiatives, while also prioritizing environmental stewardship through sustainable sourcing practices and eco-friendly packaging.

Second Cup’s growth in Egypt is a testament to the brand’s ability to captivate coffee lovers with its unparalleled coffee expertise, warm ambiance, and commitment to excellence. As the company continues to expand its presence in Egypt, it remains steadfast in its mission to deliver extraordinary coffee café experiences that create lasting memories for its valued customers.

About The Second Cup Coffee Company Inc.
Founded in 1975, The Second Cup Coffee Company Inc. originated in Canada and has cafes in 22 countries and is a leading specialty café chain, offering premium arabica coffee, organic teas specialty beverages, all-natural frozen yogurt, and delicious baked goods. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and exceptional customer service, The Second Cup has become a beloved destination around the world.

A Success Story: A Journey into the World of Coffee with Marko Djuric, Director of Global Business Development at Coffee Desk

Dubai, January 19, 2024 (QW): In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Mr. Marko Djuric, the Global Business Development Director at Coffeedesk GCC. Marko takes us on a journey through his background, passion for coffee, and the remarkable trajectory that led him from Poland to Dubai and across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. As an industry expert, he shares insights into Coffeedesk’s journey, evaluates the current state of the coffee industry in Dubai and the UAE, explores global opportunities, and addresses the challenges that persist in this dynamic sector.

Coffee Journey and Background:

Can you provide us with a brief overview of your background and how you ventured into the realm of coffee? What inspired you to embark on this journey from Poland to Dubai and across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries?

Marko: Absolutely. My journey in the coffee industry began with a passion for exploring diverse cultures and flavors. Originating from Poland, I found myself drawn to the rich and dynamic world of coffee. The move to Dubai and across GCC countries was fueled by the region’s booming coffee culture and the opportunity to contribute to its growth. My background in Global Business Development aligns seamlessly with the dynamic nature of the coffee industry. It’s an exciting venture that allows me to combine my love for coffee, business acumen, and a keen interest in connecting with people from various backgrounds. This journey has been a remarkable exploration of both the art and business of coffee, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.

Coffeedesk Journey:

Reflecting on Coffeedesk’s journey, could you share insights into its inception, notable milestones achieved thus far, and any future plans you have for its development?

Marko: Coffeedesk’s journey has been remarkable, evolving into a premier destination for coffee enthusiasts. Recognized as a master distributor for brands like Urne, Moccamaster, and AeroPress, and exclusive distributor for Fellow, we’ve achieved significant milestones. Future plans include expanding our ecommerce presence and maintaining a focus on sustainability. Exciting times lie ahead for Coffeedesk.

Coffee Industry Market in Dubai and the UAE:

As an expert in the field, how would you evaluate the current state of the coffee industry market in Dubai and the UAE? Are there any trends or unique aspects that stand out in this region?

Marko: In evaluating the coffee industry in Dubai and the UAE, it’s evident that there’s a dynamic market with a growing coffee culture. The demand for specialty coffee is on the rise, and consumers are increasingly looking for unique experiences. Sustainability is a notable trend, with both businesses and consumers showing a keen interest in eco-friendly practices. Overall, the industry here is vibrant and open to innovation.

Global Opportunities in the Coffee Industry:

With the commencement of a new year, what, in your opinion, are the most significant opportunities on a global scale within the coffee industry? Are there emerging trends or untapped markets that you find particularly promising?

Marko: As we step into a new year, the global coffee industry is rife with opportunities. One noteworthy trend is the increasing popularity of sustainable and ethical practices, resonating well with environmentally conscious consumers. Additionally, the rise of specialty and artisanal coffee continues to present exciting prospects. Untapped markets, especially in regions with a growing middle class, offer substantial potential for expansion. Overall, the evolving preferences of consumers and a focus on quality and sustainability shape the industry’s landscape.

Challenges in the Advanced Coffee Industry:

Recognizing the advancements in the coffee industry, what do you perceive as the primary challenges it faces? How can businesses navigate and overcome these challenges to ensure continued growth and sustainability?

Marko: In the face of remarkable progress in the coffee industry, certain challenges persist. One major hurdle is the volatility of coffee prices, influenced by factors like climate change and geopolitical events. Businesses must strategically manage these uncertainties through diversification and sustainable sourcing practices. Additionally, maintaining quality amidst increasing demand poses a challenge. Investing in technology, fostering direct relationships with producers, and embracing innovation are pivotal for businesses to overcome these challenges and ensure long-term growth and sustainability.

Exploiting Opportunities and Facing Challenges:

Delving deeper into strategy, how do you recommend seizing the available opportunities in the coffee industry on various levels? Additionally, what proactive measures can be taken to effectively address and overcome the challenges encountered in this dynamic sector?

Marko: To seize coffee industry opportunities, adapt to consumer trends, embrace technology, and prioritize sustainability. Overcoming challenges involves transparency, data analytics, and strategic collaborations. A proactive approach, marked by adaptability and partnerships, is essential for sustained growth.