Category: Coffee Community

In 2025, whole bean coffee continues to be more than just a beverage — it is a ritual of taste, aroma, and craftsmanship. Coffee lovers are seeking out high-quality beans, from iconic Italian blends to single-origin varieties from Latin America. In this curated list, we present the top 10 whole bean coffees of the year, offering detailed flavor profiles, pros and cons, and expert insights to help you discover your ideal cup.

How to Choose the Right Whole Bean Coffee

Before purchasing, consider these key factors:

1. Type and Composition: 100% Arabica offers smoothness and complexity, while blends with Robusta bring intensity and body.

2. Roast Level: Medium roasts highlight fruity and floral notes; dark roasts emphasize caramel and chocolate.

3. Grinding and Brewing Method: Turkish coffee requires a fine grind, while espresso demands a uniform and precise grind.

4. Packaging: Airtight packaging with a valve preserves freshness and aroma.

5. Sustainability and Origin: Look for ethical certifications like Fair Trade or Rainforest Alliance.

6. Flavor Preferences: Choose based on your taste — from bright and citrusy to bold and chocolatey.

The Top 10 Whole Bean Coffees of 2025

1. Lavazza Qualità Oro – Italy

 100% Arabica from Latin America
A floral and fruity aroma with a smooth, velvety body. Ideal for espresso and filter coffee.
Pros: Balanced flavor, consistent quality
Cons: Pricey, freshness fades after opening

2. Illy Monoarabica Nicaragua

Single-origin Arabica
Subtle notes of chocolate and fruit, mild acidity, and a clean aftertaste.
Pros: Pure taste, premium packaging
Cons: Expensive, sensitive to brewing conditions

3. Jockey “Classic” – Russia

Blend of Arabica and Robusta
Strong, rich flavor with notable bitterness, perfect for fans of traditional coffee.
Pros: Affordable, versatile brewing
Cons: Quality may vary between batches

4. DeLonghi Signature Espresso

 Specially designed for espresso machines
Deep flavor with nutty and chocolate tones, stable crema.
Pros: Well-balanced, great machine compatibility
Cons: Milder than some expect, relatively high price

5. Dallmayr Crema d’Oro – Germany

100% Arabica
Golden roast, notes of caramel and chocolate, with a soft and creamy texture.
Pros: Neutral taste, ideal for beginners
Cons: May lack intensity for seasoned drinkers

6. Segafredo Espresso Casa – Italy

Arabica and Robusta blend
Classic Italian-style espresso with bold flavor and long-lasting crema.
Pros: Strong taste, reliable for espresso lovers
Cons: Little fruitiness, can be harsh

7. Must Puro Arabica – Latin America

100% Arabica
Citrus, berry, and chocolate notes in a light, refreshing cup.
Pros: Smooth with no bitterness, great aroma
Cons: Flavor may be too simple, limited availability

8. Brazil Cerrado

Single-origin from Cerrado region
Nutty, chocolatey, and slightly fruity with medium strength.
Pros: Natural flavor, suitable for various brews
Cons: May not appeal to acidity lovers

9. Blend 8

Arabica and Robusta blend
Balanced mix with chocolate and spice tones, rich crema.
Pros: Easy to brew, pleasant aftertaste
Cons: Quality may vary, lesser-known brand

10. Monarch Brazilian Selection

 100% Arabica from top Brazilian farms
Nutty, caramel, and chocolate notes, with mild acidity and smooth balance.
Pros: Excellent in milk-based drinks, consistent quality
Cons: Expensive, limited availability

Final Thoughts

🔹 For classic taste lovers: Lavazza and Illy are elegant, reliable choices
🔹 For everyday use: Jockey and Dallmayr offer quality with value
🔹 For bold espresso fans: Segafredo and DeLonghi deliver strength
🔹 For softer, nuanced profiles: Monarch and Cerrado stand out

Choosing the right beans is the first step in your daily coffee journey — and any of these ten could become your next favorite.

From June 26 to 28, Italian espresso machine pioneer Victoria Arduino will take center stage at World of Coffee Geneva 2025, Europe’s premier specialty coffee trade show. The brand invites coffee professionals and enthusiasts to Stand #1739 for a first look at exclusive new products, immersive experiences, and appearances by world-renowned coffee champions.

Innovation and Sustainability in Focus

Victoria Arduino, celebrated for its high-performance equipment and iconic Italian design, is set to reveal two major innovations tailored for the specialty coffee sector. These cutting-edge solutions aim to elevate both extraction quality and the customer experience, with sustainability and aesthetics at their core.

A key highlight will be the debut of the Eagle One Special Edition, a unique espresso machine featuring sustainable fabric elements and a reimagined design. At the Eagle One station, visitors will experience not only exceptional espresso but also the brand’s PureBrew Coffee innovation. This is enabled by the integrated PureBrew+ single brewer and specialty beans sourced from top-tier international roasters.

Meet the Champions

The Victoria Arduino booth will also be a meeting point for global coffee talent. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Mikael Jasin, the 2024 World Barista Champion, and Michael Portanniers, the 2025 World Coffee Roasting Champion. In addition, partner roasters will be on hand to brew and share their finest selections throughout the event.

The Listening Booth: A Quiet Revolution in Coffee Culture

Breaking away from the typical exhibition hustle, Victoria Arduino introduces The Listening Booth, a calm and intimate sensory space designed in collaboration with Coffee Foundation — an organisation that supports mental well-being through the culture of coffee and community.

Hosted every afternoon at Stand #1739, this experience invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with coffee through mindful moments. Enjoy espresso and cold brew cocktails in a tranquil setting enhanced by curated ambient music and a live vinyl DJ set. It’s an invitation to embrace coffee with presence and intentionality.

Also on Display at Stand #1739

• Eagle Tempo – A high-productivity espresso machine that blends performance with timeless design.

• E1 Prima PRO – A compact, single-group machine offering professional-grade results with customizable style.

• Mythos Grinder Range – Including the Mythos MY75, the official grinder of the World Barista Championship, known for consistency and precision.

Connect with Victoria Arduino

To stay updated on product launches, champion appearances, and behind-the-scenes moments from Geneva, follow @victoriaarduinoofficial on Instagram.

Renowned barista and brewing champion Sonam Sherpa has launched an educational series on Instagram dedicated to helping the coffee community master manual brewing. His simple, no-nonsense approach to gear and technique has already sparked interest among followers, with over 47 users expressing a desire to learn how to brew better coffee by hand.

In a refreshing and accessible initiative, barista champion and coffee expert Sonam Sherpa has turned to Instagram to share his brewing knowledge with a growing community of coffee enthusiasts. Under the theme “Manual Brewing Wins,” Sherpa launched a multi-day series aimed at simplifying the world of home brewing and eliminating confusion around coffee equipment and technique.

The launch was inspired by strong engagement from his followers — 47 coffee lovers responded with a resounding “yes please” when asked if they wanted to learn more about brewing better coffee by hand.

Here’s what his four-day mini-series covered:

• Day 1: Pour-over basics

• Day 2: Essential gear (and what’s unnecessary)

• Day 3: Coffee-to-water ratios that make sense

• Day 4: Fixing weak, bitter, or sour brews

“The best part? You don’t need to be an expert,” says Sherpa. “You just need curiosity and a craving for great coffee.”

Throughout the series, Sherpa emphasized a practical philosophy: great coffee doesn’t require expensive tools — just the right ones and a basic understanding of how they work.

The gear Sherpa recommends to get started:

1. A dripper (such as V60, Kalita, Origami — material doesn’t matter)

2. Matching paper filters

3. Fresh coffee beans

4. A burr grinder (manual or electric)

5. A kettle (gooseneck is ideal, but not mandatory)

6. A digital scale

7. Hot water between 90–96°C

As for what you don’t need at the start:

• High-end electric grinders that cost over AED 2,000

• Hyped-up designer drippers that don’t significantly change brew quality

• Matching carafes, artisanal kettles, or stylish stirring tools

Sherpa’s decision-making philosophy is simple and intentional. Before buying a new tool, he asks himself:

“Do I really need this? What change will it make to my coffee experience?”

If he can justify the purchase based on practical value rather than hype, he proceeds. Otherwise, he skips it.

By answering follower questions and breaking down the fundamentals of manual brewing, Sonam Sherpa is turning his Instagram page into a valuable learning platform for beginners and experienced brewers alike. His series offers an approachable path for anyone looking to elevate their home coffee game — without breaking the bank.Follow Sonam Sherpa’s Instagram brewing series and learn how to make better coffee with confidence here.

Umar Patek, the convicted bomb maker behind the 2002 Bali nightclub attacks that killed 202 people, has launched a coffee brand in a highly public attempt to rebuild his life and contribute to deradicalisation efforts in Indonesia.

Now 58 years old, Patek was a key figure in the al-Qaida-linked Jemaah Islamiyah network. He helped assemble a one-tonne bomb that devastated two Bali nightclubs, killing 88 Australians, 38 Indonesians, and victims from 20 other nationalities. He was sentenced to 20 years in 2012 and released on parole in 2022, a decision that drew criticism from survivors and political leaders, especially in Australia.

This week in Surabaya, on Indonesia’s Java island, Patek unveiled his coffee business—Ramu—in collaboration with local dentist and entrepreneur David Andreasmita. The launch event was held at the Hedon Estate café, which displayed banners featuring Patek’s image and showcased his signature spiced coffee blend based on his mother’s recipe.

“I’ve changed now,” Patek told the crowd. “I’m not making bombs anymore – I’m making coffee.”

He acknowledged his struggles with reintegration and employment post-release. “The stigma of being a former terrorism convict made it hard for me to find work,” he said. “I was still shell-shocked by the outside world.”

Patek said he now wants to “brew peace” and help counter violent extremism. He also pledged that a portion of his coffee business profits would go to Bali bombing survivors. “I understand that many people are still angry. But don’t let that doubt stick. Let me prove that I’ve changed.”

Survivors Speak Out

The launch event was emotional, as Chusnul Khotimah, an Indonesian survivor covered in burn scars, confronted Patek in person—just as she did during his sentencing in 2012.

“Do you remember me?” she asked, showing the scars on her arms and hands—reminders of the 70% burns that still cover her body. Patek nodded and repeated his apology.

“I forgive you for what you did,” Chusnul said. “I know you’ve changed for the better. But don’t just say sorry. Help us—truly help the victims.”

Another survivor, Tumini, speaking from Denpasar in Bali, expressed frustration about ongoing medical expenses and urged the government to prioritize long-term aid for victims. “We are still struggling,” she said. “What about our lives?”

A Controversial Transformation

Patek’s journey has become a case study in Indonesia’s deradicalisation programs, which blend counseling, religious re-education, and economic reintegration. Authorities have held him up as an example of successful rehabilitation.

David Andreasmita, the café owner who took a chance on Patek, said, “Many people thought I was crazy to work with a former terrorist. But I believe in second chances.”

Security analyst Noor Huda Ismail, who has worked with Patek post-release, stated, “What matters most is the support ecosystem around him. Rehabilitation isn’t about forgetting the past—it’s about preventing future violence.”

Also attending the event was Marthinus Hukom, former head of Indonesia’s counter-terrorism agency, who had arrested Patek years ago. His presence underscored the official support for Patek’s reintegration.

But for many, including Australian officials, forgiveness is not so easily given. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had previously condemned Patek’s early release, calling it a cause of renewed trauma for victims’ families.

Still, Patek remains determined: “Everyone is watching me now. Let my actions speak.”

More than 100 elite coffee professionals from around the globe will compete for world titles as the World Coffee Championships return to Europe, taking center stage at World of Coffee Geneva 2025, from June 26 to 28 at the Palexpo Exhibition and Convention Center. Organized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), this flagship event will spotlight four international competitions alongside the Coffee Design Awards and Best New Product Awards, celebrating creativity, skill, and innovation in specialty coffee.

Four Prestigious World Coffee Competitions

The event will feature the following global championships:

• World Latte Art Championship (WLAC): Baristas demonstrate mastery of milk and espresso to craft stunning latte designs. A new semi-final format adds an Art Bar segment to the main stage performance, challenging finalists to push the boundaries of visual creativity.

• World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship (WCIGS): Merging the worlds of coffee and cocktail culture, this competition showcases the craft of coffee mixology—from randomized Spirit Bar challenges to on-stage presentations of Irish Coffees and signature beverages.

• World Cup Tasters Championship (WCTC): Speed and sensory accuracy define this competition, where participants must identify the odd cup out in a series of blind tastings. The top four cuppers will face off in a final round to claim the title.

• Cezve/Ibrik Championship (CIC): Honoring one of the oldest coffee traditions, this competition focuses on the art of brewing with the cezve/ibrik. Competitors bring cultural heritage and brewing technique to the global stage.

Spotlight on Design and Innovation

In addition to live competitions, the event will also host the Coffee Design Awards and Best New Product Awards:

• Coffee Design Awards recognize excellence in:

  • Branding: Visual identity and narrative

  • Packaging: Creative and functional design

  • Spaces: Innovative environments for brewing, teaching, or serving coffee

• Best New Product Awards highlight breakthrough innovations in:

  • Brewing equipment (consumer & commercial)

  • Coffee accessories

  • Specialty beverage additives

  • Standalone non-coffee drinks

  • Open class innovations

Powered by Leading Industry Sponsors

The 2025 World Coffee Championships are supported by key sponsors, including:

• Rocket Espresso – WCIGS Qualified Espresso Machine & Grinder Sponsor

• Femobook – WCIGS Qualified Filter Grinder Sponsor

• Brita – WCTC Qualified Water Sponsor

• Porland – WCTC Title Sponsor

• 3TEMP and InterAmerican – WCTC Diamond Sponsors

• Club House – WLAC Diamond Sponsor

• Thermoplan – WLAC Qualified Espresso Machine Sponsor

About World of Coffee Geneva 2025

Recognized as Europe’s largest specialty coffee trade show, World of Coffee Geneva attracts more than 13,000 professionals from over 160 countries, including buyers, roasters, baristas, and equipment manufacturers. With 450+ exhibitors, the event offers unmatched opportunities for networking, product showcases, and global business development—25% of attending buyers report investment capacities exceeding $1 million.

2025 Sponsors Include:

• Host Sponsor: BWT water+more

• Platinum Sponsor: Barista Attitude

• Diamond Sponsor: Nestlé Professional

• Gold Sponsor: Alpro

• Portrait Country: Café de Colombia, featuring cultural experiences and a dedicated pop-up café

Register Now

Registration is open at www.worldofcoffee.org. SCA members enjoy exclusive discounts.

Interested in exhibiting or sponsoring? Space is limited. Contact Margaret Andreucetti at [email protected] or email [email protected] for inquiries. Access the live floor plan here.

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About the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)
The SCA is the world’s leading coffee trade association, dedicated to making coffee better by fostering global collaboration, education, research, and events. Learn more at www.sca.coffee or follow @specialtycoffeeassociation on social media.

Coffee enthusiasts in Dubai are in for a sensory treat as the Consulate General of Peru in Dubai and the Coffee Museum announce “Peruvian Coffee Day”, an exclusive event set to take place on June 1, 2025, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Coffee Museum, Villa 44, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood.

Organized in collaboration with Gaia, the event promises an aromatic evening celebrating Peruvian coffee culture, spotlighting the country’s rich traditions, unique coffee flavors, and centuries-old heritage.

Discover the rich aromas and deep traditions of Peruvian coffee—grown in the highlands of the Andes and the Amazon rainforest, and renowned for its smooth body, bright acidity, and floral and fruity notes. Attendees will experience a curated tasting journey featuring coffee pairings that highlight the distinctive profiles of Peruvian beans, alongside sweet treats and savory bites inspired by the country’s culinary diversity.

More than just a coffee experience, Peruvian Coffee Day is also a celebration of Peru’s globally celebrated gastronomy. Guests can expect a flavorful exploration of iconic dishes, native ingredients, and a cuisine that skillfully blends heritage and innovation, positioning Peru among the world’s top culinary destinations.

This initiative not only showcases the excellence of Peruvian coffee but also aims to strengthen cultural exchange between Peru and the UAE, offering a moment of connection through taste, tradition, and storytelling—all set in the atmospheric heart of old Dubai.

Whether you’re a coffee lover, a food enthusiast, or someone seeking cultural discovery, Peruvian Coffee Day offers a warm invitation into the soul of Peru.

And for those yet to plan their summer getaway, the event also offers inspiration: with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, vibrant traditions, and, of course, exceptional coffee, Peru is waiting for you.

The countdown has begun for World of Coffee Geneva 2025, one of the most anticipated events in the global specialty coffee calendar. Organized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), this premier trade show will take place in Geneva at Palexpo, from June 26 to 28, 2025, gathering the industry’s leading innovators, producers, baristas, roasters, buyers, and media.

Why Geneva?

Geneva’s strategic location and international character make it an ideal host city. With direct flights from 145 destinations and a venue just seven minutes’ walk from the airport, accessibility is one of its biggest advantages. The city is also committed to sustainability, offering free public transport and aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050.

In addition, Geneva boasts a diverse population—40% of its residents come from over 190 nationalities—offering unmatched global networking opportunities.

A Platform for Global Coffee Leadership

World of Coffee Geneva is more than an exhibition—it’s a stage for global coffee leadership. The event provides exhibitors the opportunity to:

• Launch new products with maximum visibility

• Forge strategic partnerships

• Drive sales and brand recognition

• Showcase innovations in sustainability and design

The show will also host the World Coffee Championships, including:

• World Latte Art Championship

• World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship

• World Cup Tasters Championship

• Cezve/Ibrik Championship

Other key features include:

• Best New Product Competition

• Coffee Design Awards

• Over 30 cupping sessions

• Two Roaster Villages

• SCA Lecture Series & Workshops

• Green Coffee Connect

• A dedicated Retail Buyers Lounge

Who Will Be There?

The event attracts a wide range of professionals, including:

• Baristas and café owners

• Coffee buyers and green coffee importers/exporters

• Coffee producers and quality control experts

• Educators, trainers, and consultants

• Business development executives

• Press and media

• Engineers and equipment specialists

In 2024, the event in Copenhagen welcomed more than 13,000 visitors from 150 countries, with over 430 exhibitors and 120 roasters participating.

What’s on Display?

Visitors will find a dynamic exhibition floor featuring:

• Green and roasted coffee (wholesale)

• Commercial brewing and grinding equipment

• Packaging materials and retail accessories

• Flavorings, syrups, additives, and allied food products

• Water treatment solutions

• Carts, kiosks, and professional services

According to statistics from the previous edition:

• 93% of attendees said products and services were well represented

• 98% of past attendees plan to return for Geneva 2025

High-Value Buyers and Global Media

World of Coffee Geneva is a magnet for serious business. A full 25% of buyers are prepared to invest over $1 million in the coming year. Exhibitors can expect direct engagement with decision-makers, brand exposure through global media, and opportunities to build lasting industry connections.

The event’s atmosphere fosters both trust and business momentum, driven by one-on-one product experiences and live demonstrations.

Booth Options and Pricing

Two types of booths are available:

1. Space Only Booth:
For custom setups with complete flexibility. Exhibitor handles design, structure, and power.

2. Shell Scheme Booth:
A ready-to-use framework ideal for smaller or perimeter booths, includes walls, basic lighting, name panel, flooring, and electrical socket. Mandatory for booths up to 15 m².

Booth Costs (per m²):

• 50% deposit due within one month of invoice

• Full payment required by April 15, 2025

• A €150 media pack fee applies per exhibiting company

Roaster Village Participation

The Roaster Village package is priced at €1,750 and includes:

• 2×1 meter counter

• Electrical socket (1 kW)

• Name card

• Access to water and cleaning facilities

Eligibility is limited to specialty coffee roasters or green importers with annual revenue under $5 million. Tastings and/or cuppings must be offered.

Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities

Exhibitors and sponsors can maximize their visibility through digital channels including:

• Website homepage ads (€6,500)

• Subpage placements (€4,000)

• Interest list newsletter (€3,000)

• Attendee email blasts (€2,500)

• World of Coffee app banners (€2,000)

• Push notifications via app (€1,500)

Limited slots are available. Contact: [email protected]

Award Competitions

Best New Product Awards:
Categories include coffee accessories, preparation tools, additives, and specialty beverages. Open to exhibitors in April 2025.

Coffee Design Awards:
Open to the broader coffee community with categories in branding, packaging, and space design.

Details: worldofcoffee.org

Travel and Accommodation

SCA’s official housing partner, BNetwork, provides streamlined hotel booking with competitive rates and proximity to the event venue. More information is available at: wochotels.bnetwork.com

Organizers and Contact

World of Coffee is organized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the world’s largest coffee trade organization, focused on education, sustainability, standards, and industry advancement.

• Exhibit: [email protected]

• Sponsorship: [email protected]

• Invoices: [email protected]

• Registration: [email protected]

• Membership: [email protected]

Secure your space, showcase your coffee innovations, and connect with the most dynamic players in specialty coffee at World of Coffee Geneva 2025.

Explore more at www.worldofcoffee.org

Achieving notable success in the food and beverage industry within just six months is rare. In a city like Sharjah, where the café scene is vibrant and highly competitive, it’s even more impressive. Yet, Baitna Café has defied the odds — transforming from an ambitious idea into one of the most sought-after destinations for coffee lovers in the UAE.

The story begins with young entrepreneurs Hanan Al Haddad and Abduljawad Al Qaisi, who set out to build more than just a coffee shop. They envisioned a space that radiates warmth, community, and belonging. They chose a striking location — the 30th floor of Tabarak Tower in Al Mamzar — and named it Baitna, Arabic for “our home.” To bring their vision to life, they teamed up with internationally renowned barista and coffee expert Samson Kiaponga, who took the lead in crafting the café’s experience and training the team.

I had the chance to visit Baitna Café during its early soft opening. I saw ambition in the eyes of the founders, but also a clear sense of anxiety — understandable, considering the high costs and risks of launching such a project in a premium location. Yet beneath that concern was a powerful commitment to delivering something exceptional.

Several months later, I returned to the café, this time with two old friends from university. We were looking for a cozy, special place to enjoy an evening together. But what greeted us was a pleasant surprise: a long line at the entrance and a requirement for reservations. Despite its spacious layout — with a large indoor lounge and two outdoor terraces offering stunning views of Dubai and Sharjah — the café was full.

I worried we might not find a table or would have to leave, but that worry quickly turned to admiration. Seeing a local business thrive this quickly was heartwarming. Thankfully, Samson kindly found us a small table in the corner — more than enough to enjoy the atmosphere.

From that cozy spot, we watched the evening unfold: guests chatting over perfectly brewed drinks, the team moving swiftly yet professionally, and the glittering skyline stretching across the horizon. Despite the rush, the staff upheld the highest standards of quality, service, and hospitality.

I wasn’t able to speak with Hanan or Abduljawad that night, and even Samson was too busy to talk. But the reasons for the café’s success were clear in every detail:

1. Product quality – carefully selected beans from Colombia and Ethiopia, plus creative, well-balanced signature drinks.

2. Outstanding service – a well-trained, upbeat team that performs under pressure.

3. Unforgettable location – breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere that elevates the coffee experience.

4. Inspirational leadership – three passionate individuals who brought this vision to life with clarity and purpose.

Baitna Café is more than a coffee shop. It’s a complete experience, one that begins before you even step inside. From sunsets on the terrace to peaceful moments high above the city, from exceptional drinks to thoughtful design — every aspect has been crafted with intention.

In a market filled with lookalike concepts, Baitna Café stands apart by offering something deeply authentic. This is a space where coffee is respected, guests are valued, and each visit feels memorable.

This project proves a simple truth: when genuine passion meets professional execution, remarkable things happen — and they happen fast.

To Hanan, Abduljawad, Samson, and the entire Baitna Café team — congratulations. You haven’t just opened a café. You’ve created a home for coffee, one that floats high above the city and stays in the hearts of those who visit.

The Specialty Coffee Association of Indonesia partners with the SCA to implement the Coffee Value Assessment as Indonesia’s official quality standard, enhancing transparency, global market access, and coffee education.

In a move set to redefine the future of Indonesian specialty coffee, the Specialty Coffee Association of Indonesia (SCAI) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) to formally adopt the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) as the national protocol for evaluating specialty coffee. This collaboration marks a pivotal step toward raising quality standards, boosting transparency, and expanding education for coffee professionals across Indonesia.

As Asia’s second-largest coffee producer, Indonesia is renowned for its diverse coffee origins, spanning regions such as Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and Bali. By aligning with global protocols such as the CVA—already adopted by Brazil and Colombia—Indonesia solidifies its role as a forward-thinking leader in the specialty coffee industry.

The Coffee Value Assessment is an innovative, multi-dimensional framework created by the SCA to evaluate coffee across physical, affective, descriptive, and extrinsic attributes. Unlike traditional cupping forms focused solely on taste, CVA encourages a more holistic and inclusive understanding of coffee value—enabling better storytelling, traceability, and equity for producers and stakeholders throughout the supply chain.

Under the terms of the agreement, the SCA will provide technical support to SCAI, including educational content, training for local cuppers and educators, and global promotion of Indonesian coffee. SCAI will take the lead on national implementation, integrating CVA into competitions, quality control systems, and certification programs.

“This partnership is a milestone for Indonesia’s coffee community,” said Daryanto Witarsa, President of SCAI. “Adopting the Coffee Value Assessment gives our producers the tools to tell the full story of their coffee. We’re advancing quality, equity, and market opportunity for everyone involved in our vibrant coffee sector.”

As part of the rollout, Indonesian coffee professionals will gain broader access to SCA Education programs, including certifications and workshops designed to align with the CVA framework. These initiatives aim to empower producers, exporters, roasters, and baristas with internationally recognized knowledge and credentials.

The CVA will also be embedded into national competitions, allowing Indonesian coffees to be judged and promoted using the same globally accepted language of quality. This alignment with international standards is expected to open new doors for export growth and improved value recognition on the world stage.

“This partnership brings our mission to life,” said Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association. “The adoption of the Coffee Value Assessment by SCAI is more than just a protocol change—it’s a statement of Indonesia’s commitment to transparency, sustainability, and the celebration of every hand in the value chain.”

The agreement builds on a longstanding relationship between SCA and SCAI and signals a deepened commitment to shared goals in quality assurance, research, and sustainability. As global demand for traceable, high-quality coffee grows, Indonesia’s integration of the CVA places it at the forefront of a global shift toward inclusive value systems in coffee production.

By embedding education, evaluation, and equity into one framework, the CVA ensures that Indonesian coffee can not only meet but lead in global specialty coffee trends.

To learn more about the Coffee Value Assessment and this new chapter in Indonesian coffee, visit:
🔗 www.sca.coffee
🔗 www.scaindonesia.or.id

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has unveiled a transformative pricing model for its education programs, aimed at making coffee learning more accessible and equitable worldwide. The model adjusts costs based on local economic conditions, reducing fees for learners and trainers in lower-income countries. This strategic shift will launch in 2025, further expanding access following the association’s move to offer free global membership in 2024.

Explore the full details of SCA’s educational evolution here.

A New Chapter in Coffee Education: SCA Introduces Region-Based Pricing to Make Learning More Accessible

In a major move set to democratize access to specialty coffee education, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has announced a groundbreaking pricing model that adjusts course and trainer fees based on a country’s economic standing. The initiative, which takes effect in 2025, is designed to remove financial barriers and expand educational opportunities in emerging markets and underserved communities across the globe.

For decades, the SCA has been a global standard-bearer in coffee knowledge—developing tools, guidelines, and curricula that have empowered professionals from seed to cup. Yet as the coffee industry evolves and expands, so too does the demand for more affordable, inclusive education.

Why Now?

“Education serves as the foundation for careers, leadership, and innovation throughout the value chain,” said Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the SCA. “After years of dedicated work, we are proud to introduce a new model designed to make our education more accessible and widely available.”

This announcement follows a similar move by the SCA last year to eliminate membership fees, making access to its global community free of charge. The new pricing model represents the next step in ensuring coffee professionals everywhere—regardless of location or income—can grow their careers through SCA certification.

How the Model Works

Using economic data from the International Monetary Fund and the Purchasing Power Parity per Capita Index, the SCA has grouped countries into five tiers. Education fees will be scaled accordingly:

• A learner in Group 5 (high-income countries) will pay $50 per course.

• A learner in Group 1 (lower-income countries) will pay just $8.

Similarly, the annual license fee for Authorized SCA Trainers (ASTs) will be:

• $975 in Group 5 countries.

• Only $115 in Group 1 countries.

This regionally adjusted model applies across all SCA certificate programs, including the renowned Q Program. While trainers still retain the ability to set their own prices, this structure offers a consistent and transparent baseline that reflects economic realities.

Building a More Inclusive Coffee Community

The goal, according to the SCA, is to meet learners where they are—geographically, financially, and professionally. By doing so, the association aims to foster a more equitable and empowered global coffee industry.

The pricing changes are also backed by a range of partnerships with key industry institutions that are helping the SCA expand access while leveraging local expertise. Among these partners are:

• Coffee Quality Institute (CQI)

• Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC)

• Brazil Specialty Coffee Association (BSCA)

These collaborations ensure that educational offerings remain rooted in regional context while maintaining global quality standards.

What’s Next?

The full pricing matrix is now live on the SCA Education website, and a series of online and in-person info sessions are planned in the coming weeks. The first will take place at World of Coffee Jakarta on May 17 at 12:00pm in the Kakatua Room—with no registration required.

The rollout of the new pricing structure is scheduled to begin in the coming months. With this bold step, the SCA is not only modernizing its educational framework but reaffirming its mission: to make coffee better—together.

A seemingly simple gesture by  U.S. President Donald Trump sparked widespread debate after his arrival at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Cameras captured Trump holding a traditional Arabic coffee cup without taking a sip — a moment that quickly drew attention on social media platforms. However, during the official reception at Al-Yamamah Palace, he was later seen drinking the coffee, according to the official Saudi Press Agency, which noted that all attendees partook in the tradition.

This moment gained traction due to Trump’s well-known stance on abstaining from certain substances. Throughout his public life, Trump has repeatedly stated that he avoids alcohol, cigarettes, and coffee, and has advised his children to do the same.

In a 2011 interview with CNN, Trump said, “I’ve never done drugs, never smoked cigarettes, and never had coffee.” He reiterated this commitment in his book The America We Deserve, writing: “I’ve lived my life as an open book. I don’t pretend to be something I’m not. What you see is what you get. I’ve never used drugs, never had a drink of alcohol, never smoked a cigarette, and never had a cup of coffee.”

The apparent contradiction left observers divided: some argued that Trump may have simply been honoring Saudi hospitality traditions, while others questioned whether he had softened his long-standing personal rules. Though Trump has not made any comment on the incident, the scene continues to spark discussion about the balance between personal principles and diplomatic courtesy.

 

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