Category: News

Winners Announced for the Best New Product Awards at the 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo

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The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) officially announced the winners of the Best New Product Awards at the 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo in Houston, recognizing outstanding innovation and creativity across the specialty coffee and beverage industries.

This year’s winners represent excellence and advancement across seven distinguished categories, each setting new standards in their respective fields.

2025 Best New Product Awards Winners

  • Commercial Coffee Preparation & Serving Equipment
    ROEST | Coffee Roasting Technology
    Awarded for the ROEST P3000 (Booth 907)
    Helping coffee people make better coffee since 2014, based in Norway.

  • Coffee Accessories
    ICOSA Brewhouse
    Awarded for the Avensi Wave (Booth 1430)
    Innovative coffee and sensory drinkware designed for the adventurous.

  • Specialty Non-Coffee Beverage Standalone
    Harris Woolf Almonds
    Awarded for Almond Milk 2.0 (Booth 2759)
    Superior almond ingredients for exceptional products and innovations.

  • Specialty Coffee Beverage Additive
    Hacco Official
    Awarded for KOJI BARISTA (Booth 2739)
    Transforming Japanese koji into rich, natural flavors where tradition meets innovation.

  • Open Class
    Squeaky
    Awarded for SQUEAKY | HOM Chubby (Booth 2736)
    Innovative solutions for coffee preparation and sensory experiences.

  • Consumer Coffee Preparation & Serving Equipment
    OXO
    Awarded for the OXO Brew Rapid Brewer, model 8722500 (Booth 2423)
    Designing products that make everyday better, every day.

  • People’s Choice Award
    Time 100 Inc
    Awarded for Mago Maga Smart Home Coffee Bean Roaster (Booth 662)

Celebrating Innovation in Specialty Coffee

The Best New Product Awards honor companies that push the boundaries of quality, functionality, and creative design in the coffee and beverage industries.
This year’s winners reflect the forward-thinking spirit that continues to shape the future of specialty coffee worldwide.

Visitors to the Expo are encouraged to explore the award-winning products and meet the teams behind these groundbreaking innovations.

For more information about the Specialty Coffee Expo and future award programs, visit the official website.

Applications Open for CAS in Coffee Excellence

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During the dynamic activities of the Specialty Coffee Expo 2025 in Houston, the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), announced that applications are now open for the next intake of the prestigious Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Coffee Excellence program.

Offered entirely online by the ZHAW Coffee Excellence Center, this postgraduate certificate is designed for passionate coffee professionals seeking to master the science behind specialty coffee—from green coffee processing to extraction and sensory analysis.

A Scientific Journey from Crop to Cup

The CAS in Coffee Excellence program offers:

  • Virtual laboratories and expert-led interactive sessions.

  • Self-directed research projects focused on real-world coffee challenges.

  • Multidisciplinary scientific learning integrating the latest industry research.

  • Flexible remote learning over three modules, each lasting 21 weeks, totaling 15 ECTS credits.

The curriculum is structured to provide a critical scientific understanding of the coffee value chain. Participants study topics ranging from coffee botany, post-harvest processing, roasting chemistry, extraction science, to sensory evaluation—all guided by leading coffee scientists such as Dr. Sebastian Opitz and Dr. Samo Smrke.

Who Should Apply

The CAS program targets:

  • Coffee professionals along the supply chain, including producers, roasters, café managers, sales and marketing specialists, quality managers, and sustainability experts.

  • Coffee industry managers and researchers.

  • University graduates with at least two years of professional coffee experience.

  • Non-degree holders with a minimum of three years of relevant industry experience.

Proficiency in English is required, as all course materials and sessions are conducted in English.

Key Dates and Costs

  • Application Deadline: August 31, 2025

  • Program Start: September 29, 2025

  • Duration: 15 months (three modules)

  • Tuition Fee: CHF 7,800 (includes materials, samples for assessment, virtual lessons, and certification)

The course is structured for working professionals, requiring an estimated workload of 6–9 hours per week.

Graduates of the program will receive a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Coffee Excellence, a highly respected qualification within the specialty coffee industry.

Advancing Coffee Knowledge Globally

The CAS in Coffee Excellence reflects the ZHAW’s and SCA’s shared commitment to advancing coffee education worldwide by offering flexible, science-based learning opportunities for professionals who aim to push the boundaries of coffee excellence.

For more information, detailed course content, and to apply, visit the ZHAW Coffee Excellence Center website.

SCA Launches WCC Judge Skills Program

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At the Specialty Coffee Expo 2025 in Houston, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) announced the launch of the World Coffee Championships (WCC) Judge Skills Program, a new educational initiative aimed at preparing coffee professionals to become world-class competition judges.

The WCC Judge Skills Program offers a structured course for those aspiring to judge at World Coffee Championships events. Developed by certified WCC Representatives and aligned with the latest research and standards from the SCA, the program provides training on judging criteria, scoring systems, and evaluation methods.

A New Pathway for Aspiring Judges

This in-person training offers participants a comprehensive understanding of:

  • WCC competition judging criteria and scoring methods.

  • Latest WCC Rules & Regulations.

  • Evaluation based on the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) system.

Workshops are led by certified WCC Representatives and held at local events around the world, making the program accessible to a global audience. Participants who complete the training will receive an official digital certificate issued by both the SCA and WCC.

Although not a mandatory prerequisite for WCC Judge Certification, this course serves as an essential preparation step for those planning to certify.

Who Should Attend

The WCC Judge Skills Program is recommended for:

  • Competition Body (CB) Judges seeking to advance to world-level competitions.

  • Competitors aiming to better understand scoring systems.

  • Coffee professionals and enthusiasts eager to learn about WCC judging processes.

By completing the course, participants will gain the knowledge needed to develop judging skills, understand how competitions are scored, and take a first step toward becoming certified WCC judges.

To find out more about the WCC Judge Skills Program and upcoming events, visit wcc.coffee/judge-skills.

SCA and CQI Announce New Grant to Support Coffee Communities

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During a significant moment at the Specialty Coffee Expo 2025 in Houston, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) announced a new grant agreement that will provide vital funding for development initiatives in coffee-producing regions around the world.

The announcement was made today at CQI’s 25th Annual Luncheon, an event that gathered leading figures in the specialty coffee community to celebrate CQI’s ongoing impact. Under the newly signed agreement, the SCA will contribute a percentage of its annual education revenues directly to CQI’s Development Fund, bolstering CQI’s mission to improve coffee quality and enhance the livelihoods of coffee producers globally.

Strengthening Global Coffee Communities

Speaking about the agreement, Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association, emphasized the significance of the collaboration:

“The Specialty Coffee Association is honored to support the Coffee Quality Institute’s Development Fund and its vital role in advancing inclusive, sustainable development across the coffee sector. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to center producers, recognize the full value of coffee, and make coffee better for everyone across the value chain.”

The funding from the SCA will ensure ongoing support for CQI’s project work in coffee-producing countries, enabling the organization to continue offering critical training and capacity-building initiatives where they are most needed.

Michael Sheridan, CEO of the Coffee Quality Institute, highlighted the strategic importance of this new support:

“It is hard to overestimate the importance of this agreement for CQI and the people we serve. At a time when traditional sources of funding for development assistance are being eliminated, SCA is stepping into the vacuum and demonstrating real leadership. Its financial commitment to CQI will enable us to expand the scope of our work in the places where coffee is grown.”

Building on a Historic Partnership

This new funding agreement builds on the historic partnership announced on April 24, 2025, between the SCA and CQI. That broader collaboration will also involve the evolution of the Q Grader Program, with management responsibilities transitioning to the SCA. This transition is designed to further unify global coffee quality standards and expand access to professional development opportunities within the industry.

The Specialty Coffee Association’s investment in the Coffee Quality Institute’s Development Fund positions it as a leading force in supporting sustainable development across the specialty coffee sector. It ensures that the people who produce coffee — the farmers and processors at the heart of the value chain — receive the training, tools, and recognition necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing global market.

About the Coffee Quality Institute

For more than two decades, the Coffee Quality Institute has worked in over 30 coffee-growing countries, providing training programs, technical assistance, and quality improvement services funded by public and private donors. CQI’s mission is rooted in enhancing coffee quality while promoting equitable, sustainable development among the world’s coffee producers.

About the Specialty Coffee Association

The Specialty Coffee Association is a nonprofit membership organization that represents coffee professionals from around the world. The SCA is committed to building an inclusive, sustainable specialty coffee community and works to advance coffee knowledge, support producers, and enhance the specialty coffee experience globally.

SCA and FNC Sign Historic Agreement to Advance Colombian Specialty Coffee

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In a milestone moment at the 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo in Houston, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) signed a transformative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing the traceability, differentiation, and global recognition of Colombian specialty coffee.

Held at the George R. Brown Convention Center, the signing ceremony was attended by industry leaders including Garfield Kerr, President of the SCA, and Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the SCA, along with Germán Bahamón, CEO of the FNC, and other dignitaries.

This agreement builds upon a longstanding collaboration between the two organizations, formalizing a shared vision to set new standards for specialty coffee and open greater opportunities for Colombian coffee growers.

Key Components of the Partnership

Under the MoU:

  • Farm-Level Adoption of CVA: The Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) methodology will be implemented from the farm level across Colombia’s specialty coffee sector.

  • Training and Technical Support: FNC technical teams and cuppers will undergo intensive training to master CVA protocols, with the SCA providing technical assistance and capacity-building resources.

  • Customized CVA Application: A dedicated digital platform for Colombian coffee will be developed to enhance data tracking, analysis, and communication of coffee attributes.

  • Research and Data Sharing: The SCA will collaborate with the FNC by sharing CVA data to inform Colombian producers about evolving market trends and preferences.

  • Transparency and Direct Market Access: The agreement aims to strengthen transparency, linking farmers directly with buyers who value quality and craftsmanship.

Through this partnership, the FNC becomes an official CVA Patron, positioning Colombia at the forefront of global efforts to redefine how specialty coffees are evaluated and promoted.

Official Statements

Germán Bahamón, CEO of the FNC, stated:
“Colombian coffee growers are at the heart of the world’s specialty coffee community. By adopting innovative tools like the Coffee Value Assessment, we open the door to greater recognition, alignment with market preferences, and prosperity for our farmers. Colombia, the heart of specialty coffees.”

Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the SCA, added:
“Partnering with the FNC represents a major milestone for the Coffee Value Assessment and our shared mission to make coffee better for all. Coffee is more than a score — it’s a story of people, place, and potential.”

A Landmark Moment for Specialty Coffee

The signing, taking place during the largest gathering of specialty coffee professionals at the 2025 Expo, highlights the growing importance of partnerships focused on quality, transparency, and equitable value distribution across the coffee supply chain.

Through joint promotion efforts, international events, and sustained global outreach, the SCA and FNC aim to amplify the voice of Colombian specialty coffee, empowering producers and enriching the global coffee community.

Opening of the 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo in Houston

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The global coffee community is gathering this weekend at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as the 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo officially opens its doors. With the ribbon ceremoniously cut and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air, thousands of industry professionals from around the world are poised to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of specialty coffee.

The opening ceremony was held in the presence of Garfield Kerr, newly appointed President of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), and Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the SCA, along with other leading officials and distinguished guests. Their participation underscores the significance of this year’s Expo as a milestone event in the specialty coffee industry’s evolution.

Organized annually by the Specialty Coffee Association, the Expo is recognized as the world’s premier coffee trade show, bringing together a dynamic mix of coffee growers, roasters, baristas, equipment manufacturers, researchers, educators, and enthusiasts.

A Global Celebration of Specialty Coffee

The excitement in Houston is palpable as attendees—representing every link in the coffee value chain—embark on three days of discovery, learning, and inspiration. As the largest specialty coffee event of its kind, the Expo is a critical platform for showcasing innovations, discussing industry challenges, and forging new partnerships across continents.

This year, Promperu has been honored as the Expo’s official Portrait Country, shining a spotlight on Peru’s rich coffee heritage, diverse microclimates, and exceptional bean quality. Visitors can experience Peru’s vibrant coffee culture through tastings, exhibitions, and direct engagement with producers.

The 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo is proudly supported by leading industry partners:

  • Title Sponsor: Middleby Coffee Solutions Group

  • Diamond Sponsor: Sanremo Coffee Machines

  • Platinum Sponsor: Pacific Foods Barista Series

Their contributions ensure the event maintains its world-class standing while fostering innovation and excellence throughout the industry.

Key Attractions and Experiences

Attendees have access to an expansive range of activities across the Expo floor, including:

  • Exhibition Halls featuring hundreds of exhibitors presenting the latest in coffee technology, brewing equipment, sustainable solutions, and green coffee sourcing.

  • The Roaster Village, where micro-roasters and established brands alike offer samples of unique coffees and innovative roasting profiles.

  • The Design Lab, a curated exhibit showcasing the best in coffee space architecture, branding, packaging, and product design.

  • Lectures and Workshops, providing education on a wide array of topics including coffee science, sustainability, market trends, and business development.

  • Cupping Rooms, offering opportunities to taste coffees from around the world and understand emerging profiles and processing methods.

  • The US Coffee Championships stages, where top competitors in brewing, barista skills, coffee tasting (cup tasters), and roasting showcase their talents and vie for national titles.

The Specialty Coffee Expo is not only about business; it’s about community, creativity, and pushing the boundaries of what coffee can be.

Renewed Focus on Sustainability

Since 2012, sustainability has been a core principle guiding the organization of Expo events. In 2025, the SCA reaffirms its commitment to reducing environmental impact through several important initiatives:

  • This year’s Expo will partially offset its carbon footprint by supporting agroforestry and forest restoration projects in Burundi, in partnership with Sucafina and implemented by the Kahawatu Foundation.

  • The initiative is supported by industry leaders Barista Attitude and Pacific Barista Series, reinforcing the collective responsibility of the coffee community to act against climate change.

  • Attendees are encouraged to participate in sustainability efforts by learning more about these initiatives and integrating sustainable practices into their own operations.

By addressing environmental concerns head-on, the SCA and its partners demonstrate that growth and responsibility must go hand-in-hand.

A Catalyst for Growth and Innovation

The Expo serves as a catalyst for professional and personal growth. Attendees gain not only new technical skills and market insights but also a deeper understanding of the global issues that shape the coffee industry. From emerging brewing methods to innovations in fermentation, from discussions about climate resilience to the latest trends in coffee marketing, the knowledge exchange is constant and transformative.

Each year, participants leave the Expo with renewed energy, armed with the tools and inspiration to continue elevating coffee excellence in their own communities.

An Invitation to Engage

The 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo continues through the weekend, offering countless opportunities to discover new ideas, forge meaningful connections, and celebrate a shared passion for coffee. The SCA encourages all attendees to share their experiences and moments of inspiration using the official event hashtag #coffeeexpo2025 across social platforms.

Badges are available at coffeeexpo.org, and visitors are advised to explore the full program to make the most of their Expo journey.

As the coffee community comes together once again, one thing is clear: the Specialty Coffee Expo is not just an event—it is a movement. A movement fueled by a love for coffee, a dedication to craft, and a vision for a more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative industry.

“Coffee People for Palestine”: A New Initiative to Support Gaza

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In an effort to confront the coffee industry’s ongoing silence over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, a new fundraiser, Coffee People for Palestine, has been launched, calling on coffee businesses and professionals to take a stand and offer tangible support.

David Lalonde, co-founder of Canadian coffee company Rabbit Hole Roasters, initiated the fundraiser on April 14, aiming not only to raise money for humanitarian relief but also to challenge the industry’s ethical posturing. The campaign supports The Sameer Project, a Palestinian-led mutual aid organization providing critical assistance on the ground in Gaza. As of now, the initiative has raised over $2,500, with donations open until May 15.

“The coffee industry often claims a moral high ground,” Lalonde said. “We advocate for sustainability, fair pay, and better sourcing practices, yet remain silent on one of the greatest humanitarian crises of our time. This fundraiser is a wake-up call.”

The Sameer Project, based in London and founded by four Palestinians in the diaspora, works closely with teams in Gaza to deliver food, water, medical supplies, and direct financial support to displaced families. Their work has been vital as Gaza faces catastrophic conditions, with severe restrictions on aid and widespread famine warnings issued by international organizations.

Collaborating with coffee companies such as Heart Roasters, Tabeeb Roasters, and community-driven groups like Getchusomegear and Stay Bloomin, Lalonde emphasized the importance of collective action. “I wanted to show that it’s not just me—that there are many in the coffee community who care deeply,” he said.

The fundraiser also features a cultural raffle for donors, offering Palestinian olive oil, keffiyehs, embroidery art, and copies of Ilan Pappe’s A Very Short History of the Israel-Palestine Conflict. Lalonde hopes that celebrating Palestinian culture will encourage deeper engagement with the cause.

For many, the industry’s current response contrasts sharply with its previous mobilization for Ukraine in 2022, when major coffee organizations such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) openly supported Ukrainian communities and barred Russian participation from global events. In the case of Gaza, however, the industry’s silence has been conspicuous.

“The discrepancy is staggering,” Lalonde noted. “We know the coffee community can come together. We’ve seen it before. So what’s the excuse now?”

Tahani Hassan, co-owner of Tabeeb Roasters, expressed cautious optimism about the impact of the fundraiser. “While the response has been encouraging, there’s still a broader reluctance to take decisive action,” she said. “We hope this effort empowers more people to use their voices.”

Running through May 15, which marks Nakba Day—the commemoration of the mass displacement of Palestinians in 1948—the fundraiser underscores the enduring nature of the conflict and the urgent need for international solidarity.

As Gaza faces extreme shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, and as hospitals continue to be destroyed or rendered inoperable, projects like the Sameer Project have become essential lifelines for those trapped in the besieged territory.

Lalonde and his collaborators stress that meaningful change requires sustained action beyond social media posts and public statements. “True solidarity costs something,” Lalonde said, quoting activist and author Cole Arthur Riley. “We have to move beyond talking a good game. It’s time to match our words with deeds.”

Through initiatives like Coffee People for Palestine, organizers hope to set a precedent for how the specialty coffee community—and other industries—can mobilize in times of global crisis, not only for Gaza but for any community in need.

Mokha 1450 Launches World’s First Interactive Specialty Café at Emirates Towers, Blending Coffee and AI Innovation

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At the Heart of Emirates Towers in Dubai, Mokha 1450 Opens the World’s First Interactive Café, Once Again Elevating the Specialty Coffee Experience

Mokha 1450, a pioneer in the specialty coffee scene, has officially opened its latest showroom—Mokha 1450 Specialty Coffee Priorists—in Area 2071 at Emirates Towers. The launch coincides with the first day of Dubai’s Artificial Intelligence Week, held at the Museum of the Future and the Boulevard area of the Towers.

The showroom offers a world-first experience, where the menu becomes secondary, and each guest drives their own coffee journey based on mood and curiosity—whether to enjoy a bespoke brew, deepen their knowledge of coffee, or explore the boundaries of what’s possible. For example, a guest interested in mastering the art of espresso can learn and try making one themselves. The coffee bar offers a 360-degree interactive layout, allowing guests to position themselves wherever they wish, depending on the experience they seek—limited only by their imagination.

This strategic launch, aligned with a globally significant tech event, reinforces Mokha 1450’s pivotal role in promoting specialty coffee culture in Dubai. It also highlights the brand’s ongoing commitment to innovation and emerging technologies—especially artificial intelligence—in advancing the coffee industry.

Mokha 1450 is among the first specialty coffee brands to integrate AI into its operations. As the official sponsor of the UAE AeroPress Championship since its inception, Mokha 1450 made AI the central theme of the 2023 edition of the competition, held at Dubai Multi Commodities Centre in October 2023.

During Artificial Intelligence Week, attendees and office workers at Emirates Towers experienced a unique, once-in-a-lifetime coffee moment. The Mokha 1450 Specialty Coffee Priorists team crafted coffee using a bespoke AeroPress device inspired by the Museum of the Future’s architecture—featuring a recipe 100% created by AI using the prompt: “Create an AeroPress World Championship Competition-winning recipe.”

This latest expansion is part of Mokha 1450’s strategy to deliver exceptional coffee experiences in iconic locations, catering to a clientele that includes innovators, entrepreneurs, and coffee connoisseurs. The new showroom embraces a modern, minimalist design that reflects the brand’s identity, while offering diverse brewing methods, innovative beverages like the globally renowned Smoke and Diamonds Zero Proof Cocktail, and curated experiences such as Coffee & Canapés Discourse, Coffee & Chocolate Discourse, and Zero Proof Cocktail Masterclasses, with additional customized options available upon request.

The name “Coffee Priorists” honors the brand’s discerning clientele, defined as “experts or enthusiasts who seek coffee experiences that are exceptional, authentic, and intrinsically valuable”—a definition that perfectly encapsulates the Mokha 1450 philosophy.

Rooted in the belief that it is “The Heart of Coffee,” Mokha 1450 offers a curated selection of the finest beans sourced from Ethiopia, Yemen, Colombia, and Jamaica. Its luxury offerings include the exclusive Jamaica Blue Mountain and Yemeni Sabri coffees, alongside elegant gift boxes designed for true Coffee Priorists.

Founded in 2013, Mokha 1450 was the first brand to introduce the “boutique specialty coffee” concept to Dubai. Since then, it has played a vital role in positioning the UAE as a world-leading destination for rare coffee varieties and exceptional sensory experiences.

SCA and CQI Announce New Q Grader Program Based on Coffee Value Assessment

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The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) have announced a historic partnership that will transform coffee education and support for professionals across the industry. As part of this strategic collaboration, the globally recognized Q Grader Program will be evolved and managed solely by the SCA starting October 1, 2025, with CQI stepping away from program operations.

The newly evolved Q Grader license will become the first and only qualification based on the SCA’s Coffee Value Assessment (CVA)—a groundbreaking evaluation system introduced in 2023 that expands coffee quality assessment beyond flavor to encompass the full range of attributes that contribute to a coffee’s value.

This updated program will provide coffee professionals with a globally recognized credential for evaluating and communicating quality and value in specialty coffee. The transition will also create more inclusive pathways for those seeking Q certification. Holders of the SCA Sensory Skills Professional Certificate, and current or former Arabica or Robusta Q Graders, Instructors, or Assistant Instructors, may fast-track their updated certification by completing the SCA’s CVA for Cuppers Course by December 31, 2025.

Research-Informed, Skills-Based Curriculum

The evolved Q Grader Program, built on the Coffee Value Assessment, will feature a robust curriculum focused on practical sensory evaluation techniques, defect identification in green coffee, and quality control. Graduates of the program will earn the evolved Q Grader license, reflecting a modern and scientifically informed approach to assessing coffee.

“Coffee is more than a score,” said Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association. “This partnership marks a major milestone in our mission to make coffee better. Graduates of the evolved Q Program will lead the way in redefining coffee evaluation with a holistic approach rooted in value.”

Michael Sheridan, CEO of the Coffee Quality Institute, added: “We’re proud of the Q Program’s impact over the past 20 years and honored by the industry’s trust. Now, we’re excited to partner with the SCA to evolve the Q in a way that meets the coffee sector’s changing needs.”

Attendees of the Specialty Coffee Expo in Houston can learn more about the evolved program by joining daily info sessions or visiting the SCA Community Lounge.

Nuova Simonelli Announces Finalists for Dubai Technicians Competition

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Nuova Simonelli has unveiled the eight finalists for its inaugural Technicians Competition, set to take place on April 29 at the Nuova Simonelli Experience Lab in Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, Dubai. This event, organized in collaboration with REPA, Cafetto, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) UAE Chapter, and BWT, aims to spotlight the expertise and dedication of espresso machine technicians across the Middle East.​

The competition will feature a single-elimination format, where technicians will engage in real-world challenges, including diagnosing malfunctions and fine-tuning machines for optimal performance. Each match will last 30 minutes and utilize the NUOVA Aurelia Volumetric XT machine. Participants were selected through an online technical quiz conducted between March 14 and March 31, ensuring a diverse representation from leading companies in the region. ​nuovasimonelli.it

Judging will be conducted by a panel of seasoned professionals from the technical field, evaluating contestants on safety, efficiency, machine knowledge, and the ability to deliver a perfect espresso. ​Qahwa World

The event will run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offering attendees not only the thrill of competition but also opportunities to engage with cutting-edge espresso technology and network with industry professionals.​

For more information and updates on future editions of the Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition, visit www.nuovasimonelli.com or follow @nuovasimonelliofficial on Instagram.

Nestlé and Rivals Ease U.S. Price Hikes as Shoppers Turn to Cheaper Alternatives

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Major global consumer goods companies, including Nestlé and Unilever, are slowing down price increases in the United States to avoid losing market share to more affordable private-label brands, as rising tariffs and economic uncertainty strain American household budgets.

Nestlé, the world’s largest food and beverage company and maker of Nescafé and KitKat, announced it had cut prices by 1% in its largest market — the U.S. — citing weakened consumer confidence. “Political and economic decisions have undermined already soft consumer sentiment,” said Laurent Freixe, Nestlé CEO, during an earnings call on Thursday.

Unilever, the producer of Dove soap and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, also reported restrained price increases in North America — raising prices by just 2.1%, compared to more aggressive hikes in other regions.

Retailers like Walmart and Target are rapidly expanding their private-label offerings, which are generally priced lower than national brands. According to data from NielsenIQ, prices for private-label products rose by around 4% in Q1 2025, compared to just 2% for big-brand goods — yet private labels remained at least $1 cheaper on average across categories such as coffee, soap, and baby food.

This shift is worrying investors, as private-label brands are now growing four times faster than their branded counterparts in the U.S., according to consulting firm McKinsey. A recent survey found that 60% of consumers plan to adjust their shopping habits by switching to cheaper products or shopping at wholesale clubs and online retailers.

“There’s a large percentage of people who will just move to private label,” said Rob Holston, Global Consumer Products Leader at EY. “Many of our clients say they’re on a ‘war-footing’ with private brands now.”

Adding to the pressure, recent tariff increases imposed by President Donald Trump on several trading partners have raised concerns about a potential recession. Rising commodity prices and utility costs are further squeezing household spending.

Trump met with executives from Walmart and Target earlier this week to discuss the impact of tariffs on their imports, while analysts warned that the pricing power of big brands may be approaching its limit.

Consumer goods giants have responded cautiously. Reckitt, the maker of Durex condoms, increased prices by just 0.9% in North America in Q1, compared to 3% in Europe and 3.9% in emerging markets.

Despite their global scale, Nestlé and Unilever are seeing continued market share losses in the U.S.. Nestlé has seen declining store share for 18 consecutive quarters, particularly in frozen foods and coffee creamers. Unilever has similarly lost share in all but two of those quarters, according to data analyzed by Barclays.

Retailers are also stepping up innovation, with some private brands outperforming major labels in product development. “Retailers are now matching or even surpassing multinationals in terms of brand capabilities,” said Aftab Hussain, senior partner at BCG.

As pricing wars intensify and consumer loyalty wanes, companies like Nestlé and Unilever face growing challenges to defend their U.S. market presence. “There are fewer and fewer hiding places for investors,” said Tom Lemaigre, portfolio manager at Janus Henderson. “Consumer companies need to rethink their strategies to keep up.”

Ethiopia’s Coffee Exports Reach Record $1.5 Billion in Just Nine Months

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Ethiopia has set a new benchmark in its coffee industry, earning over $1.5 billion in export revenue within the first nine months of the current Ethiopian fiscal year — a record-breaking performance that exceeds all previous annual figures.

The announcement was made by H.E. Dr. Adugna Debela, Director General of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority, during a press conference on April 15. According to Dr. Debela, Ethiopia exported 299,607 tons of coffee between July and March, achieving 148% of its planned export target of 201,959 tons.

In revenue terms, the country generated $1.508 billion, surpassing its projected income of $1.094 billion by 38%. This marks a 72% increase in volume and an 81% increase in revenue compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year.

Leading Export Markets

Dr. Debela revealed the top destinations for Ethiopian coffee exports during this period:

  • Saudi Arabia imported 53,844 tons (18%) and contributed $250 million (21%) in revenue.

  • Germany followed with 51,107 tons (17%), generating $232.5 million (20%).

  • The United States received 23,344 tons (8%), valued at $152.2 million (13%).

Other key markets included Belgium, China, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Italy, and Jordan.

Strategic Reforms Behind the Growth

The surge in export performance is attributed to a combination of strategic government reforms, improved productivity, and a strong focus on quality control and market diversification. The Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority has implemented measures to support farmers, modernize processing facilities, and promote Ethiopian coffee globally.

“Ethiopia is not just meeting targets — we are redefining them,” Dr. Debela stated. “Our reforms are producing tangible results, and Ethiopian coffee is gaining greater recognition and market share worldwide.”

Looking Ahead: $2 Billion Target

Building on this momentum, Ethiopia has set its sights on reaching $2 billion in coffee export revenue by the end of the fiscal year. This goal involves exporting more than 400,000 tons of coffee — an increase of over 100,000 tons in the final three months of the year.

Ethiopia, widely recognized as the birthplace of Arabica coffee, currently exports to 84 countries, reinforcing its status as a global coffee powerhouse.