Category: News

Barn’s, the Saudi Arabian coffee chain owned by Al Amjaad Trading & Manufacturing, is moving forward with its long-anticipated initial public offering (IPO) on the Tadawul Stock Exchange. The company has secured mandates from Goldman Sachs, HSBC, and Saudi Fransi Capital to act as joint financial advisors, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The IPO, slated for the first quarter of 2026, is expected to raise up to $500 million and could value the Jeddah-based brand at approximately $2.5 billion. Proceeds from the offering will be directed toward expanding Barn’s footprint to 1,000 stores by 2030, up from the current count of 900. The company has recently launched new outlets in Dubai, Muscat, and Casablanca, with further expansion planned in Qatar and Jordan by mid-2026.

The announcement comes as Saudi Arabia’s equity markets show signs of recovery. The Tadawul Index has rebounded by 8% since June 2025, buoyed by oil prices stabilizing around $72 per barrel. However, economic headwinds persist, with the International Monetary Fund revising the kingdom’s 2025 GDP growth forecast downward to 2.1%, citing delays in fiscal reforms.

Barn’s IPO would join a mixed lineup of listings on the Saudi market this year. Shares of gym operator Sports Club Co. have gained 15% since their debut, while hospital chain Specialized Medical Co. is trading 9% below its offering price. Analysts note that consumer-facing companies with regional growth potential are attracting stronger investor interest.

“Barn’s regional dominance in the specialty coffee sector, coupled with its clear scalability, makes it an attractive candidate,” said Amal Al-Rashid, equity strategist at Riyad Capital.

In a recent interview, CEO Mohammed Alzain outlined strategic shifts aimed at sustaining post-IPO growth. The company is investing in premium at-home coffee products and AI-powered loyalty programs, which have driven a 40% year-on-year increase in app-based orders. “We’re not just a café chain; we’re building a lifestyle ecosystem,” Alzain said.

Yet the road ahead may not be without obstacles. UAE-based Caribou Coffee is preparing to enter the Saudi market in 2026, while Malaysia’s ZUS Coffee—backed by Kuwait’s Alshaya Group—plans to double its MENA footprint. Global coffee bean prices have also surged by 18% in 2025, adding pressure to profit margins amid ongoing supply chain disruptions.

Investor roadshows are expected to begin in November. As the company prepares to pitch its vision to the market, Barn’s must demonstrate that its blend of Saudi heritage and modern retail strategy can deliver sustainable long-term value.

Coffee markets showed mixed performance Tuesday as arabica prices posted moderate gains while robusta prices declined slightly, amid forecasts of reduced Brazilian production and news that coffee has become America’s most consumed daily beverage.

Arabica Gains on Brazilian Currency Strength

May arabica coffee futures (KCK25) closed up +10.85 cents (+2.96%) to 377.00¢ per pound on Tuesday, supported primarily by strength in the Brazilian real, which rose to a two-week high against the US dollar. The stronger currency discourages export selling from Brazil’s coffee producers, as they receive fewer reals for dollar-denominated sales.

“The currency effect is creating a significant tailwind for arabica prices right now,” said a senior commodities analyst at a major trading firm. “When the real strengthens, Brazilian farmers tend to hold back inventory, tightening available supply.”

Meanwhile, May ICE robusta coffee (RMK25) closed down -22 points (-0.42%), showing divergent performance from its arabica counterpart.

Brazil’s 2025/26 Coffee Output Forecast to Decline

Adding support to arabica prices, two major financial institutions released forecasts Tuesday predicting a significant decline in Brazil’s coffee production for the upcoming crop year.

Following a comprehensive crop tour, Dutch bank Rabobank forecast that Brazil’s coffee output in the 2025/26 cycle would drop 6.4% to 62.8 million 60-kilogram bags, down from 67.1 million bags in the 2024/25 crop.

The decline is not uniform across coffee varieties. Arabica coffee production is expected to fall significantly by 13.6% to around 38 million bags, while robusta coffee is projected to partially offset arabica’s underperformance by growing 7.3% to reach a record 24.7 million bags.

“The dry weather in 2024 significantly affected flowering and, consequently, arabica coffee production,” Rabobank stated in its report. “However, excellent yields are estimated for robusta coffee, despite a pessimistic outlook for the state of Rondonia.”

Bank Itau BBA maintained its coffee production forecast at 64.4 million bags for the 2025/26 cycle, still 3% lower than the Brazilian coffee output of 66.4 million bags for the 2024/25 cycle as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The harvesting of conilon coffee beans (a variety of robusta) for the 2025/26 crop has already begun in some areas of Brazil’s Espirito Santo and Bahia states, according to the Cooabriel cooperative.

Weather Concerns Persist

Weather conditions continue to be a significant factor affecting coffee yields. Somar Meteorologia reported that Brazil’s biggest arabica coffee growing area of Minas Gerais received 17.9 mm of rain in the week ended April 12, or 89% of the historical average.

Brazil has been facing the driest weather since 1981, according to the natural disaster monitoring center Cemaden, raising concerns about long-term damage to coffee trees during the critical flowering stage.

Vietnam Production Issues Support Robusta

Despite the day’s price decline, robusta coffee has found support from reduced production in Vietnam, the world’s largest robusta producer. Vietnam’s coffee production in the 2023/24 crop year dropped by 20% to 1.472 million metric tons, the smallest crop in four years.

Vietnam’s General Statistics Office reported that 2024 Vietnam coffee exports fell 17.1% year-over-year to 1.35 million metric tons. Additionally, the Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association recently cut its 2024/25 Vietnam coffee production estimate to 26.5 million bags from a December estimate of 28 million bags.

The country’s January-March coffee exports were down 15.3% year-over-year to 495,780 metric tons, further tightening global robusta supplies.

Coffee Becomes America’s Top Daily Beverage

In a significant development for coffee demand, a new report from the National Coffee Association (NCA) released Tuesday shows that coffee has officially become America’s most consumed daily beverage, surpassing bottled water, tea, juice, and soda.

According to the Spring 2025 National Coffee Data Trends (NCDT) study, 66% of American adults now drink coffee every day, up nearly 7% since 2020. The average coffee drinker in the United States consumes three cups each day.

“Coffee holds a unique place in Americans’ daily lives – no other beverage is such a beloved and prominent touchstone,” said Bill Murray, NCA’s president and CEO. “Coffee’s popularity brews big benefits for American coffee drinkers and the entire US economy, and we expect America’s love affair with coffee to continue for many decades to come.”

Specialty coffee is driving much of the growth, with 46% of adults reporting consumption of a specialty brew in the past day, an 18% increase from five years ago. Within the specialty segment, espresso-based beverages rose from 24% of adults in 2020 to 28% in 2025, while non-espresso formats jumped from 12% to 17%.

Traditional coffee consumption remained relatively steady at 42% of adults, compared to 43% in 2020. Overall, specialty drinks now account for 59 of every 100 cups poured, with traditional coffee making up the remaining 41 cups.

Home Brewing Trend Continues

The COVID-19 pandemic appears to have had a lasting impact on coffee consumption habits, with 71% of daily coffee drinkers preparing their brew solely at home in 2025, up from 63% in 2020. Only 16% relied exclusively on out-of-home preparation, while 13% combined home and away consumption.

Grocery stores remain the top retail channel for coffee purchases (40% of daily drinkers), though online buying has doubled over five years, from 7% in 2020 to 14% in 2025. Mass merchandisers (29%) and club stores (10%) also play significant roles, while coffee shops account for 5% of daily purchases.

American households are increasingly investing in coffee equipment. Drip coffee makers remain the most common appliance (62% of households, up from 58% in 2020), followed by single-cup brewers at 42%. Higher-end machines are gaining popularity, with 15% of homes now featuring bean-to-cup systems (versus 10% in 2020) and 12% owning espresso machines.

Market Outlook

The current market dynamics suggest continued price volatility in the short term, with arabica likely to maintain its premium over robusta due to supply concerns. The strengthening Brazilian real could further support arabica prices if the currency trend continues.

The divergence between arabica and robusta production forecasts highlights the growing impact of climate change on coffee cultivation. Arabica, being more sensitive to weather conditions, is showing greater vulnerability to the dry conditions in Brazil. This trend may accelerate the shift toward more robust varieties in some growing regions.

The strong growth in coffee consumption, particularly in the specialty segment, suggests continued robust demand that could support prices despite some supply increases in certain varieties. The shift toward higher-quality coffee consumption may particularly benefit arabica producers in the long term, despite current production challenges.

Luckin Coffee Inc. (OTC: LKNCY), one of China’s fastest-growing coffee chains, has announced it will release its financial results for the first quarter of 2025 ahead of the U.S. market opening on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

The company will also host a conference call on the same day at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time (8:00 p.m. Beijing Time) to discuss the results and engage with investors.

Details on how to join the call, as well as the full earnings release, presentation slides, and an archived webcast, will be available on Luckin Coffee’s Investor Relations website: investor.lkcoffee.com.

About Luckin Coffee

Founded in 2017, Luckin Coffee (OTC: LKNCY) has built a technology-powered retail network aimed at delivering high-quality, convenient, and affordable coffee to customers across China. Through its proprietary digital platforms and rapid expansion, the company continues to shape the future of coffee consumption in one of the world’s largest markets.

JDEP), the world’s leading pure-play coffee and tea company by revenue, today announced the start of its share buyback programme to return up to EUR 250 million to shareholders in 2025, as announced on February 26, 2025.

The programme will start on March 3, 2025 and the maximum duration of the programme is up to the end of 2025, barring unforeseen circumstances.

The main purpose of the programme is to reduce the capital of JDE Peet’s, by cancelling virtually all the ordinary shares acquired through the programme.

A small portion will be used to cover share-based remuneration obligations.

At the current share price, the programme represents a maximum of approximately 13.9 million shares, or 2.8% of total shares outstanding.

The programme will be executed within the limits of relevant laws and regulations, the existing authority granted at JDE Peet’s 2024 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM) on May 30, 2024 and the authority (if granted) by the AGM on June 19, 2025.

The share buyback programme will be executed by an intermediary to allow for share buybacks at its discretion during open and closed periods in compliance with the EU Market Abuse Regulation and within pre-defined execution parameters.

JDE Peet’s will provide regular updates on the progress of the share buyback programme by means of press releases and a dedicated section on JDE Peet’s website for the duration of the programme as appropriate.

Bacha Coffee, the historic Moroccan coffee brand founded in Marrakech in 1910, has inaugurated its first flagship store in Europe on the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris. This three-story destination, spanning 1,500 square meters, marks a significant step in the brand’s international expansion and brings its signature offering of 100% Arabica coffees to the heart of the French capital.

Located at 26 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the new store introduces Parisians to Bacha Coffee’s celebrated selection of over 200 single origin, blended, and flavoured coffees from 35 countries. The boutique combines refined aesthetics with Moroccan heritage, drawing inspiration from the brand’s birthplace, the Dar el Bacha palace, through red ochre tones, cedar wood, and geometric trellises.

On the ground floor, Coffee Masters present a wide array of hand-roasted Arabica beans available as whole, ground, or in elegantly packaged gift boxes. Customers can also purchase coffee accessories and enjoy takeaway options where any of the 200 coffees can be brewed to order, hot or iced, and served with Chantilly cream, raw sugar sticks, and reusable glass straws. A daily selection of sweet and savoury croissants completes the offering.

Above, the flagship houses an elegant coffee room concept across two floors with seating for 100 guests. Five distinct spaces offer all-day dining with coffee-infused cuisine, pastries, and viennoiseries, served with precision and grace using traditional golden gooseneck pots. The setting pays tribute to the ritual of coffee appreciation and the brand’s heritage of service excellence.

This Paris opening follows Bacha Coffee’s rapid growth across Asia and the Middle East, where it currently operates 31 stores in 12 cities including Dubai, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The Paris location reflects the brand’s ambition to establish a presence in all major world capitals by 2030.

“Europe is a cornerstone of our global expansion strategy,” said Taha Bouqdib, President and CEO of Bacha Coffee. “Opening in Paris marks a milestone that blends our heritage with our vision for the future.”

“This is more than a store—it’s a showcase of craftsmanship, culture, and passion,” added Maranda Barnes, Chief Commercial Officer. “We’re proud to bring our Moroccan roots to such an emblematic address in Paris.”

To mark the occasion, Bacha Coffee has partnered with renowned French-Moroccan artist Mehdi Qotbi to release a special edition of its “I Love Paris Coffee.” Only 2,000 numbered pieces are available exclusively at the Paris boutique. The medium roast blend features notes of forest berries and wild nuts, housed in a limited-edition box featuring Qotbi’s calligraphy-inspired art.

The Signature Nomad collection box is both a design and sensory statement, featuring a jewel-like clasp and airtight double-lid. Each piece includes a matching tote bag featuring Qotbi’s artwork, celebrating the harmony of fine coffee and artistic expression.

Founded in 1910 at Dar el Bacha, Bacha Coffee has long been synonymous with tradition and quality. Today, the brand continues to evolve, offering boutique experiences, takeaway concepts, and an online platform serving over 60 countries worldwide.

Just days after reaffirming the scientific foundation of the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) in an interview with Qahwa World, Garfield Kerr, President of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), has announced a new collaboration with the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) to evolve the Q-Grader program.

In the April 6th interview, Kerr described the CVA as a “great leap forward,” grounded in scientific research and developed to bring greater clarity and fairness to how coffee is evaluated across the value chain. “I am very much excited about the CVA, as I am driven by data and empirical hard evidence,” Kerr said, adding that it separates and assigns value to both objective and subjective criteria—an approach he believes serves everyone from producers to consumers.

Speaking directly to potential alignment with CQI’s protocols, Kerr stated, “The global industry is best served by everyone adopting this new approach… I think CQI will be a valuable partner and will eventually adopt the CVA.” That vision now appears to be moving forward, with Kerr confirming the partnership via a public statement:

“I’m excited to announce that we’re working with the Coffee Quality Institute to evolve the Q-Grader program. Come visit us at Coffee Expo in Houston next week to find out more.”

The Q-Grader program, long recognized as a benchmark in assessing Arabica quality, may now be entering a new chapter—infused with the CVA’s data-driven structure, rooted in contemporary sensory science, and more adaptable to different cultures, markets, and quality expressions.

Kerr has previously emphasized the importance of speaking with “one voice” across the industry, and this collaboration may be the first concrete step in bringing greater unity to global coffee evaluation systems. With both organizations at the forefront of specialty coffee development, the move signals a shared commitment to innovation, transparency, and equitable value distribution throughout the supply chain.

Victoria Arduino is embarking on a dedicated North America Experience Tour starting April 29, offering a series of exclusive events designed for coffee professionals and enthusiasts alike. The tour promises an immersive journey into the brand’s latest innovations in espresso machine technology, design, and energy efficiency.

At each stop, participants will have the opportunity to explore the exceptional performance of the Eagle Tempo and E1 Prima EXP espresso machines, the PureBrew+ single brewer, and the full Mythos grinder range. Known for their precision and consistency, these machines embody the core values that have long defined the Victoria Arduino brand: quality, innovation, and elegance.

Each event will feature:

• Brand & Product Introduction – A comprehensive overview of the philosophy and innovation behind Victoria Arduino’s machines.

• Coffee Industry Trends – Insights into emerging trends shaping the future of the coffee industry.

• Hands-On Workshop – An opportunity to work directly with Victoria Arduino machines and learn techniques to optimize extraction.

• Networking Moment – A chance to connect with other professionals in a collaborative and inspiring environment.

Tour Dates & Locations:

• April 29 – New York, Coffee Project

• May 3 – Montreal, Espresso Mali

• May 5 – Chicago, Victoria Arduino Showroom

• May 7 – Pittsburgh, Commonplace Coffee

• May 8 – Charlotte, Trail Blaze Coffee Academy

This tour offers a rare opportunity to experience the heart of Victoria Arduino’s craftsmanship firsthand. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or an aspiring coffee entrepreneur, the North America Experience Tour is a chance to be inspired by technology, driven by design, and connected through coffee.

CBS News has reported that South Florida’s beloved coffee culture may soon be facing higher prices, as proposed tariffs on imported coffee beans threaten to impact both local coffee shops and everyday consumers.

According to CBS Miami’s report, coffee beans sourced from countries like Honduras, Ethiopia, and Nicaragua could be hit with steep tariffs, which would likely result in a rise in costs for businesses and customers alike.

CBS News spoke with Emily Videl, a local coffee drinker who shared her concern about the potential impact: “I drink maybe three cups of coffee a day. I think prices are going to go up, and it’s not going to be good.”

The report highlights the case of Cali Coffee, a rapidly growing chain in South Florida with 11 locations and more on the way. Owner Craig Avera told CBS Miami that his team is closely monitoring the situation and trying to shield customers from higher prices.

“Right now, we haven’t seen any increase,” Avera said. “We’re kind of waiting for the call that we don’t want to hear.”

Avera explained that Cali Coffee is currently sourcing beans from countries that may be affected by the new tariffs. He noted that if tariffs make those imports too expensive, the company might shift to alternative suppliers. “Maybe we can get something equal from Ecuador or another country where the tariffs are lower,” he said.

CBS News also pointed out that coffee isn’t the only concern. Avera mentioned that his business is expecting a shipment of 20 stainless steel prep tables from China, each priced at $3,000. If the tariffs go into effect before the shipment clears customs, those costs could increase significantly.

CBS Miami also interviewed Dr. Albert Williams, head of finance and economics at Nova Southeastern University, who commented on the broader implications of the proposed tariffs.

“Planning is very difficult at this time for small businesses, big businesses, and consumers,” Dr. Williams said, adding that a 90-day pause on the tariffs could offer a chance for the U.S. to negotiate better trade deals.

“If both countries find a win-win solution, the tariff war could ease quickly,” he explained. “But if it turns into a zero-sum game, both sides risk losing.”

Anthology Honey, a premium brand dedicated to the purest and rarest Greek honeys, is officially launching in the UAE, bringing a unique selection of medicinal and gourmet-quality honeys, artisan skincare products enriched with honey as well as ultra-gentle handmade organic olive oil soaps, to the region.

Anthology Honey embodies a deep respect for nature, offering a precious and rare collection sourced from pristine mountain villages and sun-kissed islands. With an ethos rooted in authenticity and sustainability, Anthology Honey is a gift from Gaia and a celebration of the ancient art of harmonious beekeeping.

Alexandra Timotheadi, CEO and Founder of Anthology Honey, explains: “With Anthology Honey, my mission is to introduce to the UAE some of the most exquisite Greek honey varieties, while, in parallel, fostering awareness about the fragility and vital role of the sacred honeybee. After two decades in the corporate world, this is more than a business—it is a passion project that allows me to combine appreciation, education and one of nature’s most precious gifts in a truly meaningful way. In Anthology we believe that our Sacred Elixirs are a true Gift from Gaia”.

Anthology Honey’s exquisite honey collection features four rare varieties, each boasting distinct medicinal properties and gourmet flavours including Evergreen Oak and Sidr Honey (the Elixir of Strength), Mediterranean Blossoms (the Elixir of Beauty), Silver Fir (the Elixir of Rejuvenation) and Vanilla Fir (the Golden Elixir) an exceptionally rare and precious honey with a spectacular, pearlescent and golden hues. It has been awarded a Protected Designation of Origin Status (PDO) because it is only produced in the Grecian Fir (Abies cephalonica) forests of southern Greece.

Each honey is raw, bioactive and unheated, and has undergone rigorous organoleptic and as well as laboratory testing to ensure the highest purity. Sourced from remote Greek regions untouched by urbanization, these honeys reflect a commitment to quality, sustainability, and honest craftsmanship.

“Our honeys are carefully selected not only for their remarkable medicinal properties but also for their exquisite gourmet flavours. We source them exclusively from remote, untouched regions, reflecting Greece’s pristine nature and ancient beekeeping traditions. The unique microclimate and rich biodiversity of the Eastern Mediterranean create some magnificent honey varieties—which is why we have named them the Sacred Elixirs of Greece,” adds Alexandra.

Anthology Honey also introduces a range of ethical beauty products including the Sacred Balms and handmade Organic Olive Oil Soaps. Crafted with authentic and the finest local ingredients, these luxurious products are free from artificial preservatives, chemicals, and skin irritants. They are crafted by artisans on the Greek island of Mytilene, the island of eleven million olive trees.

The sacred balms—enriched with honey, propolis, and botanical extracts—work as versatile beauty and skin nourishment treatments for men and women, while the cold-extraction soaps feature organic extra virgin olive oil, honey, goat milk, and herbal infusions, making them gentle for all skin types from infants to adults. We have also developed a very effective, natural balm to soothe and alleviate skin conditions, such as eczema and very dry skin.

Anthology Honey’s UAE launch will shortly include an exclusive e-shop and pop up collaborations with select premium retailers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and to introduce the region to the experience of rare Greek honey, the brand will host a series of honey-tasting events at high-end venues. These immersive experiences will allow guests to savour the nuances of each variety while learning about the rich heritage of beekeeping and the benefits of pure honey. Anthology Honey is not just about indulgence—it is a rare and authentic tribute to nature’s finest treasures for all honey connoisseurs and people, who can appreciate the finer things in life.

Experience the magic of pure, rare and indulgent honeys and ethical beauty rituals of Anthology Honey. Customers can order Anthology Honey via their Instagram @anthologyhoney, and will shortly be able to order through the official e-shop or at selected premium retailers.

For more information and upcoming event details, please follow the buzz on their Instagram @anthologyhoney.

About Anthology Honey:
Anthology Honey is a premium brand offering rare, medicinal-grade Greek honeys, ethical and pure skincare products as well as artisanal olive oil and honey soaps. Sourced from pristine Greek landscapes and handcrafted with sustainable ingredients, Anthology is dedicated to purity and authenticity. Each jar of honey is a gift from Gaia, embodying the magic of nature and the richness of ancient beekeeping traditions. With a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, Anthology Honey seeks to bring an unparalleled experience of wellness, indulgence and mindfulness to honey lovers around the world.

 

Southwest Airlines has been sued by a Utah couple after their 4-year-old son suffered second-degree burns when a flight attendant allegedly spilled boiling coffee on him during a flight from Orlando to Salt Lake City in September 2024.

The parents, Ryan and Kamrie Wong, filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, alleging negligence and emotional distress. According to the complaint, a flight attendant carrying a drink tray extended a cup of hot coffee over the child and spilled it onto his body, causing the boy to cry out in pain, screaming, “It’s so hot!”

The Wongs claim the airline staff failed to offer an apology or provide proper medical attention during the flight. Although paramedics met the family during a layover in Chicago, the complaint states that a Southwest gate agent exacerbated the boy’s injuries by forcing him to sit directly on the burn area. The family further alleged that crew members on their return flight to Salt Lake City offered no assistance.

As a result of the incident, the child reportedly suffers from ongoing pain, scarring, and psychological effects, including embarrassment at school and difficulty sitting for extended periods.

The Wongs’ attorney, Mark Lindquist, criticized the airline’s response, stating, “Airlines need to do better.”

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for negligence. Southwest Airlines has not yet issued a comment on the case.

This incident is not isolated. Lindquist is also representing a Washington state woman in a separate case against Delta Air Lines, claiming similar injuries from a coffee spill. That lawsuit, filed last September, is still pending.

The Southwest case is filed under Wong et al v. Southwest Airlines Co, Case No. 25-04116.