Category: News

Following a successful 2023 run, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has unveiled the much-anticipated Educator Summit 2024 Series with an impressive lineup of events across Asia. Set to take place this December, these events will be hosted in Jeungpyeong, South Korea; Bangkok, Thailand; and Yilan, Taiwan, and will focus on providing coffee educators with an enriched learning experience that explores innovative teaching, coffee science, and the coffee value chain.

This global series, tailored for coffee educators and professionals, combines lectures, workshops, and collaborative learning to support educators in refining their training techniques. Each summit is a day-long experience that brings together esteemed industry professionals who will share their insights through hands-on activities and discussions, allowing participants to acquire actionable knowledge for enhancing their coffee education programs.

Event Details

• Jeungpyeong, Korea
  • Date: December 3, 2024
  • Host: Purple Land
  • Registration: Now Open
• Bangkok, Thailand
  • Date: December 8, 2024
  • Host: Barista Association of Thailand, Srinakharinwirot University
  • Registration: Now Open
• Yilan, Taiwan
  • Date: December 10, 2024
  • Host: Mr. Brown, Kavalan Single Malt Whisky Distilleries
  • Registration: Opening Soon

These Asia-based summits follow the recent USA editions in Philadelphia and Houston, marking SCA’s commitment to advancing coffee education globally.

Program Highlights

Participants can expect sessions on a range of key topics tailored to equip educators with advanced tools and strategies for effective coffee training. Some of the highlights include:

• Water Chemistry in Coffee
  Speaker: Brady Butler
  Understanding water chemistry is fundamental to coffee brewing. Butler will offer practical approaches to teach this complex subject, emphasizing sensory-based activities that simplify water composition analysis for learners.
• Coffee Value Assessment
  Speaker: Shaun Ong
  Trainers will explore the SCA’s Coffee Value Assessment tool with Ong, delving into the Affective Assessment—a segment that adds an emotional dimension to coffee tasting. Educators will learn strategies to help students approach this subjective aspect with confidence.
• Complex History of Coffee
  Speaker: Laurel Carmichael
  This session invites educators to critically examine the history of coffee, moving beyond myths and into verified historical accounts. Carmichael will guide participants in dissecting coffee’s global journey and its socio-economic impact through the ages, inspiring a fact-based and inclusive teaching approach.
• Effective Use of Training Materials
  Speaker: Ben Helt
  In this interactive segment, Helt will showcase techniques for using visual aids and interactive materials, enhancing educators’ connection with their students and optimizing the learning process.

A Community of Knowledge

The Educator Summit is not merely an educational experience; it is a platform for coffee educators from different regions to connect, collaborate, and inspire each other. By attending, participants join a community of professionals dedicated to elevating coffee education standards and fostering a deep understanding of coffee’s intricacies.

Registration is currently open for the Korea and Thailand events, with the Taiwan registration expected shortly.

The International Coffee Organization (ICO) marked a historic milestone at the G7 Development Ministers’ Meeting in Pescara, Italy, from October 22-24, where global leaders endorsed the new Global Coffee Sustainability and Resilience Fund. This public-private initiative aims to drive sustainable growth and resilience across the coffee value chain through innovative finance solutions and strategic investment, catering specifically to the diverse needs of coffee-producing nations.

Hosted at Pescara’s Aurum center, the meeting featured a dedicated session on coffee chaired by Italy’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Antonio Tajani, and attended by G7 leaders, partner countries, and key private sector representatives. ICO Executive Director Dr. Vanúsia Nogueira emphasized coffee’s crucial role in global social and economic development, highlighting the Fund’s focus on addressing climate change, deforestation, and value distribution challenges within the coffee industry.

The Global Coffee Sustainability and Resilience Fund, a collaborative effort between the ICO, Italian G7 Presidency, and industry stakeholders, is designed to support smallholder farmers, women, and youth, particularly across Africa and vulnerable regions. Dr. Nogueira noted that this initiative aligns with the need for investment in research, technology, and infrastructure to enhance productivity, quality, and sustainability in coffee-producing countries.

In a promising step for the Fund’s future, ICO representatives also held bilateral meetings with international organizations, including FAO and UNIDO, to discuss shared goals for the coffee sector and potential areas of collaboration.

With Canada taking on the G7 Presidency in 2025, the ICO remains committed to maintaining progress in establishing this transformative fund, which sets the foundation for a resilient, sustainable coffee future.

For more details, refer to the official communiqué from the G7 Development Ministers’ Meeting.

About the ICO:
The International Coffee Organization (ICO) is a leading intergovernmental body dedicated to advancing sustainability in the coffee sector, offering vital industry statistics, fostering partnerships, and supporting technical projects. For further information, visit icocoffee.org.

Dubai is set to host a major event for coffee aficionados, professionals, and industry pioneers as GulfHost 2024 gears up to offer a truly immersive experience through its Coffee Experience Lab. Running from November 5th to 7th at the Dubai World Trade Centre’s Za’abeel Hall, this event will bring together some of the most influential figures in the coffee world, providing an unrivaled platform for learning, networking, and exploring the latest trends in coffee production, brewing, and business.

The Coffee Experience Lab, a key highlight of the GulfHost exhibition, aims to deepen participants’ understanding of coffee’s rich heritage and future prospects. The event will feature a diverse program that promises to take attendees on a journey through the vibrant and evolving world of coffee across regions such as Ethiopia, Vietnam, Italy, Türkiye, and Mexico.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Coffee Experts

A host of renowned coffee professionals will lead the sessions, including Sarah Aradi, owner of Al Habasha Restaurant & Café, and Medina Ilyassova, founder of Medina Coffee. Industry stalwarts like Matt Toogood, co-founder and CEO of RAW Coffee, and Antonio Nurri, CEO of Nurri Espresso, will also contribute their insights. This star-studded lineup of coffee specialists and business leaders is expected to offer attendees a deep dive into both the technical and cultural aspects of coffee.

Among the highlights will be the participation of Rasam Adabi, Head of Training & Quality Control at Coffee Market Innovations, who will provide invaluable tips on quality control and trends in coffee extraction methods. Other industry figures, such as Jerry Flores, Beverage Manager at Café Bateel, and David Barraza, Commercial Manager at Juan Valdez, will lead live demonstrations and workshops, ensuring that attendees walk away with actionable insights to enhance their craft and operations.

Exploring the Culture Behind Every Brew

This three-day event will be packed with masterclasses and interactive demonstrations that emphasize the importance of understanding the traditions behind each coffee cup. From espresso-making sessions inspired by Italy’s Neapolitan coffee culture to discussions on the significance of Arabic coffee, participants will uncover the hidden stories that shape coffee cultures worldwide.

Greek and Turkish coffee traditions will also be in the spotlight, with workshops designed to educate participants on the preparation, history, and significance of these cultural staples. The diversity of coffee cultures represented promises a rich experience for attendees, with each session delivering insights into different brewing techniques, coffee-making philosophies, and regional flavors.

Practical Skills and Future Trends

Coffee enthusiasts and professionals will have the chance to perfect their technical skills in workshops that cover a wide range of topics, including latte art, milk frothing, roasting techniques, and espresso machine mastery. Participants will also be updated on the latest technologies in the coffee industry, learning how innovations such as freeze-dried coffee production and sustainable practices are reshaping the market.

Experts like Matteo D’Ottavio, Coffee Consultant, and Cenk Girginol, Coffee Consultant & Gastronomy Author, will offer live demonstrations on advanced brewing techniques, while Ginny Tan, Category Manager at ADNOC Distribution, will highlight the importance of operational strategies that enhance both efficiency and quality in coffee businesses.

A Growing Coffee Industry

With coffee consumption on the rise and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) coffee industry projected to be worth over USD 15.26 billion by 2030, GulfHost 2024’s Coffee Experience Lab arrives at a critical time for the region’s coffee professionals. As the industry booms, this event offers a timely opportunity for café owners, baristas, and coffee business leaders to expand their knowledge and refine their skills, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the coffee revolution.

By attending, participants will also gain insights from key industry players such as Sitaram Napit, Co-Founder and CEO of The Ore Coffee, and Stavros Lamprinidis, a renowned barista and bartending consultant, who will demonstrate the importance of sustainability and innovation in today’s competitive coffee market.

GulfHost 2024’s Coffee Experience Lab promises to be a landmark event for coffee professionals looking to enrich their expertise and stay ahead in an ever-changing industry. Through workshops, live demonstrations, and masterclasses led by coffee legends, attendees will have the opportunity to elevate their craft and build valuable connections within the global coffee community.

For those passionate about coffee, this is a must-attend event that goes beyond the beans—delving into the stories, techniques, and trends that make coffee one of the world’s most beloved beverages.

The G7 announced the launch of a global innovative initiative aimed at ensuring the sustainability and resilience of the coffee supply chain, starting with five leading countries in Africa: Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Malawi, with plans to expand the initiative to Central America and Asia in the future.

This announcement was made by Gerardo Pataconi, Head of Operations at the International Coffee Organization (ICO), during a press conference on the sidelines of the G7 Development Meeting in Pescara.

Pataconi noted that this initiative is the first of its kind where the G7 countries and their partners focus on a specific sector, namely coffee. He explained that the initiative has been thoroughly studied during previous G7 meetings, including the G7 Leaders Summit in Borgo Egnazia, reflecting the growing recognition of the importance of investing in this vital sector to ensure its sustainability.

Pataconi expressed concern about the increasing impact of climate change on coffee production, warning that the price of a cup of coffee could reach $100 if immediate action is not taken to protect coffee farms. He added: “About 5 to 6 million coffee producers live below the poverty line, and this initiative aims to coordinate efforts between the G7 countries to support the sector through the creation of a global public-private funding fund.”

Pataconi also emphasized that this initiative has received significant support from leading companies in Italy, noting that the Italian financing plan, which is part of the “Mattei Plan,” will initially focus on Africa, with ambitions to expand investments globally. He concluded by stating that the final phase of the initiative will involve cooperation with UN agencies and other international organizations to implement sustainable solutions in the targeted countries.

The Qatari capital, Doha, is gearing up to host the Qatar World Coffee Expo 2025, scheduled to take place from January 23 to 25 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). The Expo, organized by the Qatar Specialty Coffee Association (QATSCA), is a key event that brings together coffee professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Following the great success of the first edition in Doha, the Expo is set to welcome an international audience of more than 12,000 visitors and 340 exhibitors.

According to the organizers, the second edition has rapidly grown in both size and importance, establishing itself as a leading platform for the global specialty coffee community. The event will feature a dynamic display of innovation, education, and coffee commerce, including prominent areas like the “Roasters Village,” the “Brew & Espresso Bar,” and “Cupping Rooms.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest trends in coffee sourcing, roasting, brewing, and distribution, with a particular focus on premium and artisanal coffee. The Expo will also feature educational lectures, training programs, and competitions such as the Qatar Coffee Championships under the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), which aim to inspire and elevate the expertise of coffee professionals.

The Qatari coffee market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% between 2024 and 2030, driven by changing consumer preferences, increased competition from global brands, and the rise of café culture among affluent youth. With the global coffee industry’s attention focused on Qatar, this event is set to further boost the country’s position as an emerging coffee hub in the Middle East.

For exhibitors, the Expo offers a variety of packages, including spaces in the “Roasters Village” and “Cupping Rooms,” along with sponsorship opportunities. As the number of cafés, specialty coffee shops, and roasters continues to grow in Qatar, the Qatar World Coffee Expo 2025 will be a vital platform for networking and learning for industry professionals looking to engage in this thriving market.

Shamal, a diversified investment firm based in Dubai, has acquired a majority stake in the renowned specialty coffee brand, The Espresso Lab. Founded by Emirati entrepreneur Ibrahim Al Mallouhi, The Espresso Lab has established itself as a leader in the specialty coffee industry, celebrated for its exceptional sourcing, roasting, and delivery of premium coffee.

Since its inception in 2015, The Espresso Lab has built a reputation for offering rare, hand-picked coffee lots from the world’s finest farmers and producers. Known for its meticulous approach to coffee craftsmanship, the brand serves both direct customers through its physical and online stores, as well as wholesale clients. The Espresso Lab operates retail outlets at its roastery in Al Quoz, Dubai Design District, and Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi, becoming a favorite destination for coffee connoisseurs in the UAE.

Shamal’s strategic investment is set to boost The Espresso Lab’s expansion plans, enhancing its retail presence across the UAE and increasing its production capacity. This partnership reflects Shamal’s commitment to supporting and growing exceptional local brands.

Commenting on the acquisition, Abdulla Binhabtoor, CEO of Shamal, said, “We invest in brands that embody Dubai’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to excellence. The Espresso Lab perfectly aligns with these values, and we are confident that this partnership will lead to significant growth and a stronger market position.”

Ibrahim Al Mallouhi will continue to lead the brand through its next phase of growth. “This partnership with Shamal is a testament to our success and reputation,” said Al Mallouhi. “We are thrilled to expand our offerings and bring the world’s finest coffee experiences to more coffee enthusiasts.”

The investment by Shamal signals an exciting future for The Espresso Lab, positioning it for further success in the specialty coffee market across the UAE and beyond.

Dubai is preparing to host the fourth edition of the “World of Coffee – Dubai” exhibition from February 10 to 12, 2025, organized by “DXB Live,” the specialized event organizing arm at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This event, the largest of its kind in the region, will feature participants from over 120 countries to exchange knowledge and innovations in the coffee industry.

In collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association, the exhibition will be held across a 20,000-square-meter space, a 33% increase from last year, allowing more exhibitors to showcase the latest technologies and trends in the world of coffee. The exhibition aims to provide a comprehensive platform that brings together farmers, traders, manufacturers, distributors, café owners, coffee experts, and coffee enthusiasts from around the world.

In this context, Yiannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association, highlighted that Dubai’s unique strategic location strengthens its position as a global trading hub, making it the ideal environment for coffee business growth. He added, “We are excited to see the fourth edition, which will be the largest and most impactful so far.”

Khaled Al Hammadi, Senior Vice President of “DXB Live,” stated that the exhibition plays a significant role in supporting Dubai’s growth as a key center for the specialty coffee industry. He also emphasized the thriving future of this sector in the emirate, which offers great opportunities for both local and international companies looking to expand their coffee businesses.

The exhibition will feature a series of specialized workshops and lectures, along with competitions and championships that award the most creative participants in design and innovation. Highlighted events include the “Roasters Village,” the “Cupping Room,” and the “Brew Bar.”

This edition comes as the value of the coffee market in the Middle East and North Africa is expected to reach $11.5 billion by 2025, further underscoring the importance of coffee as a strategic global commodity.

The International Coffee Convention (ICC) kicked off today in Mannheim, Germany, under the theme “Coffee in Transition,” bringing together some of the brightest minds in the global coffee industry. The two-day event, running from October 17–18, 2024, is set to explore critical trends shaping the future of coffee, addressing sustainability, technological advancements, and the ever-present challenges posed by climate change.

In her opening speech, Dr. Vanúsia Nogueira, Executive Director of the International Coffee Organization (ICO), emphasized the importance of collaboration within the coffee sector. She highlighted that the ICC aims to bring stakeholders from all corners of the coffee world—farmers, roasters, traders, and coffee machine manufacturers—together to find real, science-based solutions to the industry’s most pressing challenges.

Coffee in Transition: A Deep Dive Into the Industry’s Future

The convention features a dynamic program, touching on a wide range of topics that are central to coffee’s future. Discussions include the cultivation of lesser-known coffee species, such as Robusta, Stenophylla, and Racemosa, and how these species can be integrated within the framework of the Nagoya Protocol to ensure sustainable use of genetic resources.

Another key focus is on innovations in coffee farming systems, where experts are examining policies to prevent deforestation and exploring cutting-edge fermentation and processing technologies.

The Role of Science in Coffee Sustainability

One of the most anticipated sessions is the satellite workshop co-hosted by the ICO, the Global Crop Diversity Trust, the Coffee Consulate, and Dr. Christophe Montagnon of RD2Vision. This exclusive, invitation-only session will dive deep into the application of the Nagoya Protocol in coffee, with particular focus on the conservation and sustainable use of coffee genetic resources.

Discussions during the workshop aim to address the ambiguity in the current rules and to develop guidelines that will help governments and industry players safeguard the future of coffee.

Exploring Health Benefits and Sustainable Business Practices

Another key session at the convention will focus on coffee and health, where leading scientists will present research on coffee’s nutritional benefits and its role in promoting health. Additionally, participants will explore the business side of coffee, delving into innovations in roasting, preparation, and the evolving café culture.

The event will also shed light on the sustainable utilization of coffee by-products, a topic that has gained significant momentum in recent years. Experts will address both the challenges and opportunities in turning coffee waste into valuable resources, paving the way for a greener, more circular coffee economy.

Shaping the Future of Coffee

With the world rapidly changing, the coffee industry must adapt to the effects of climate change, shifting consumer habits, and advances in digitalization. The ICC provides a platform for researchers, practitioners, and industry leaders to present the latest findings and offer practical solutions that can be implemented across the coffee value chain.

As the convention progresses, participants and attendees are encouraged to submit abstracts for the chance to publish their research in a special issue of the MDPI Biology and Life Sciences Forum and compete for the prestigious Kaldi Awards.

This gathering in Mannheim is more than just an event—it’s a pivotal moment for the global coffee industry as it grapples with the challenges and opportunities of an uncertain future. By fostering collaboration and driving innovation, the ICC is shaping a sustainable path forward for coffee lovers worldwide.

Coffee enthusiasts and industry professionals, get ready for the largest coffee trade show in the Middle East! Early bird tickets for the highly anticipated World of Coffee 2025 in Dubai are officially available. The event is scheduled to take place from February 10 to 12, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The event promises to be a premier gathering for coffee lovers, industry experts, and businesses looking to showcase their brands. Visitors will have the opportunity to connect with exhibitors, make new business connections, and explore the latest innovations in the coffee industry.

Ticket Options and Pricing:

• Single Day Pass:
  • Early Bird Package (valid until January 19, 2025):
    • SCA Member: AED 75
    • Visitor: AED 80
  • Normal Package (valid until February 09, 2025):
    • SCA Member & Visitor: AED 100
  • Onsite Package (valid from February 10 to 12, 2025):
    • SCA Member & Visitor: AED 125
• 3-Day Pass:
  • Early Bird Package (valid until January 19, 2025):
    • SCA Member: AED 200
    • Visitor: AED 220
  • Normal Package (valid until February 09, 2025):
    • SCA Member & Visitor: AED 255
  • Onsite Package (valid from February 10 to 12, 2025):
    • SCA Member & Visitor: AED 300

All prices are inclusive of VAT.

For exhibitors, this is the perfect opportunity to put your brand in the spotlight, make new connections, and close deals. For more details and to secure your spot, head to the official World of Coffee Dubai website.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event! Secure your tickets today and mark your calendars for an unforgettable coffee experience in Dubai.