Category: News

Amsterdam, July 30, 2025 (Qahwa World) – JDE Peet’s, one of the world’s largest coffee and tea companies, has announced its financial results for the first half of 2025, showcasing robust growth across key performance indicators. The company recorded strong organic sales, solid profitability, and healthy free cash flow—despite continued volatility in green coffee prices.

🔹 Highlights for H1 2025

• Organic Sales Growth: +22.5% (driven by +21.5% price and +1.0% volume/mix)

• Reported Sales: €5,045 million (up 19.8%)

• Organic Adjusted Gross Profit: +2.2% to €1,665 million

• Reported Gross Profit: €1,537 million (down 8.7%)

• Organic Adjusted EBIT: €709 million (up 2.0%)

• Operating Profit: €402 million (down 40.2%)

• Free Cash Flow: €565 million

• Net Leverage: 2.5x

• Underlying EPS: €1.33 (up 75.0%)

• Reported EPS: €0.86 (up 16.2%)

• Share Buyback: 38% of €250 million program completed

🔹 CEO Statement: Relevance Amidst Volatility

Rafa Oliveira, CEO of JDE Peet’s, expressed satisfaction with the company’s performance:

“We are very pleased with our business and financial results in the first half of 2025. Our performance was broad-based and strong across top-line, profitability, and cash flow, despite operating in a challenging environment marked by persistently high green coffee prices.”

Oliveira highlighted recent product innovations—including Peet’s Popping Pearls, L’OR Coconut Iced Espresso, Jacobs Dubai Chocolate, and Moccona Liquid Espresso sachets—as key drivers for consumer engagement and market expansion.

🔹 Operational Restructuring and Strategic Progress

In line with its 2025 transformation goals, JDE Peet’s initiated several strategic changes:

• Divested its tea business in Turkey to Efor Holding.

• Halted the rollout of the L’OR Barista machine in the U.S.

• Transferred the U.S. L’OR capsules business to Peet’s.

• Announced the planned closure of the Banbury factory in the U.K.

• Simplified its European model by reducing country clusters and centralizing finance operations under a Global Business Services framework.

These changes are part of the company’s focus on streamlining operations, enhancing resource allocation, and unlocking future growth.

🔹 New Strategy: “Reignite the Amazing”

Unveiled on July 1 at its Capital Markets Day, JDE Peet’s launched a bold new strategy—“Reignite the Amazing.” This brand-led framework focuses on three pillars:

1. Peet’s (North American specialty leader)

2. L’OR (global premium espresso brand)

3. Ten local icons, with Jacobs at the forefront

The company aims to:

• Simplify its portfolio and operational model

• Drive €500 million in cost savings by end-2027

• Reinvest 50% of these savings into growth and innovation

• Expand global reach via high-potential opportunities

🔹 Green Coffee Price Inflation

Green coffee prices surged by over 60% year-on-year during the first half of 2025, with easing in the final two months. JDE Peet’s continues to mitigate these cost pressures through efficiency improvements and selective price adjustments—while maintaining affordability for consumers and supporting sustainability among coffee farmers.

🔹 Share Buyback Update

As of July 25, 2025, the company has completed 38% of its €250 million share repurchase program, on track for full execution by year-end.

🔹 Upgraded 2025 Outlook

Based on first-half performance and expectations for the remainder of the year, JDE Peet’s has raised its full-year 2025 guidance:

• Organic Sales Growth: high-teens (upgraded)

• Adjusted EBIT: at least stable (upgraded)

• Free Cash Flow: ~€1 billion (unchanged)

Seattle, July 30, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Starbucks Corporation (Nasdaq: SBUX) yesterday reported its financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, ending June 29. The results reflect steady progress under the company’s “Back to Starbucks” strategy and mark a pivotal step in what leadership says is a foundation for transformative innovation in 2026.

“We’ve fixed a lot and done the hard work on the hard things to build a strong operating foundation, and based on my experience of turnarounds, we are ahead of schedule,” said Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer.
“In 2026, we’ll unleash a wave of innovation that fuels growth, elevates customer service, and ensures everyone experiences the very best of Starbucks.”

While Starbucks acknowledged that the full financial impact of these improvements is not yet fully reflected in Q3 performance, Niccol said momentum is building — especially in the U.S. market, where partner (employee) engagement is increasing, customer connection scores are rising, and non-Rewards customer transactions have returned to growth.

The company also noted that more U.S. stores are now delivering positive comparable transactions, and shift completion rates reached record highs — evidence, Niccol said, of growing operational strength.

Green Apron Service Model and Store Transformation

A central component of this operational turnaround is Starbucks’ new Green Apron Service model, described as the company’s largest investment ever in customer experience. The model is designed to bring greater speed, craftsmanship, and human connection to every coffeehouse.

It includes:

• Smarter staffing strategies

• Advanced order sequencing systems

• Defined service standards

According to Niccol, the model is already showing results in terms of faster service, stronger sales, and improved customer satisfaction — and will roll out nationwide next month.

Starbucks is also reinvesting in its physical spaces. Niccol said the company is “uplifting coffeehouses” with more seating, warmth, and texture, and building new stores with a 30% lower cost to build, while enhancing the customer experience.

Innovation Plans for 2026

With this new operating foundation in place, Starbucks is preparing to launch a wave of innovation in 2026. The company unveiled several upcoming initiatives, including:

• Protein Cold Foam: A first-of-its-kind modifier delivering 15 grams of protein.

• A bold new 1971 Dark Roast and reimagined artisanal bakery offerings

• Test beverages featuring coconut water, along with gluten-free, high-protein food and customizable energy drinks

• A new Starbucks mobile app, improved Mobile Order & Pay, and an updated Rewards program designed to increase engagement and deepen loyalty.

Over $2 Billion in International Revenue

Starbucks also highlighted international growth as a key contributor to its momentum. For the first time, international revenue exceeded $2 billion in the quarter. Notably, comparable sales in China — a vital growth market — turned positive, while expansion efforts are continuing in Canada, the U.K., Mexico, Türkiye, and other global markets.

Financial Notes and EPS Impact

Chief Financial Officer Cathy Smith confirmed that Starbucks made a one-time investment in its Leadership Experience 2025 initiative and recorded a discrete tax expense during the quarter, which collectively reduced earnings per share (EPS) by $0.11.

“We are making tangible progress in our ‘Back to Starbucks’ strategy,” Smith said.
“We are focused on growing back better and delivering durable, sustainable long-term growth.”

Full GAAP and non-GAAP reconciliations are available on the Starbucks Investor Relations site.

Conclusion: A Better Starbucks Ahead

Niccol closed the Q3 earnings presentation by affirming the company’s broader mission:

“We aren’t just getting back to Starbucks — we’re building the best Starbucks yet.”

With foundational improvements in place, a strong pipeline of innovations on the horizon, and global momentum accelerating, Starbucks is positioning itself not just for a recovery — but for a reimagined future.

Moscow, July 30, 2025 (Qahwa World) — Coffee imports from Indonesia to Russia surged nearly tenfold in the first five months of 2025, marking a new all-time high, according to data from Indonesia’s national statistics agency reported by RIA Novosti.

Between January and May, Indonesian companies exported $33.4 million worth of coffee to Russia — a dramatic increase from just $3.4 million during the same period in 2024. This surpassed the previous record set in 2017, when shipments totaled $27 million.

The bulk of the imports consisted of robusta coffee, which accounted for $33 million, while arabica coffee made up only $423,000.

Russia is now among the top 10 importers of Indonesian coffee, ranking ninth. The top three destinations were:

• United States — $159.8 million

• Belgium — $126.9 million

• Egypt — $67.5 million

Meanwhile, arabica prices have been rising sharply. In July, futures jumped over 3.5%, reaching around $3 per pound, following reports that the U.S. is planning to impose 50% tariffs on all Brazilian imports — a move that has raised global supply concerns.

The global coffee market is still recovering from last year’s downturn caused by extreme weather conditions in major producing countries. According to David Oxley, Chief Climate and Commodities Economist at Capital Economics, a return to previous price levels could take several years due to the severe damage inflicted by prolonged droughts in key coffee-growing regions.

Dubai, July 29, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The second edition of the “Taste of China” Global Specialty Green Coffee Bean Competition concluded on Sunday in Shanghai, offering the world a deeper look into the unique and evolving coffee flavor preferences of Chinese consumers.

Organized by Hongqiao International Coffee Harbor, the two-day event featured 82 premium green coffee samples from 16 countries, including established coffee powerhouses like Brazil, Ethiopia, Colombia, and Vietnam, as well as rising origins such as Thailand, El Salvador, Ecuador, and Burundi. China’s domestic producers were also strongly represented, particularly from Yunnan and Hainan.

As China’s coffee industry expands, consumers are developing flavor preferences that differ significantly from those in Western and Southeast Asian markets. While coffee imports have surged, many international producers are still unfamiliar with the specific taste profiles favored in China—a gap this competition seeks to close.

The competition has received ongoing support from embassies, consulates, and specialty coffee associations of major producing nations based in Shanghai. The judging panel included industry leaders from top coffee chains such as Luckin Coffee, Starbucks, and Cotti Coffee, as well as national champions in brewing and cupping, and coffee professionals from across the country.

In a first for the event, the top 10 coffees were auctioned both online and offline, drawing strong interest from roasters, café owners, and buyers across China. Furthermore, the top 30 winning coffees will go on a nationwide cupping tour, visiting major cities and engaging directly with local consumers. The tour will culminate in the announcement of the “Most Popular Coffee Award”, based on public feedback.

The results of the competition offer valuable insight into Chinese consumer trends, providing data that roasters and producers can use to adapt their offerings for better alignment with the domestic market.

Hongqiao International Coffee Harbor has emerged as a leading platform in China’s growing coffee trade. It currently partners with over 200 international coffee enterprises, sources beans from more than 60 countries, and manages trade volumes exceeding 3 billion yuan annually.

With its blend of global collaboration and local insight, the “Taste of China” competition is becoming a key force in shaping the country’s specialty coffee landscape.

Kampala, July 28, 2025 (Qahwa World) — Uganda’s coffee export revenues have more than doubled over the past 12 months, driven by soaring global prices and the long-term results of a national coffee development program. According to the country’s Ministry of Agriculture, Uganda has solidified its position as Africa’s largest coffee exporter, setting new records in both volume and earnings.

Between July 2024 and June 2025, Uganda exported 7.77 million 60-kg bags of coffee, representing a 27% increase compared to the previous year. During the same period, export revenues surged from $1.14 billion to $2.22 billion.

Recent months have shown especially strong performance. In January 2025, the country earned $156.5 million from coffee exports — an 83% increase year-on-year. February saw shipments of more than 555,000 bags, generating $167.7 million, while May exports reached 793,000 bags, with income totaling $244 million, reflecting a 92% jump compared to May 2024.

The most impressive milestone came in June 2025, when Uganda exported 1.01 million bags, earning $289.6 million — the highest monthly revenue in the nation’s coffee trade history.

“High global prices have encouraged farmers to increase their production and expand coffee cultivation areas,” said Martin Maraka, Executive Director of the Uganda Coffee Federation. “This growth trend is now irreversible — we’re just getting started.”

 Long-Term Investment Paying Off

The current momentum is the result of a national program launched more than a decade ago, aimed at scaling up coffee production to 20 million bags annually. As part of this initiative, the government distributed free coffee seedlings to farmers, invested in soil improvement and the rehabilitation of aging trees, and provided training in modern agricultural practices.

Uganda primarily grows Robusta, a variety known for its high yields and climate resilience. With domestic consumption at around 330,000 bags per year, the vast majority of Uganda’s coffee is exported, especially to markets in Europe and Asia.

Global Market Trends Favor Uganda

Uganda’s rise comes at a time when traditional coffee giants like Brazil and Vietnam are grappling with drought and climate disruptions that have slashed their output. This supply gap has driven up global prices and created space for emerging suppliers — and Uganda has stepped up.

With sustained demand and continued government support, experts believe Uganda is on track to meet its export target of 9 million bags during the current marketing season. Maintaining this trajectory will depend on further investment in processing capacity, export infrastructure, quality control, and climate resilience.

For now, Uganda’s coffee sector stands as a leading example of how long-term vision and favorable market conditions can transform an agricultural economy.

New Espresso Machine Combines High Performance, Elegant Design, and Energy Efficiency for Diverse Coffee Businesses

Italy, July 28, 2025 (Qahwa World) — Victoria Arduino, a leading name in professional coffee equipment, has expanded its lineup with the launch of Eagle Tempo, a new espresso machine designed to serve the needs of modern cafés, restaurants, roasters, patisseries, and bakery chains. The new platform is available in two versions: Eagle Tempo NEO and Eagle Tempo Digit, each targeting specific business requirements while maintaining the brand’s signature balance of design, functionality, and sustainability.

According to the manufacturer, Eagle Tempo was created to meet the growing demand for machines that deliver high productivity, consistent cup quality, and reduced energy consumption—without compromising on design.

Two Versions, One Platform

Both the NEO and Digit models share a common platform that prioritizes ease of use, touchscreen control, and milk automation through Easycream technology, enabling up to 9 custom recipes. However, the machines differ in engine type, thermal technology, and target users.

Eagle Tempo NEO: Advanced Control for High-End Operations

The NEO version (New Engine Optimization) is tailored for venues that emphasize precise coffee extraction and in-cup quality. It features multi-boiler technology, allowing baristas to independently adjust the temperature of each group head—a critical feature for cafés offering a wide coffee menu.

Key technical features include:

• NEO multi-boiler system with instant heating and up to 29% energy savings compared to previous models.

• Steam-by-Wire technology, delivering dry steam at 2.1 bar for improved milk texture and faster service.

• T.E.R.S. (Thermal Energy Recovering System), which reduces water heating energy by an additional 8%.

• Touchscreen interface with real-time extraction and milk frothing controls.

• Easycream system, allowing users to program and select from up to nine different milk froth profiles.

With its technical precision and energy efficiency, the NEO model is aimed at specialty cafés, high-end restaurants, and professionals who value fine control and consistency.

Eagle Tempo Digit: Productivity, Simplified

The Digit version is developed for high-volume environments where simplicity and speed are paramount. It uses a single-boiler system with thermosiphon circulation and PID control to deliver reliable steam pressure and stable extraction temperatures across all groups.

Key specifications include:

• Copper boiler with PID pressure stabilization and optional 11-liter or 17-liter capacity (2- or 3-group).

• Unified group temperature with digital control via PID system.

• Touchscreen functionality for quick recipe access and maintenance settings.

• Programmable dosing and customizable milk froth profiles using Easycream.

This model is best suited for large-scale coffee operations such as chains, bakeries, and quick-service restaurants, where consistent quality and rapid service are crucial.

Designed for Today’s Demands

With the Eagle Tempo range, Victoria Arduino continues its commitment to energy-saving innovation and sustainable design. Both versions are equipped to reduce operational costs, adapt to diverse workflows, and maintain the company’s high aesthetic standards.

“The Eagle Tempo represents the evolution of espresso machine design—functional, efficient, and beautiful,” said a spokesperson for Victoria Arduino. “Whether you choose the NEO or Digit version, you’re investing in performance that supports your business goals.”

The launch further cements Victoria Arduino’s presence in the specialty and professional coffee equipment market, offering solutions that align with the industry’s shifting focus toward efficiency, sustainability, and user-friendly technology.

Amsterdam, July 28, 2025 (Qahwa World) — After the overwhelming success of its 10th anniversary edition, which welcomed more than 11,240 visitors, the Amsterdam Coffee Festival (ACF) is set to return to the NDSM-Loods from 16 to 18 April 2026, promising an even more vibrant celebration of specialty coffee culture.

Now in its second decade, the festival has established itself as one of Europe’s leading coffee events — uniting baristas, roasters, coffee lovers, and industry pioneers under one roof to explore innovation, education, and sensory excellence.

Tickets Now Live — Save Big While They Last!

ACF 2026 has officially launched exclusive early bird tickets, with only 1,000 passes available at discounted rates. Whether visitors opt for a single-day pass or a full VIP experience — complete with cocktails, a festival tote bag, and more — flexibility is built in, allowing ticket holders to swap dates or times at no extra cost.

“We’re already brewing fresh ideas for 2026,” organizers announced, “and preparing to turn up the volume on all things coffee.”

What to Expect in 2026

Three full days of caffeinated excitement will include:

• Unlimited Specialty Coffee: Discover new origins, world-class brews, and brewing techniques that define global coffee excellence.

• Latte Art Live: Watch Europe’s top baristas pour stunning designs — or join in and try your hand at mastering the craft.

• Becoming a Roaster: A hands-on experience where participants explore the art and science of coffee roasting.

• The Cupping Exchange: Daily cupping sessions led by green coffee importers and roasters to sharpen sensory skills.

• The Coffee Trail: A curated journey through must-see booths, exclusive product launches, and hidden gems.

📅 Festival Dates & Venue

🗓 16–18 April 2026
📍 NDSM-Loods, NDSM-Plein 85, Amsterdam
🕙 Thursday–Friday: 10:00–17:00 | Saturday: 09:00–18:00

The NDSM-Loods, an industrial-chic venue in the heart of Amsterdam’s cultural district, sets the perfect stage for this high-energy event. It’s easily accessible by bike, public transport, or car.

Ibushaba – July 27, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority convened a high-level internal meeting to evaluate the performance of the national macroeconomic plan and the Authority’s operational plan for the 2025 Ethiopian fiscal year, while also presenting strategic plans for the upcoming 2026 fiscal year.

The meeting was led by Dr. Adugna Debela, Director General of the Authority, who delivered a detailed report highlighting that Ethiopia’s coffee exports generated $2.6 billion in revenue during the last fiscal year — a record figure that exceeded expectations.

Dr. Debela noted that this achievement was publicly recognized by Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, and attributed the success to collective efforts from all levels of leadership and staff across federal, regional, and local levels, as well as stakeholders throughout the coffee value chain — including farmers, exporters, and support organizations.

Global Trade Context and Economic Outlook

The report also addressed global market conditions affecting Ethiopia’s performance. Dr. Debela stated that trade activity in the United States has declined, whereas growth was observed in the Middle East and China.

From 2019 to 2022, global trade expanded steadily, but it began to slow thereafter and stabilized during 2024, according to data presented during the meeting.

The report attributed this slowdown to several key factors:

• Lower global fuel prices

• Rising costs of fertilizer and agricultural inputs

• Decline in consumer purchasing power

Coffee Price Trends and Export Outlook

The report emphasized that the average global price of coffee hovered around $7 per kilogram, with projections suggesting it could reach $8 in 2025, though prices may decline again in 2026.

It was noted that increased U.S. tariffs have negatively impacted Ethiopia’s coffee export growth, while demand in Europe has weakened. In contrast, Asian markets continue to show upward trends in consumption and trade.

Ambitious Targets for 2026 Fiscal Year

Looking ahead, Dr. Debela outlined Ethiopia’s targets for the 2026 fiscal year, which include increasing total national export revenue to $9.4 billion, of which $3 billion is expected from coffee alone.

Key highlights of the plan include:

• Raising coffee export volume from 470,000 metric tons to 600,000 metric tons

• Expanding cultivated coffee farmland from 32 million hectares to 33 million hectares

• Achieving $3 billion in revenue from coffee exports

He emphasized that coffee remains a strategic economic pillar for Ethiopia, on par with gold in national significance. The report urged stakeholders to recognize their shared responsibility in sustaining and advancing the sector’s success.

Agricultural Performance Summary

In addition to coffee, the report revealed that total agricultural export earnings reached $4 billion during the past year, with a goal of $4.7 billion set for the upcoming fiscal year.

Coffee, Tea, and Spice Sector Developments

The Authority confirmed that coffee exports exceeded 470,000 metric tons, generating $2.6 billion in revenue. This marks a significant improvement from previous years. The report also reviewed the performance of tea and spice sectors, which will be further developed as part of Ethiopia’s broader agricultural value chain strategy.

Addis Ababa, July 27, 2025 (Qahwa World) — The Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority, in collaboration with the International Coffee Organization (ICO) and the Inter-African Coffee Organization (IACO), hosted a dedicated African Coffee Statistical Workshop from 26 to 27 July 2025 at the Coffee Training Center in Addis Ababa.

The primary focus of the workshop was to enhance the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of coffee-related statistics from Africa. Special emphasis was placed on submitting monthly, quarterly, and annual statistical reports — including certificates of origin — in accordance with ICO’s rules on data reporting.

High-Level Attendance and Institutional Commitment

The event brought together several senior officials and stakeholders from the coffee sector, including:

• Dr. Vanusia Nogueira, Executive Director of the International Coffee Organization (ICO)

• H.E. Ambassador Solomon Ruthega, Secretary General of the Inter-African Coffee Organization (IACO)

• H.E. Dr. Adugna Debela (PhD), Director General of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority

During the opening ceremony, it was emphasized that this workshop aligns with the implementation of key goals under the International Coffee Agreement (ICA) 2007, as well as the 2024–2025 programme of activities of the ICO and Strategic Objective 3 (SO3) of IACO.

Coffee Statistics: A Strategic Pillar

In his opening address, Dr. Adugna Debela highlighted that accurate and relevant coffee data is essential for informed decision-making across the entire value chain — from farm to cup. He stressed that reliable statistics empower producers, roasters, exporters, retailers, and policymakers to:

• Monitor global trends

• Optimize operations

• Ensure sustainable practices

• Share knowledge and experience across borders

Dr. Debela also noted Ethiopia’s record-high coffee export volumes and foreign currency earnings in recent years. He attributed this achievement to strong cooperation among stakeholders — including support from organizations such as UNIDO, the ICO, and various governmental and non-governmental partners.

Voices from IACO and ICO

Ambassador Solomon Ruthega reaffirmed IACO’s commitment to building stronger African institutional capacity to generate high-quality, standardized coffee data. He emphasized that such data will form the backbone of effective policy decisions, investment strategies, and regional trade frameworks across the African continent.

He also noted that the workshop would directly support IACO’s 2025 work programme by:

• Increasing market transparency

• Advancing continental data harmonization

• Strengthening IACO’s role as the leading African authority on coffee statistics

Dr. Vanusia Nogueira, Executive Director of the ICO, added that the goal of the workshop is to foster cross-country collaboration and to openly discuss shared challenges in the African coffee sector — particularly in the areas of data collection, consistency, and usage.

“Information is not just useful — it is strategic. Reliable data is what drives smart decisions,” she stated.