Tag: coffee

Speciality Coffee Association’s Effort to Ensure Fairness in Coffee Industry

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The Speciality Coffee Association (SCA) has unveiled its latest report, the Equitable Value Distribution (EVD) Survey Findings, aiming to promote fair distribution of value throughout the coffee supply chain for sustainability.

Initiated in April 2023, the survey involved stakeholders across the coffee supply chain to assess how value is generated and assessed in coffee value chains.

The report delves into how these survey outcomes will shape the SCA‘s strategies, offering insights into how the industry perceives value distribution and identifying necessary changes.

Andres Montenegro, SCA Sustainability Director, underscores the report’s importance, highlighting the potential for enhancing value creation and acknowledging producers for their contributions to coffee’s value.

A significant portion of respondents expressed the belief that current value distribution methods need adjustment, particularly in ensuring that producers receive a fair share relative to the value they generate.

Montenegro reaffirms the SCA’s dedication to deepening understanding and taking actionable steps towards fair value distribution. Collaborating with the Coffee Science Foundation, they seek funding and research partnerships to develop strategies for the specialty coffee community to innovate in this area.

International Coffee Organization (ICO) Offers Exciting Internship Opportunities for Students

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LONDON, March 16, 2024(QW) – Are you a student seeking invaluable experience in the realm of international affairs and economic development? The International Coffee Organization (ICO) presents an exceptional chance to dive into the world of coffee trade and development through its Internship Programme.

Why ICO Internship? The ICO Internship Programme provides students with a unique insight into the daily operations of an international organization. Interns collaborate on a myriad of topics including statistical analysis, communication, advocacy, event management, research, and project formulation.

Who Can Apply? Applicants must be enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, final-year Bachelor’s students, or recent graduates within one year of completing their degree. Proficiency in English and preferably one of the other official ICO languages (French, Portuguese, Spanish) is required.

What Does the Internship Offer? Interns have the opportunity to work closely with ICO experts, engage in high-level discussions with government and industry representatives, and contribute to the organization’s mission of promoting a sustainable coffee sector. The internship duration typically ranges from two to six months and can be extended up to nine months.

How to Apply? Interested candidates should submit a brief CV and Cover Note to [email protected]. The Cover Note should outline the applicant’s degree program, graduation date, internship interest, preferred duration, areas of interest, IT skills, and past work experience (if any).

Join the ICO Community! ICO is dedicated to strengthening the global coffee sector and promoting sustainable growth for the betterment of all participants. Embrace this opportunity to make a tangible impact and advance your career in the exciting world of international coffee trade and development.

Apply now and embark on a rewarding journey with ICO!

For more information, visit ICO Internship Programme.

(Note: The ICO Internship Programme is a volunteer activity and does not offer financial compensation.)

About International Coffee Organization (ICO) The ICO is the principal intergovernmental organization for coffee, uniting exporting and importing governments to address challenges in the global coffee sector through international cooperation. Its member governments represent 98% of world coffee production and 83% of world consumption.

New Report by World Coffee Research on Seed Quality Assurance in Latin America

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World Coffee Research (WCR) has recently released a comprehensive report focusing on seed quality assurance in the coffee sector, shedding light on opportunities to enhance the industry’s resilience.

The report delves into the status of seed lots across five key Latin American countries—El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Peru—providing valuable insights for enhancing cleanup efforts, renovation strategies, and infrastructure development.

The absence of a formal coffee seed sector poses a significant, yet often overlooked, challenge for the global coffee industry. WCR’s technical report offers a detailed analysis of seed sources in the aforementioned countries, emphasizing the critical need for establishing robust infrastructure to ensure the availability and accessibility of genetically conforming and high-quality planting material for farmers.

Dr. Vern Long, CEO of WCR, emphasizes the importance of improved varieties in supporting successful coffee production and securing the industry’s supply chain. He highlights the strides made by partners in addressing quality assurance issues, which ultimately empower farmers to plant coffee trees with confidence, ensuring long-term performance and productivity.

The report underscores the diverse pathways through which farmers acquire planting material, ranging from informal exchanges to purchasing seedlings from local nurseries. However, the quality of these materials often falls short due to a lack of phytosanitary standards and genetic conformity, leading to diminished yields over the lifespan of coffee trees.

Informal propagation practices, such as seed selection based on perceived performance, contribute to genetic variability and unreliable plant characteristics. Moreover, discrepancies between expected and actual varieties further exacerbate productivity and profitability challenges for farmers.

A formalized seed sector would provide farmers with verified, high-quality planting material, thereby bolstering their economic viability. By facilitating access to higher-yielding and market-compliant coffee trees, such infrastructure holds the potential to uplift farming communities and enhance industry sustainability.

Opportunities and Challenges in Latin America:

Latin America’s reliance on smallholder coffee production underscores the need for tailored solutions to address regional nuances. While some countries boast specialized research programs, others struggle with regulatory frameworks and genetic contamination risks, necessitating concerted efforts to fortify the seed sector.

Under the USDA-funded MOCCA program, WCR conducted assessments across 52 seed plantations, evaluating genetic conformity and supporting cleanup efforts. The resulting report provides valuable insights into local seed lot practices, identifies promising seed sources, and informs strategies for enhancing nursery operations in the region.

 

 

Specialty Coffee Association Unveils Groundbreaking Membership Model in 2024

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In a bold move to match the exponential growth of the specialty coffee industry, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is set to launch its most ambitious membership overhaul in decades this year. Dubbed as a game-changer, the new model promises to redefine connectivity, accessibility, and value within the global coffee community.

Under the revamped structure, members can anticipate a tailored experience like never before. The SCA’s innovative platform will offer personalized pathways, catering to the unique needs of each individual or company. Whether it’s accessing cutting-edge research, educational resources, or forging connections with like-minded professionals, the new membership promises to elevate the coffee experience.

Embracing inclusivity, the SCA introduces two distinct membership tiers. The associate membership, a complimentary offering, opens doors for enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in SCA events, education, and competitions. Meanwhile, the professional membership, priced at an accessible $100, offers enhanced benefits including voting eligibility and promotional advantages.

Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the SCA, emphasizes the organization’s commitment to fostering a thriving, sustainable, and equitable coffee ecosystem. “It’s not just about expansion; it’s about evolution. We envision a future where every coffee enthusiast, from bean to cup, can access the tools, research, and resources to enhance their craft,” Apostolopoulos stated.

Scheduled for release later this year, the SCA’s groundbreaking model promises to reshape the landscape of specialty coffee. For current members seeking clarification or newcomers eager to join the movement, inquiries are encouraged to reach out. Get ready to savor a new era of coffee culture with the Specialty Coffee Association.

Does the shape of the cup affect the flavor of the coffee?

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While we often delve into various factors affecting the taste of coffee, such as grind size or temperature, the role of the drinking vessel itself remains largely unexplored.

Recent research suggests that cup shape significantly influences our coffee-drinking experience, impacting our perception of sweetness, acidity, and overall enjoyment. Dr. Fabiana Carvalho’s 2018 study indicated that the shape of the cup could affect how we perceive the flavors of coffee, building upon earlier research highlighting the importance of cup weight, texture, and shape.

In an industry dedicated to maintaining quality and consistency, understanding how different cup shapes affect flavor perception becomes imperative. Prominent figures in the coffee world, like Nordic roaster Tim Wendelboe and the 2023 World Barista Championship winner, have begun to explore and apply these findings in their practices.

Coffee comprises a complex array of aromatic compounds, contributing to its diverse flavors and aromas. These flavors are detected through both nasal and oral pathways, creating a multisensory experience. While traditional taste categories like bitter, sweet, sour, and salty have been recognized, the perception of complex coffee flavors extends beyond these.

Research has shown that the shape of drinking vessels can impact flavor perception, similar to the effects seen in wine and beer. Dr. Carvalho’s study emphasizes the role of cup shape as an “extrinsic cue” in flavor perception, suggesting that it influences our sensory experiences beyond just taste and aroma.

Dr. Carvalho’s study involved participants tasting the same coffee from different-shaped cups, revealing significant variations in aroma, sweetness, acidity, and overall enjoyment. These findings underscore the importance of designing cups that optimize the consumer experience and match individual taste preferences.

In the real world, coffee professionals like Daniele Ricci and Tim Wendelboe have embraced these findings. Ricci incorporated specially designed cups into his competition routine, aiming to enhance judges’ perception of coffee flavors. Wendelboe collaborated with a designer to create cups tailored to highlight the unique characteristics of different coffees, offering customers a more nuanced drinking experience.

While not all coffee establishments may adopt this approach due to logistical challenges, some, like Wendelboe’s, have successfully integrated it into their service. Matching cups with coffees based on their flavor profiles allows baristas to enhance customers’ experiences and highlight the diverse range of flavors in specialty coffee.

As coffee enthusiasts continue to explore the impact of cup shapes on flavor perception, there’s an opportunity for innovation and experimentation. While scientific research provides valuable insights, coffee service remains an art form, inviting baristas and café owners to explore new possibilities and elevate the customer experience.

The influence of cup shapes on coffee flavor perception is a fascinating area of study that offers insights into our sensory experiences. While the practice of using different-shaped cups may currently be more prevalent in competitions and high-end establishments, there’s potential for wider adoption as the coffee industry continues to evolve. By embracing research-backed findings and fostering creativity, coffee professionals can enhance the enjoyment and appreciation of specialty coffee for enthusiasts worldwide.

Savoring Success: A Chat with Ajit Tamang, UAE National Cup Tasters Champion 2024

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Dubai,12 March 2024 (QW): – In the intricate world of coffee, where flavors dance delicately on the palate, Ajit Tamang stands as a testament to passion, perseverance, and proficiency. From his humble beginnings as a barista in Costa Coffee to his current role as Quality Control at Refill Roastery, Ajit’s journey reflects dedication and a thirst for excellence. Recently crowned as the UAE National Cup Tasters Champion 2024, Ajit shares insights into his remarkable journey, preparation strategies, and aspirations for the future. Join us as we delve into the aromatic world of coffee with Ajit Tamang.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey into the world of coffee?

Hi it’s me Ajit Tamang Cup Taster Champion 2024. I have been in the coffee industry for around 7 years.I started my journey in the coffee industry from 25th July 2017 when I first came to the U.A.E as a barista in Costa Coffee.I worked with costa coffee for 2 years which helped me to grow as a commercial Cafe barista.But I wanted to grow more in specialty coffee as well so I decided to move. I got a chance to work in one of the well-known cafes in Alain but unfortunately, they could not provide me a visa even after working for 6 months so I had to look for another company again. So from one of my friends, I came to know that Refill Roastery was hiring a junior barista. I thought if I want to grow in specialty coffee, why not work in a specialty roastery itself? so, I asked his help to forward my CV to Refill and I was able to be hired as a Junior Barista. In the 4 years experience in Refill Roastery I was promoted to Senior Barista, Branch in Charge & now I am working as Quality Control

How did you feel when you first learned that you secured the 1st place in the UAE National Cup Tasters Competition?

I was astonished when I secured first place in the Cup taster Championship. I could not believe myself if I was hallucinating or was it real?

Can you walk us through your preparation process leading up to the competition?

Since my job is Quality Control, I used to check calibration in our cafe outlets daily and do cupping for the green beans our company used to receive as samples & Profiles which are having issues, try different types of coffees in different brewing methods. I think this helped me to train my palate.

Were there any specific challenges you faced during the competition, and how did you overcome them?

First of all, the Championship itself is a challenge but if you want to know a specific challenge for me. It was to make my timing shorter. As you noticed my timing was 5:05 in the first round, 3:10 in the semifinal & 2:57 in the final.

What are the key techniques you employed during the cup-tasting competition to distinguish flavors?

There are no key techniques specific but maintaining focus on the cup & following your instinct & guts as fast as possible
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How has your team at Refill Roastery supported you throughout this journey?

Yeah Refill is supporting me always not just only in this competition but has always been supporting. Refill Roastery or to be specific our C.E.O & C.O.O are too supportive to help us grow personally & professionally.

Is there a particular coffee that holds a special place in your heart, and why?

The memorable Coffee in my career so far is Ethiopia Shakiso as this was the first coffee I drank for my V60 and changed my mind & perception of coffee.

The coffee that holds a special place in my heart is Kenya Sangalai AB. This particular coffee was not expensive but still the clarity & sweetness of this coffee with the classic tasting notes was amazing.

What advice do you have for aspiring baristas who may want to participate in competitions like the Cup Tasters Competition?

The advice I would like to give to baristas or anyone who is willing to participate in any type of competitions is to have self confidence in yourself & do not forget you will be competing with the people who have more knowledge, experience & skills.

How important is continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends for a barista?

It is important to do continuous learning and keeping updated if you do not want to be left out. Because the coffee industry keeps on growing each & every day it is another competition to be updated.

What are your future goals in the world of coffee and barista competitions?

My future goal is to open up a Coffee Academy back in my home country that can provide updated knowledge & skills to the people who are willing to grow their career in the coffee industry.

How does it feel to be recognized as the UAE National Cup Tasters Champion, and how do you plan to celebrate this achievement?

Of course I feel very happy to be known as UAE National cup tasters Champion. I am planning to celebrate this achievement by getting Drivers license.

Are there any upcoming events or competitions that you are looking forward to participating in?

Yeah I am looking forward to the world stage but before that let’s hope I can get a US visa.

 

“Ralph’s Coffee” makes its debut in the UAE coffee market through Dubai

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Dubai,9March 2024(QW):- The luxurious and contemporary coffee chain, “Ralph’s Coffee,” has officially entered the United Arab Emirates market through Dubai, with the opening of its first branch in the Mall of the Emirates. This branch is the result of a partnership between “Ralph’s Coffee” and the Al Moajil Hospitality group, which was signed in June of last year (2023).

Situated next to “Polo Ralph Lauren,” this new café marks the third branch of “Ralph’s Coffee” in the Middle East, alongside other locations in Doha, Qatar. The brand has ambitious plans for expansion in the region, with the first café in Saudi Arabia expected to open in the first half of this year (2024) in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District.

It’s worth mentioning that “Ralph’s Coffee” started serving coffee in August 2014 on the second floor of “Polo Ralph Lauren” store in New York. Since then, they have expanded globally, operating 28 cafes in 12 markets, including the United States, Japan, and China.

Dubai’s dynamic economy and vibrant commercial scene have attracted enthusiasts of specialty coffee. Most specialized reports in this sector highlight that the growth of the specialty coffee market is one of the most significant trends in the region.

Dubai has become a hub for global coffee brands, such as the Japanese “% Arabica,” the British “EL&N,” and the German “The Barn,” alongside popular local brands like “Boon Coffee,” “SHOT,” and “Absolute Zero Café.”

International Coffee Organization: 70% of Coffee Farming Workforce Comprises Women

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The International Coffee Organization (ICO) has revealed that women constitute a significant 70% of the agricultural workforce in coffee-producing countries. The organization calls for the empowerment and enhancement of women’s roles, acknowledging the pivotal contribution women make in the coffee sector.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, the ICO, through its official Instagram account, emphasized the urgency of gender equality and the empowerment of women. It highlighted the global awareness and support for initiatives that uplift women in the coffee industry.

The organization stated, “Women make up to 70% of the agricultural workforce in coffee-producing countries. These statistics include women who independently manage their farms and those who contribute to both paid and unpaid work in family farms and agricultural activities.”

Roles are often divided by gender, with women in families dedicating disproportionately more time to coffee cultivation, harvesting, and processing. In contrast, men focus on less time-consuming activities such as crop storage and marketing.

The ICO pointed out that, out of the estimated 25 million coffee producers worldwide, 5 million are women, underscoring the significant impact women have on the coffee supply chain and the importance of recognizing their contributions.

“Approximately 20%-30% of coffee farms are managed by women. Despite their vital role, the lack of land tenure security poses challenges, leading to difficulties in accessing financing for female entrepreneurs. Social, cultural, and institutional traditions, alongside land inheritance systems, are common formal and informal barriers hindering gender equality in the agro-industrial sector.”

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the ICO urged individuals, organizations, and communities to participate actively in sharing these facts and supporting initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women in the coffee industry. By supporting women in coffee-producing regions, we can contribute to making the global coffee sector more inclusive and sustainable.

Yemeniyat: From Roastery to Boutique, Crafting the Finest Yemeni Coffee

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Dubai,5 Marach 2024(QW): – In an enchanting coffee narrative, we delve into the tale of “Yemeniyat Boutique” in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. Initially, the name led me to believe it might be the brainchild of a group of Yemeni women, but a captivating revelation awaited. “Yemeniyat” emerged as a meticulously curated assortment of coffee, roasted at the “Runa” roastery in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

This roastery boasted a diverse array of coffee, encompassing Yemeni, Ethiopian, Brazilian, and other variants, a tradition that continues at the Al-Runa Roastery in Jeddah. Muhammad Modhesh, the project’s founder, shared that in 2018, they inaugurated the “Runa” roastery in Jeddah, offering a spectrum of Yemeni and Ethiopian crops. Towards the year-end, product packages were introduced, each bearing the names of the respective countries. These included the “Latinas,” “Ethiopian Women,” and the notable “Yemeniyat” package, featuring approximately 10 varieties of Yemeni coffee crops.

Despite its premium pricing, the “Yemeniyat” package garnered significant popularity due to its exceptional quality. Motivated by this success, the company decided to establish a small boutique in Riyadh in August 2023, exclusively dedicated to showcasing Yemeni coffee, aptly named “Yemeniyat.”

Hassan Al-Darib, the director, emphasized that their objective extends beyond introducing Yemeni coffee to the wider public; it also involves preserving and promoting the rich Yemeni coffee culture. The success of Yemeniyat Boutique has spurred plans for expansion, with the opening of three branches within the Kingdom this year and contemplation of entry into foreign markets, particularly in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Canada.

While Yemeniyat operates as a commercially profitable venture, it carries significant developmental facets by actively supporting Yemeni farmers. The project involves educating them on optimal practices in coffee cultivation and processing to yield superior products. Challenges abound due to the limited farming culture in most Yemeni regions, prompting farmers to rush harvests. Notably, the Haraz region stands out, where farmers have recognized the importance of meticulous crop handling and patience in both harvesting and post-harvest processing.

Modhesh disclosed concerted efforts to boost coffee cultivation in various Yemeni regions, particularly those internationally renowned, such as Yafa, where they planted 200 coffee petals. He stressed the necessity of collaboration, activity, strong awareness, and patience for these initiatives to bear fruit.

Crucially, Modhesh underscored their commitment to inclusivity, stating that Yemeniyat welcomes coffee from all regions in Yemen. The company not only supports all farmers but also acknowledges them by naming crops after them, fostering encouragement and motivation. Presently, their focus lies on coffee processing, offering diverse products like Arabic espresso, drip coffee, and more.

Judges Calibration in the Middle East Elevates Coffee Competitions and Coffee Culture

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In a significant move for the Middle East coffee scene, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) recently conducted a Judges Calibration event. This calibration session aimed to officially certify new SCA judges, a crucial step for maintaining the integrity and high standards of upcoming coffee competitions in the region, including the Barista Championship, Brewers Cup, and Roasting Championships.

Judges must be certified to participate in a World Coffee Championship. WCC Judge Certifications are a two-day test-based certification that takes place around the world throughout the year.

The certification process was overseen by a distinguished certifying body comprising key figures in the global coffee community. The panel included James Draper, the World Judges Coordinator, Katarina Zizalo-Moczydlowska, the SCA Coordinator from Poland, and Lauro Fioretti, an expert in coffee education and part of the Knowledge & Education team at the Simonelli Group, serving as a World Coffee Events (WBC) judge.

Lauro Fioretti, with an impressive 21-year career in the coffee industry, played a pivotal role in ensuring the judges’ calibration met the highest standards. His passion for coffee has not only endured but flourished through extensive hands-on experience, continuous training, and certifications. Fioretti holds the esteemed title of an Authorized SCA Trainer and Certifier for nearly all modules of the Coffee Diploma.

For over a decade, the Simonelli Group has been a steadfast supporter of Barista competitions in the Middle East, marking their inaugural sponsorship back in 2011 in Dubai. Since then, their commitment to the region’s coffee community has only strengthened, with a focus on fostering knowledge, education, and interaction among coffee enthusiasts.

In addition to sponsoring prestigious barista competitions, the Simonelli Group continues to run community events and educational courses. One notable initiative is the upcoming Coffee Value Assessment organized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) at the Victoria Arduino and Nuova Simonelli experience lab in Dubai. This event not only underscores Simonelli’s dedication to promoting excellence in coffee but also highlights their role as a driving force behind advancing coffee culture in the Middle East.

By providing platforms for learning, networking, and skill development, Simonelli Group is shaping a future where coffee culture thrives in the Middle East and beyond.

Specialty Coffee Association Unveils Finalists for the 2024 Sustainability Awards

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Dubai, 02 March 2024(QW) – The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is thrilled to announce the finalists for the highly anticipated 2024 Sustainability Awards.

These awards recognize outstanding achievements in sustainability within the coffee industry and serve as a testament to the dedication of for-profit and non-profit companies that exemplify innovation, collaboration, and positive impact throughout the entire coffee value chain.

The 2024 Sustainability Awards shine a spotlight on those who have not only addressed the significant challenges facing the specialty coffee sector, such as climate change and gender inequality, but have also fostered collaboration across geographies, cultures, and value chain roles. These exemplary companies, organizations, projects, and individuals generously share the lessons they’ve learned, contributing to the advancement of the entire coffee sector.

A meticulous selection process led by a committee comprising SCA staff has resulted in the identification of outstanding finalists in each award category. These finalists have been chosen from a pool of submissions that exceeded all expectations. To ensure impartiality and excellence, previous winners of SCA Sustainability Awards will play a pivotal role in selecting the ultimate winner in each category.

Winners of the 2024 Sustainability Awards will be officially announced on SCA channels in late March 2024. Furthermore, these remarkable achievers will be formally recognized at the upcoming Specialty Coffee Expo in April and the World of Coffee event in Copenhagen this June.

The 2024 Sustainability Awards owe their success to the generous support of TricorBraun Flex, exemplifying a shared commitment to advancing sustainable practices within the coffee industry.

2024 Sustainability Award Finalists:

FOR-PROFIT

  1. REBUILD WOMENS HOPE COOPERATIVE
  2. Black Baza Coffee Co.
  3. Fazenda Três Meninas
  4. Neighbors & Crops
  5. Sancoffee
  6. Amavida Coffee and Trading Company

NON-PROFIT

  1. International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA)
  2. Root Capital
  3. Blockchain Coffee Beans
  4. World Coffee Research
  5. TechnoServe
  6. Community-Led Development Incubator Program by The Chain Collaborative

The Specialty Coffee Association looks forward to revealing the winners and celebrating the industry’s commitment to sustainability. For further updates and information, stay tuned to SCA channels and join us in recognizing these exemplary contributors to the world of coffee.

British café chain Black Sheep opens two branches in Dubai

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London-based Black Sheep Coffee has made a significant foray into the Middle East with the inauguration of two stores in Dubai, in collaboration with local franchisee Al Farran Group. This marks the brand’s debut in the region, as it aims to bring its unique blend of robusta coffee to the dynamic market of Dubai.

The newly opened outlets, located at ACT Towers and Boulevard Plaza Towers, are set to feature Black Sheep Coffee’s complete specialty coffee menu, distinguished by its use of robusta coffee instead of the more common arabica. In addition to its signature robusta brews, the menu will showcase regional products, including the enticing Arabic Latte and a delectable za’atar croissant.

Black Sheep Coffee is wasting no time in its expansion plans, with two more UAE outlets slated to open in the second quarter of 2024 at prominent locations – Dubai Mall and Yas Mall Abu Dhabi.

Gabriel Shohet, Co-CEO of Black Sheep Coffee, expressed his excitement on this historic occasion, stating, “A historic day as we opened our first shops in the UAE, in the heart of downtown Dubai. Thanks to our awesome Emirati customers for such a warm welcome and hats off to Mohamad Al Farran and his incredible team at the Al Farran Group on delivering two flawless openings in one single day. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the Middle East.”

This expansion is part of a broader strategy, as Black Sheep Coffee had previously signed a 30-year franchise agreement with Al Farran Group in May 2023. The ambitious plan involves opening a total of 250 stores across the Middle East within the next 15 years, showcasing the brand’s commitment to establishing a significant presence in the region.

While already operating 80 stores in the UK and one in France, Black Sheep Coffee is set to make its highly anticipated debut in the United States later this year with an outlet in Dallas, Texas.

In a parallel move towards global growth, in December 2023, UK franchise operator Moonglow Trading secured a ‘seven-figure’ funding package. The funding aims to facilitate the opening of four Black Sheep Coffee stores in Cardiff and Oxford, as the chain strategically expands its footprint within the UK market beyond London.

As Black Sheep Coffee continues to make waves internationally, these strategic expansions underscore its commitment to providing coffee enthusiasts worldwide with its distinctive robusta coffee experience.