5THWAVE - The Business of Coffee and Hospitality

The future of beverage innovation

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 15 May 2026 07:58:21 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the fast-moving world of beverage innovation.

Everyone wants to know what the next big beverage trend will be – the next iced matcha, mushroom latte or ube cold foam moment. But true beverage innovation is more than chasing trends. It’s about understanding what consumers value, recognising emerging opportunities, and delivering products in ways that feel relevant, distinctive and authentic to your brand.

So in this episode, we’re asking – how can operators build an innovative beverage programme? Which flavours, formats and signature drinks are genuinely resonating with consumers today? And where will the next wave of inspiration come from?

We're joined by Josh Tarlo, Director of Growth, Origin Coffee, Chi Sum Ngai, Co-Founder, Coffee Project New York, and David Deeley, Marketing Director for Foodservice Europe, Kerry.

Credits music: "Mary Jane" by Arif Raihan in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

What to watch at The London Coffee Festival 2026

World Coffee Portal — Wed, 06 May 2026 15:37:24 +0100

This year’s London Coffee Festival is fast approaching – once again bringing together thousands of coffee professionals and enthusiasts for four days of conversation, innovation, and endless tastings in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic coffee cities.

Since launching in 2011, the festival has become far more than a celebration of coffee culture. It’s a key moment for the industry to connect, spotlight innovation, and stay ahead of the trends shaping coffee’s future.

In this episode we catch up with both new and familiar faces from the festival community to hear what’s capturing their attention this year, how they approach an event of this scale, and why London Coffee Festival remains such an important fixture on the global coffee stage.

We're joined by Ian Bryson, Managing Director, Lincoln & York, Siala Farani-Tomlin, Head of Coffee, Elsewhere Coffee, Sam Warren, Brand Manager, La Savista, Will Hinton, National Sales Manager, BWT water+more, and Corin Camenisch, Global Marketing & Brand Strategy Lead, SumUp.

And if you’re visiting London Coffee Festival this year, be sure to stop by our stand (M12, Upper Ground Floor), say hello and pick up your free copy of 5THWAVE Magazine. This year we’ll be collaborating with The London Coffee Guide to give visitors the chance to get behind the mic and share their extra hot coffee takes!

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Embedding green practices into your business – a conversation with Lisa Lawson, Dear Green Coffee Roasters

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:31:59 +0100

In today’s episode, we're speaking with Lisa Lawson, founder of Scotland’s Dear Green Coffee Roasters.

Lisa started in the coffee industry working alongside Toby Smith in the early days of creating Toby’s Estate in Sydney, and went on to launch Dear Green in Glasgow in 2011, with a mission to bring sustainably sourced coffees to her local community. Since then, Dear Green has become a cornerstone of the Scottish specialty coffee scene – not only producing the Glasgow Coffee Festival, but also setting the benchmark for what a responsible coffee business should look like.

In this inspiring conversation, Lisa shares her philosophy of embedding sustainability into every aspect of her business. She also offers practical advice for greener operations – from measuring and reducing carbon emissions, to investing in renewable energy and working towards zero-to-landfill waste goals.

Credits music: "Dust of a Star" by Daisy Chute in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Where coffee meets fashion – a conversation with Marcus Sanders, Coach

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re exploring the rise of coffee shop concepts within boutique retail spaces, and speaking with Marcus Sanders, Vice President of Global Food and Beverage at luxury fashion brand Coach.

While best known for its designer handbags, Coach launched The Coach Coffee Shop in 2024 as a way to expand the brand beyond traditional retail. The concept has since grown to more than 20 locations globally and is set for rapid expansion.

In this conversation, we unpack the strategic thinking behind retail cafés, driven by shifting consumer behaviour and a growing demand for experiences, not just products. Marcus also shares how coffee can act as a powerful engagement engine, creating deeper brand connections and serving as an accessible entry point for a new generation of luxury consumers.

Credits music: "XO" by Millie Bushell in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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An unlikely journey – a conversation with Trish Rothgeb, Wrecking Ball Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we're speaking with Trish Rothgeb, founder of Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters in San Francisco.

With over 30 years in the coffee industry, Trish was a true pioneer of the West Coast specialty coffee movement in the early 2000s and is widely credited with popularising the term “Third Wave Coffee.”

In this conversation, we explore the evolution of specialty coffee culture and the major shifts in consumer behaviour over the last two decades. Trish also shares why she believes the next meaningful shift must focus on equity across the global supply chain, and why lasting change will only come when economic models work sustainably for producers, not just pleasing consumers.

Subscribe to Trish's Substack and read her article on Third Wave Coffee here

Tune in to Picture Day on YouTube for more coffee adventures with Trish Rothgeb and Jay Lljewski

Credits music: "I'm Fine" by Bobbi Stella in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The impact of deforestation on coffee production

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:15:51 +0000

In today’s episode we’re exploring how climate change and deforestation are impacting global coffee production, with Dr. Aaron Davis, Senior Research Leader for Crops & Global Change at The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew.

Aaron has spent more than three decades researching coffee species and is a leading voice on climate resilience and future-proofing global coffee production.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Aaron unpacks coffee farming’s complex relationship with deforestation and assesses its impact on forest ecosystems. He also highlights the rise of alternative coffee species, and why transparency and unlocking genetic diversity are key to our industry’s long-term survival.

Credits music: "Natures Hands" by Flo Perlin association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Standing out from the crowd – a conversation with Gabriel Shohet, Black Sheep

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we're speaking Gabriel Shohet, Co-founder of of UK coffee trailblazer Black Sheep Coffee.

Founded in 2013 with friend and business partner Eirik Holth, Black Sheep had a bold vision: to champion specialty-grade robusta at a time when the industry was almost entirely focused on arabica. Since then, the brand has achieved remarkable success, scaling to over 130 outlets across five markets and capturing the attention of a new generation of coffee drinkers along the way.

In this conversation, Gabriel reflects on Black Sheep’s philosophy of challenging the status quo and choosing not to blindly follow industry trends. He also shares insight into the brand’s US expansion strategy – targeting Sunbelt states like Texas and Florida over more well-trodden markets such as New York and LA – to show the model resonates with a broader, more inclusive American audience.

Credits music: "Shock Me" by Gina Zo in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Precision and craft – a conversation with the founders of MAME

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Emi Fukahori and Mathieu Theis, Co-founders of Swiss specialty coffee business MAME.

Multiple-time Swiss competition winners, Emi and Mathieu founded MAME in Zurich in 2016, driven by a shared passion for coffee tasting, sensory analysis and competition craft, combined with Japanese precision. Today, they operate eight coffee shops across Zurich and Geneva and, one most recently, Tokyo.

In this conversation, Emi and Mathieu share their guiding principles for tailoring every guest experience and creating memorable coffee moments. They also discuss how they’ve drawn inspiration from Michelin-starred chefs to scale high-quality and maintain a strong brand identity as they grow internationally.

Credits music: "Lay on Grass" by Sam Stokes in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Viennese coffee culture past and present

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we explore Vienna’s fascinating and distinct coffee culture – from the grand 19th-century coffee houses that shaped the city’s intellectual life to the specialty scene redefining coffee today.

What is the lasting legacy of Vienna’s historic coffee houses? How do heritage and modernity coexist in Vienna? And how has specialty coffee carved out its place within the city's deeply rooted café tradition?

We’ll hear from Art Historian Jamie Reurs, Johanna Parker (née Wechselberger), Founder of The Vienna School of Coffee and Philip Feyer Founder, of Jonas Reindl Coffee Roasters.

Credits music: "Miraculous Wonders" by Akeira Jade in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

To The Coffee House by Peter Altenberg
If you have troubles of one sort or another – to the coffee house
She can't come to you for some reason, no matter how plausible – to the coffee house
You have holes in your shoes – the coffee house
You have a salary of 400 crowns and spend 500 – the coffee house
You are frugal and permit yourself nothing – the coffee house
You find no woman who suits you – the coffee house
You hate and disdain people and yet you cannot do without them – go to the coffee house
Nobody extends you any more credit anywhere – the coffee house

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Digital-first chains: The Coffee and Lap – live at The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:16:58 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re sharing two standout conversations recorded live on stage at the European Coffee Symposium last year, featuring Brazil’s The Coffee and Germany’s Lap Coffee – two highly ambitious, scalable brands built for the modern consumer.

First, Frank Maeda, Head of Europe at The Coffee, explores the brand’s rapid global expansion, shaped by Japanese minimalism, high-tech efficiency and a digital-first approach.

Then, Tonalli Arreola, Co-Founder of Lap Coffee, shares how automation and digitisation streamline operations, freeing up baristas to focus on what matters most – the hospitality experience.

Credits music: "Good Morning" by Lua de Morais and Sharon Mor in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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The journey of a lifetime – a conversation with Edwin Harrison, Curious Roo Coffee Roasters

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we welcome back to the studio Edwin Harrison, Co-founder of London’s Artisan and Curious Roo Coffee Roasters.

Founded in 2011 by Edwin and his wife Magda, Artisan is a pioneering and influential voice in London’s specialty coffee scene. Edwin and Magda also run the Artisan Coffee School, where they share their expertise and work to elevate standards across the industry.

In this conversation, Edwin shares the very ambitious project he’s about to undertake with his family: An extraordinary 20,000 kilometre coffee journey over land and sea from London to Perth, Australia, in attempt to break the record for the furthest coffee bag ever delivered by hand.

Follow Edwin and Magda's journey here.

Credits music: "Earth Song" by Zana Messia in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Danish inspiration – Joe + The Juice and Hagen live at The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Today, we’re bringing you two live recordings from last year’s European Coffee Symposium, featuring conversations with Joe & The Juice and Hagen. While both are Danish-inspired concepts, each offers a distinct perspective on growth and the customer experience.

Thomas Nørøxe, CEO of Joe & The Juice, shares how the business has built a high-performance culture rooted in energy, ambition and personal development. He also explains how innovation across the brand is guided by four core pillars: health, experience, convenience and sustainability.

Tim Schroeder, CEO and Founder of boutique specialty coffee chain Hagen, shares his philosophy of building an analogue brand in a digital world and why he prioritises human connection and in-store experiences over a reliance on digital technology.

Credits music: "Heather" by Ayngi in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Innovation, sustainability and independent spirit – a conversation with Assembly Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Today we’re bringing you a special episode in collaboration with the London Coffee Guide and Podcast, and republishing an insightful conversation with Nick Mabey and Michael Cleland, co-founders of London’s Assembly Coffee.

Founded in 2015, Assembly Coffee is an innovative specialty coffee roastery known for its commitment to sustainability and excellence. In this conversation, Nick and Michael discuss what it means to define your own version of success, and how to scale a business with sustainability at its heart.

For more on London’s specialty scene and interviews with the likes of Special Guests, Batch Baby and Hermanos, tune into the London Coffee Podcast.

Credits music: "Soho" by Eirra in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The future of coffee in DACH with Gerd Mueller-Pfeiffer – Recorded live at COHO

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Today we’re bringing you another session recorded live at the European Coffee Symposium + COHO. Taking to the stage is Gerd Müller-Pfeiffer, Founder of International Coffee Consulting.

In this session, Gerd explores the key trends shaping the DACH coffee shop market and how consumers are continuing to trade up and seek premium experiences despite ongoing inflation pressures. He also highlights how the bakery segment has quietly become a critical engine of out-of-home coffee growth across Germany.

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Encore: The rise of specialty coffee in France – a conversation with Christophe Servell, Terres de Café

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

As we take a short break over the New Year period we’re bringing you a couple of our favourite conversations from the past year. We start with Christophe Servell, Founder of Terres de Café - a trailblazing Paris-based specialty roaster and café group.

In this conversation, Christophe discusses the evolution of the specialty coffee landscape in Paris as well as the challenges and future opportunities for coffee across France.

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

An alternative Christmas playlist from The Coffee Music Project 2025

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

As a special Christmas bonus episode we're bringing you a playlist of some of our favourite The Coffee Music Project tracks featured on the podcast this year - including a few special Festive numbers from our talented artists.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all those celebrating. We wish everyone a warm and peaceful end to the year, and a happy start to 2026.

Tracklist:

Attention by Dudley Music
Carolina Gold by DANI
Christmas Time by Erin Bowman
Fly To You by Matt Kent and Daisy Chute
I Wish You Love by Mimi Rose
If You're Wondering by Zana Messia
Not Mine by Alessia Piermarini
Plane Jane by Lexie
Ride with Santa by Natalie Good
Sad Old Baby Dolls by The Misty
Talk About A Movie by Z.M.A
The Weight by Eirra

Thank you to SEB Collective for all your support, creativity and championing of emerging and talented musicians.

Discover more of the artists featured on the podcast by tuning into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Automation, technology and the future of coffee – Panel discussion recorded live at COHO

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we continue the conversation around technology, automation and the future of coffee with an expert panel discussion recorded at the COHO Business Insight Summit.

In this session we're joined by Scott Martin, CEO, Unity Coffee, Miranda Caldwell, Marketing Director, Eversys, and Boris Zwick, CEO, Übermilk, to explore the latest advancements in technology and how automation helps baristas deliver quality and consistency at scale.

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The future of coffee technology with Scott Martin, Unity Coffee – Recorded live at COHO

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

We continue our European Coffee Symposium + COHO series with a keynote from Scott Martin, founder of Unity Coffee and the mastermind behind Coffee Nation and Costa Express.

In this fascinating session, Scott explores the impact of technology and automation on our industry, arguing that robust infrastructure will outlast flashy innovation. He also shares why the future of coffee will not be defined by “human vs. machine” but a seamless combination of both.

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The Head of Coffee Summit – Recorded live at COHO

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:58:18 +0000

Continuing our series of unfiltered discussions from The European Coffee Symposium, we are at the COHO Head of Coffee Summit, led by James Hennebry, Co-founder of Rosslyn Coffee.

James is joined by an exceptional panel of leaders: Agnes Potter, Managing Director, Allpress UK, Josh Brown, Commercial Director. WatchHouse, Julian Weresch, Head of Coffee UK&I, Sodexo and Travis Wilson, Head of Coffee, La Maison.

This candid and inspiring session brought together some of the most experienced minds in specialty coffee to explore what truly moves the dial when scaling a high-quality coffee programme across multiple sites.

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The future of the UK coffee shop market – Panel discussion recorded live at COHO

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:58:08 +0000

Next in our series of unfiltered talks from the European Coffee Symposium + COHO stages, we turn our attention to the future of the UK coffee shop market with a panel of seasoned leaders in specialty coffee.

We’re joined by Marta Pogroszewska, Non-Executive Director, Bread Holdings, Paul Kelly, Global Marketing Director, La Marzocco, and Caroline Ottoy, Managing Director, WatchHouse.

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Growing a specialty coffee chain from Prague to the world – The Miners Live at the European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:57:56 +0000

Next up in our European Coffee Symposium Live series, is a talk from Egor Kolpakov, Founder & CEO of The Miners – an unconventional specialty coffee chain from Prague that’s expanding at remarkable pace across Europe.

In this session, Egor shares his vision to inject the energy of New York’s coffee scene into Eastern Europe, and discusses how The Miners’ fast-paced, movement-driven service model is designed for efficiency, connection and contemporary active lifestyle.

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Opportunities and challenges in the Indian market – Blue Tokai Live at the European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:57:39 +0000

Last month saw the return of the European Coffee Symposium (ECS) + COHO in Berlin. Across three days, we welcomed 50 influential speakers from around the world to share their insights, inspiration, and bold ideas shaping the future of coffee and hospitality.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll bring you a collection of these unfiltered conversations, panel discussions and keynote sessions – direct from the ECS + COHO stages. We start with a talk by Matt Chitharanjan, Co-founder & CEO of Blue Tokai – a coffee shop chain and specialty coffee roastery in India.

In this session, Matt offers sharp insights into India’s rapidly-growing coffee market, highlighting the huge opportunities in an under-served coffee landscape, and the difficulties of balancing growth with profitability.

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Nurturing community and connection with Buunni Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 06:28:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we're joined by Sarina Prabasi, Co-founder of Buunni Coffee – a business of two community-driven cafés and a wholesale roastery based in New York City.

Sarina has had a remarkable journey from her native Nepal via Ethiopia to New York City. She’s also had impressive career in social justice and sustainability, especially in her role as CEO of WaterAid USA.

She founded Buunni Coffee in 2011 with her partner, Elias Gurmu, Their vision was to share exceptional Ethiopian coffee and hospitality with New Yorkers, while creating spaces that nurture connection, community and joy.

In this conversation, Sarina reflects on the realities of starting a business, the immigrant experience, and what it means to build a meaningful community in a new city. We also unpack her memoir, The Coffeehouse Resistance: Brewing Hope in Desperate Times, highlighting how cafés can become places for connection with a deep sense of belonging.

Credits music: "The Weight" by Eirra in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The dos and don’ts of signing a lease

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:47:03 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the dos and don’ts of signing a retail property lease – from due diligence and heads of terms to rent reviews and exit strategies.

We'll speak with a leading broker and two real estate lawyers in London and New York to uncover how operators can navigate the small print, negotiate a fair deal, and protect themselves from personal exposure.

Our guests are Russel Helbling, Managing Director, Katz & Associates, Jason Dunietz, Real Estate Group Chair, Helbraun & Levey, Ian Leigh, Partner, CBG.

Credits music: "Talk About A Movie" by Z.M.A in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The past, present and future of specialty coffee - a conversation with Yannis Apostolopoulos, SCA

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we're delighted to be speaking with Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association.

First established in the 1980s, the SCA is the largest coffee trade body globally and represents thousands of coffee professionals – from producers to baristas – all over the world.

In this conversation, Yannis discusses the evolution of the SCA and its ongoing efforts to make coffee more sustainable, equitable, and resilient, through research, standards, and education. He also shares his perspectives on the key challenges and opportunities in the industry, from climate change and sustainability to navigating economic uncertainty and the evolving role of technology and AI.

Credits music: "I Wish You Love" by Mimi Rose in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Australia as a coffee origin – Part two

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 15:06:07 +0100

Today’s episode is the second instalment in our two-part feature exploring the opportunity for Australian-grown coffee.

In part one, we looked back at the history, commercial viability, and sustainability potential of Australian coffee farming. In this episode, we’re turning our attention to what lies ahead and the developments that are shaping the next chapter for Australian coffee.

We’ll hear from scientist Tobias Kretzschmar about new coffee varietals being developed with Southern Cross University, and David Kennedy, Founder of Bun Coffee about how Australia’s specialty scene is embracing home-grown coffee.

Credits music: "Nothing is Forever" by Australian artist Georgia Mooney in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Australia as a coffee origin – Part one

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0100

Today’s episode is the first in a two-part feature exploring the opportunity and future potential for Australian-grown coffee.

While coffee is typically cultivated in tropical, high-altitude regions, producers in Australia have been able to nurture coffee trees in the country’s subtropical lowlands – where the mild climate and absence of many common coffee diseases offer unique opportunities

In part one, we speak with Rebecca Zentveld, Founder of Zentveld’s Coffee Farm & Roastery in New South Wales. Rebecca also serves as President of the Australian Grown Coffee Association, and in this conversation she explores the history, commercial opportunities, and sustainability potential of Australian coffee farming.

In part two, we’ll hear from Tobias Kretzschmar, a scientist at Southern Cross University, who’s developing new varietals suited to the Australian climate, and David Kennedy from Bun Coffee, to learn how the specialty scene might soon be embracing more home-grown coffee.

Credits music: "War Romance" by Australian artist Georgia Mooney in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The latest advancements grinding technology

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:01:00 +0100

Grinding is one of the most important – yet often overlooked – elements of the coffee-making process. It’s a precise science that directly influences flavour and consistency, and often is the difference between an unforgettable coffee and a mediocre cup.

As consumer tastes and expectations evolve, grinding equipment too is advancing. So what does the future look like for grinding technology – both behind the bar and in the home?

To explore this we’re speaking with Arnaldo Rodrigues, Head of Innovation and Technology, Hemro Group, Marco Tesconi, Group Category Manager, Cimbali Group and Douglas Weber, Founder, Weber Workshop.

Credits music: "I’m Fine" by Bobbi Stella in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The Simonelli Story – a conversation with Marco Feliziani

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we catch up with Marco Feliziani, CEO of iconic Italian coffee equipment manufacturer, Simonelli Group.

Founded in 1936 by Orlando Simonelli, the company grew under the leadership of Marco’s father, who helped drive its early international expansion. Today, Simonelli Group operates in over 135 countries and encompasses three key brands – Nuova Simonelli, Victoria Arduino, and 3Temp.

In this deeply personal conversation, Marco reflects on the values and lessons passed down from his father, and how that legacy continues to shape the business today. He also shares how coffee technology is becoming more intuitive, amplifying barista craft and creativity, and why, in his words, “the future of coffee is being written now."

Credits music: "Not Mine" by Alessia Piermarini in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The future of self-ordering

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re exploring the implications of self-ordering within coffee and hospitality. From QR codes and mobile apps to kiosks and premium vending, the ordering experience is becoming increasingly digital and putting more control into the hands of consumers than ever before.

But what are the business benefits of digital and self-ordering systems? Do customers really spend more when they place the order themselves? And crucially, what does this digital shift mean for the human element of hospitality?

We’ll speak with Mariam French, Marketing Director, Leon, Liam Crooks, Managing Director EMEA, Lightspeed, and Vince Kelders, Group Category Leader Hot Drinks, Selecta.

Credits music: "Bare Minimum" by Daisy Peacock in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Building a legacy – a conversation with Andrew Tolley

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0100

In today's episode we're speaking with influential coffee entrepreneur Andrew Tolley, Managing Director of Tolley Coffee & Tea.

Together with his siblings, Laura and Nick, the Tolleys profoundly shaped London’s early specialty coffee scene with Taylor Street Baristas – a pioneering chain whose legacy and culture can still be felt today. They also established Harris + Hoole, a joint venture with Tesco, now run by The Nero Group.

Today, Andrew is as ever focused on education and serves as Knowledge Curator at the Coffee Knowledge Hub and Vice President of the Specialty Coffee Association.

In this candid conversation, Andrew reflects on his career, the realities and lessons from scaling two specialty coffee businesses, and the enduring legacy of Taylor St. He also shares his vision of the opportunities in coffee as a force for good through innovation, education, and positive social impact.

Credits music: The Weight by EIRRA in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The evolution of at-home coffee in the UK

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 06 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we look at how the UK’s at-home coffee market has transformed over the past few years and how increasingly educated consumers and rising expectations are shaping the future of this dynamic segment.

We'll speak with Howard Gill, Head of Coffee, Grind and Helen Cutmore, Marketing Director UK&I, Delonghi.

Credits music: "Mad" by May Roze in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The iced beverage revolution

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0100

It's no secret that iced beverages have taken the coffee shop world by storm in recent years.

From single-origin cold brews and iced classics becoming year-round staples to TikTok sensations like matcha lattes and botanical infusions, the iced category has rapidly become a core part of how consumers experience coffee.

In this episode we're asking what's been driving this surge in popularity, what flavour innovations are on the horizon, and could “cold” one day overtake “hot” on the global coffee stage?

To find out we're speaking with Jake Leonti, Head of Coffee, Gregorys Coffee, Will Kenney, Commercial Director, 200 Degrees Coffee Roasters, and Peter Broom, Commercial Director for syrup manufacturer Novela.

Credits music: "Summer" by Maddie King in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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A conversation with Romanian coffee visionary, Teodora Pitis, Sloane Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we speak with Teodora Pitis, Owner of Sloane Coffee in Romania.

Inspired by visits to London’s bustling specialty scene, Teodora launched Sloane Coffee in 2016 with a vision to bring that spirit of craft and innovation to Romania’s emerging café market. The business has since grown to a thriving wholesale roastery with two experiential tasting rooms in Bucharest.

In this conversation, Teodora shares her ambition to elevate Romania’s specialty coffee scene within the global coffee community and she reflects on the unique dynamics of this young market that has developed at a remarkable speed.

Credits music: "Trip The Light" by Bluebelle in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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Leading sustainability at origin – a conversation with Benjamin Paz

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 19:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we're speaking with Benjamin Paz – a third-generation coffee producer in Honduras and a leading voice in sustainable coffee farming.

In this conversation, Benjamin shares pragmatic solutions for sustainable coffee production, such as reforesting with native tree species, restoring natural shade canopies and adapting processing methods that save water and work in harmony with local ecosystems.

We also discuss critical labour shortages, the systemic challenges of doing business Honduras, and strategies to ensure a thriving coffee industry for generations to come.

Credits music: "Carolina Gold" by DANI in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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The guiding principles of Tres Marias

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 09:43:07 +0100

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Maria Pavani, CEO and Founder of Tres Marias – an innovative specialty coffee business based in Dubai.

Originally from Brazil, Maria launched Tres Marias in 2019, initially trading green coffee and delivering SCA training courses. When the pandemic hit, she pivoted into coffee roasting and more recently, expanded the brand with a line of plant-based milks designed specifically for baristas.

In this conversation, Maria shares the remarkable transformation of Dubai’s coffee scene over the last decade and how UAE consumers have embraced specialty coffee culture.

She also reflects on the personal journey of becoming an entrepreneur and how learning self-awareness and resilience, combined with relentless innovation, has shaped the way she built her business.

Credits music: "Plane Jane" by Lexie in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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A thought-provoking conversation with Jason Scherr, Think Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 02 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we're speaking with Jason Scherr, Founder and CEO of Think Coffee - a pioneering specialty coffee business based in New York City.

Jason began his career in law before pivoting into hospitality, driven by a desire to build something more creative and community-focused. That vision led to the opening of Think Coffee in 2006 - a coffee business focussed on ethical sourcing and social impact. Nearly two decades on, Think Coffee operates 11 locations across New York and has been roasting in-house since 2017.

In this conversation, Jason reflects on the evolution of New York’s specialty coffee scene post-pandemic, and shares his hope for a return to more in-store, face-to-face coffee connections. He also speaks candidly about the challenges of doing business ethically - and why Think Coffee remains committed to transparency and high standards, even when it’s not the easiest path to take

Credits music: Glimpses by Fox Jackson in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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A blueprint for building a coffee business in the Benelux – live at The Amsterdam Coffee Festival

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0100

Today we’re sharing the final episode in our series of interviews recorded at The Amsterdam Coffee Festival 2025.

In this episode, we speak with industry leaders and entrepreneurs from across the Benelux to find out how they turned a passion for coffee into a thriving business and career.

We’re joined by Jens Crabbe, Owner of MOK Coffee, Joris Goossens, Commercial Director at Keen Coffee and Véronique Heylen, Senior Sales Trader at Sucafina.

Credits music: ""Finance 300" by Kri in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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Why coffee competitions matter – recorded live at The Amsterdam Coffee Festival

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0100

Today we’re sharing another episode from our series of interviews and discussions recorded live at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival earlier this year.

In this session we’re turning the spotlight on coffee competitions, exploring how they drive innovation, elevate barista skills, and help shape the future of our industry.

Joining us is a panel of barista champions, trainers and world class judges: Julia Kuin, Barista Market Development Lead for Benelux at Oatly, Rose van Asten, Coffee Consultant & Specialty Coffee Association Barista Trainer, Lex Wenneker, Owner of Friedhats Coffee, and Zjevaun Janga, Owner of Ripsnorter Coffee Roasters.

Credits music: "If You're Wondering" by Zana Messia in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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A Nordic approach to coffee – in conversation with Andreas Hertzberg

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we're speaking with Andreas Hertzberg, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Nordic Approach – a pioneering green specialty coffee company.

Andreas founded Nordic Approach in 2011 alongside Morten Wennersgaard and Tim Wendelboe, with a vision to work more closely with producers and deliver coffees that reflect the high standards synonymous with the Nordic region.

Today, Nordic Approach sources around two and a half million kilos of green coffee each year, working with thousands of farmers across 12 producing countries.

In this conversation, Andreas reflects on the early days of the business, how the team introduced a disruptive and transparent sourcing model to the market, and why they’ve always chosen to work with farmers who share a commitment to excellence. He also unpacks the complexities of green coffee trading today and why market volatility is often more difficult to navigate than high prices alone.

Credits music: "Midnight Dynamite" by Alessia in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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The rise of smart coffee vending – recorded live at The Amsterdam Coffee Festival

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0100

Today we’re sharing another episode from our series of interviews and discussions recorded live at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival earlier this year.

In this session, we explore the rise of smart coffee vending and how innovation and technology is shaping coffee solutions for the workplace and beyond.

We’ll hear from Willem Huisman, Sales Director at BRITA Professional Benelux, Theo Leene, Managing Director of Powder Products Benelux, Tjerry Sanders, Country Leader Netherlands at Evoca Group, and Joost Leopold, Headmaster and Coffee Consultant at De Koffieschool.

Credits music: "Do you Know" by Steve Ray Ladson in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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Two decades of Mecca Coffee – a conversation with Paul Geshos

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Paul Geshos, founder of Sydney’s iconic Mecca Coffee.

A former musician turned café owner, Paul Geshos opened Mecca in 2005 after being inspired by the emerging specialty coffee scene in Portland, Oregon. Since then, Mecca has grown to become one of Australia’s most respected specialty coffee roasters, with two locations in Sydney and a reputation for transparent sourcing, quality and innovation.

In this conversation, Paul reflects on Mecca’s early years, including the challenge of introducing US-style specialty coffee culture to Australian customers who weren’t quite sure what to make of it. He also shares how being immersed among the global coffee community played a vital role in his development as a roaster and why Mecca is returning to its direct-to-consumer roots.

Credits music: "Not Mine" by Alessia Piermarini in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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The future of coffee marketing – recorded live at The Amsterdam Coffee Festival

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Next up in our series live podcasts recorded at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival, we’re diving into the creative world of coffee marketing.

In this session, we speak with leading coffee brands from across the Benelux to unpack the innovative marketing strategies helping businesses connect with the next generation of consumers.

Joining us are an expert panel of voices from across the region: Rob Berghmans, Founder and Owner of Caffenation, Bryan Serwatka, Coffee Community Manager at Minor Figures, and Yorick Bruins, Co-founder of Wakuli.

Credits music: "Attention" by Dudley Music in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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From niche to necessity: 10 years of specialty coffee in the Benelux – recorded live at The Amsterdam Coffee Festival

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 14 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0100

Today we’re sharing another episode from our series of interviews and discussions recorded live at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival earlier this year.

In this session we reflect on a decade of growth across the Benelux specialty coffee scene and look ahead to what the future holds for this highly passionate community.

We’re joined by a panel of innovators and creators: Esther Maasdam, Co-founder of Manhattan Coffee Roasters, Rose Van Asten, Coffee Consultant and SCA Barista Trainer, and Marc Kluijver, Founder of KTC Magazine.

Credits music: "Could This Be Real" by Aleks In Flux in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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Espresso evolved: A decade of innovation in espresso machines [Recorded Live @ Amsterdam Coffee Festival]

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we’re returning to our series of interviews and discussions recorded live at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival earlier this year.

In this session, we take a look back at the past decade of phenomenal espresso machine innovation to find out how technology and culture has redefined the café experience.

We’re joined by an expert panel: Andrea Zamprogno, Sanremo Johan Van De Bunt, Hillewaert, Anton Mathes, Ligre and Henk Langkemper of Espresso Service West, La Marzocco’s distributor in the Netherlands.

Credits music: "Sad Old Baby Dolls" by The Misty in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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How to run a sustainable restaurant

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 30 May 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re joined by pioneers in sustainable hospitality to explore how restaurants can take meaningful steps towards more environmentally responsible operations.

We speak with Juliane Caillouette-Noble, Managing Director of the Sustainable Restaurant Association, who outlines a practical framework for introducing sustainability into foodservice businesses.

We’re also joined by two leading Michelin Green Star chefs – Chantelle Nicholson, Founder, Apricity in London and Albert Franch Sunyer, Co-founder, Nolla in Helsinki – who share what it really takes to run a sustainable restaurant, from sourcing and circularity to culture and community.

Credits music: "Natures Hands" by Flo Perlin in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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The philosophy behind Platō Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 26 May 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Stephan Bredell, Co-Founder of Platō Coffee – a fast-growing specialty coffee chain based in South Africa.

Launched in December 2019 with his brother Petrus, Platō Coffee began as a single café with a mission to serve high-quality coffee in welcoming, beautifully designed spaces. With a focus on opening sites in local, lifestyle destinations and growing through franchise partnerships, the brand has scaled rapidly in just five years. Platō now has 90 locations across South Africa and international expansion on the horizon.

In this conversation, Stephan shares his ambitions for scaling Platō into a global lifestyle brand. He also outlines how coffee has been a powerful accelerator for growth, guided by his pragmatic learn-by-doing approach.

Credits music: "Lucid Dreaming" by Veigh Malow in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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A vision of transparency – in conversation with Dion Cohen, Single O

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 19 May 2025 07:37:29 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Dion Cohen, Co-founder of Single O – an iconic name in Australian specialty coffee.

Originally known as Single Origin Coffee Roasters, Dion founded the business in 2003 alongside his wife and business partner, Emma Cohen. Their vision was to bring greater transparency to the coffee supply chain while building a brand that was fun, engaging, and unafraid to break the mould.

Since then, Single O has become a pioneer of Australia’s specialty coffee scene and operates cafés in Sydney and Queensland and has a growing presence in Japan.

In this conversation, Dion shares the philosophy behind Single O – one grounded in quality, traceability, and education rather than self-promotion. He also talks about expanding into Japan, and how the brand adapted its bold, irreverent Australian style to resonate with Japan’s more reserved and traditional culture.

Credits music: "What I Used To Do" by Liza Lo in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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Future-proofing your business – a conversation with James Sweeting, Lincoln & York

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 09 May 2025 07:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we're speaking with James Sweeting, Co-founder of Lincoln & York – a highly respected private label coffee roaster based in the North of England.

James founded Lincoln & York with business partner Simon Herring in 1994 and over the past 30 years, the company has grown into one of the UK’s largest independent coffee roasters. With decades of experience under his belt, James brings a sharp business mind and a deep understanding of what it takes to scale and sustain a successful company over time.

In this conversation, James shares why investing ahead of the curve and continually re-investing back into the business has been key to Lincoln & York’s success. He also unpacks the complexities and challenges across the coffee supply chain and the impact of price volatility on the market.

Credits music: "Prisoner" by KAIMA in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

What’s brewing for The London Coffee Festival 2025?

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 02 May 2025 07:15:00 +0100

This year’s London Coffee Festival is right around the corner and with it comes four days of caffeine-fuelled celebration in this city’s ever-evolving coffee scene.

Founded in 2011, The London Coffee Festival is a major event in global industry’s calendar, drawing thousands of coffee professionals, enthusiasts, and innovators from around the world to connect, collaborate, and share their passion for all things coffee.

And so in this episode, we’re catching up with some familiar faces from the festival community to hear their standout impressions of the show, how to get the most out of a trade show, and what they’ve got planned for this year’s event.

We'll speak with Agnes Potter, Managing Director, Allpress UK, Stewart Johnson, Sales Director, Sanremo UK, Chris Farnworth, Founder, Blendsmiths, Frances Booth, Marketing Director, Biscoff UK, Harry George, Founder, Send Coffee, and Lee Hyde, Senior Beverage Expert at Monin.

Credits music: "London’s on Fire" by Daisy Chute in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Beverage trends you need to know [Recorded Live @ Amsterdam Coffee Festival]

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we’re bringing you the first in a series of interviews and discussions recorded live at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival 2025.

Celebrating its 10th year, the festival was buzzing with energy, ideas, and innovation, as industry leaders and entrepreneurs from all across Europe came together for an inspiring celebration of coffee.

In this 5THWAVE live session, we’re diving into the world of alternative beverages and exploring how cafés are expanding their menus to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive market.

We’re joined by four pioneers shaping this space: Merijn Gijsbers, Champion and Brand Ambassador for Alpro, Dennis Durlinger, Brand Manager, Monin, Ahmed Mahla, Head Roaster, Spicekix Coffee Lab, and Vicky Ceulemans, Founder, Bodhi Drinks.

Credits music: "You Would Not Get It" by Frances Willow in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Building access to careers in coffee – a conversation with Eve Wagg, Well Grounded

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Eve Wagg, Founder and CEO of Well Grounded – a UK-based social enterprise supporting unemployed individuals to gain access to meaningful careers in coffee.

Since its inception in 2016, Well Grounded has trained over 1,000 people and delivered more than 15,000 hours of work placements in partnership with leading brands like GAIL’s, WatchHouse, and the Company of Cooks.

In this conversation, Eve reflects on the power of social procurement and how businesses can create lasting change through partnerships. She also shares the positive impact of community-led training programmes, and discusses the importance of leadership development and diverse representation across the industry.

This week's credits track in association with The Coffee Music Project is a track by Jayden Mariano aka MAOUS – a Well Grounded graduate – with his track "Well Grounded"

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The people behind the rise of specialty coffee in France

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0100

With Le Paris Café Festival 2025 happening this week, today we’re concluding our series on the rise of specialty coffee in France.

Over the past four episodes, we’ve heard some incredible stories from industry pioneers and trailblazers across the French specialty coffee scene. In today’s closing episode, we take a step back to reflect on how far the market has come, unpack what’s driving growth today, and explore the trends shaping the future.

We’ll hear from some of the key industry actors helping to shape this exciting new chapter in French coffee – in a country renowned for its rich culinary heritage and traditional café culture.

A huge thank you to all our contributors: Tom Clark, Coutume, Christophe Servell, Terres de Café, Hippolyte Courty, L'Arbre à Café, Mihaela Iordache, Belleville Brûlerie, Laure Jubert, Belco, Line Cosmidis, Falcon Coffees, Alexis Gagnaire, Tanat (ex Kawa) Sandra Bouckenooghe, La Marzocco France, Nicolas Poirot-Crouvezier, Simonelli Group France, Leonardo Azeredo Co-Roasting Community.

Credits music: "Fly to You" by Matt Kent and Daisy Chute in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The rise of specialty coffee in France: Part Four – a conversation with Tom Clark, Coutume

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we continue our series on the rise of specialty coffee in France and speak with Tom Clark, Co-founder and CEO of Coutume.

Originally from Australia, Tom was among the early pioneers of Paris’ specialty coffee movement. While studying in the city, he spotted a clear gap in the market to bring high-quality coffee to French consumers and set up Coutume in 2011. Today, the business operates a thriving roastery and runs 11 locations across the city a growing corporate venue business.

In this conversation, Tom reflects on how consumer attitudes have shifted dramatically over the past decade, including a growing willingness to pay for higher quality. He also shares why he believes France is on track to become one of the top five specialty coffee markets in the world.

Credits music: "You" by Kirsten Izer in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Growing a mission-driven business – a conversation with Yorick Bruins, Wakuli

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0100

Today marks the 10th anniversary of the Amsterdam Coffee Festival – a celebration of the edgy Dutch coffee scene and its passionate coffee community.

This year, we’re thrilled to bring 5THWAVE Live to the Festival, where we’ll be showcasing two days of dynamic discussions with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and coffee innovators. And to whet your appetite, in this episode we’re speaking with Yorick Bruins, Founder of Wakuli – an ambitious new Dutch specialty coffee roaster and operator.

Yorick launched Wakuli in 2019 with a vision to connect coffee farmers directly with consumers and create a fairer, more transparent trading model. Since then, Wakuli has grown rapidly, opening its first outlet in 2022 and now operates 15 locations across the Netherlands.

In this conversation, Yorick discusses the evolution of the Dutch specialty coffee scene and how it has grown in the last five years. He also shares the importance of mission-led growth and how Wakuli is embracing regenerative farming to create lasting impact.

Join 5THWAVE Live at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival: www.amsterdamcoffeefestival.com/Whats-On/5THWAVE-PODCAST

Credits music: "Heather" by AYNGI in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Value-driven leadership – a conversation with Fleur Studd, Market Lane

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Fleur Studd, co-founder of Australia's Market Lane and Melbourne Coffee Merchants.

Established in Melbourne in 2009, Market Lane is a highly-respected specialty roaster and retailer with ten outlets across the city. Since its inception, the company has placed a strong emphasis on responsible business practices, and in 2022 achieved B-Corp certification with an impressive score of 96.8. Fleur is also the founder and director of green coffee importers – Melbourne Coffee Merchants.

In this conversation, Fleur shares how she maintains a values-based approach as her business grows, the importance of building a strong, purpose-driven team and how the influence of mentors has shaped her leadership style.

Credits music: "XO" by Millie Bushell in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The rise of specialty coffee in France: Part Three – a conversation with Mihaela Iordache, Belleville Brûlerie

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we continue our series on the rise of specialty coffee in France and speak with Mihaela Iordache, Head Roaster at Paris’ iconic Belleville Brûlerie.

Founded in 2013, Belleville is a pioneering specialty roaster, known for its high-quality coffees and the staff’s signature Bleu de Travail outfit – the classic French blue workwear jacket that’s become a symbol of their craft.

In this conversation, Mihaela shares how France's coffee community and consumer habits have evolved in recent years, and why it took a little longer for specialty coffee to make its mark in a country famed for its traditional café culture.

Credits music: "Sonata K239" by Domenico Scarlatti played by Ana Maria Iordache, in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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How big is matcha?

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Matcha has seen significant growth in coffee shops in recent years. With its striking green colour, promoted health benefits, and aspirational lifestyle appeal, this Japanese-origin tea has firmly captured the attention of Western consumers.

In this episode we're asking what’s driving this surge in popularity, what’s next for the category, and will there be enough matcha to go around as demand starts to outstrip supply?

To find out, we'll speak with two specialist matcha operators - Zach Mangan, Founder of Kettl in New York and Hiromi Matsunobu, Founder of Matchado in London.

Credits music: Colourblind by Jennifer Lyons in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The rise of specialty coffee in France: Part Two – a conversation with Hippolyte Courty, L' Arbre à Café

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 08 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode we continue our series on the rise of specialty coffee in France and speak with Hippolyte Courty, Founder of L' Arbre à Café.

Established in 2009, L’Arbre à Café is a Paris-based specialty coffee roaster and operator, and a pioneering force in the French specialty coffee scene. With a background in wine and fine gastronomy, Hippolyte has helped to redefine French coffee culture, bringing a next level of craftsmanship and sustainability to the industry.

Catch up on part one here.

Credits music: Trip the Light by BlueBelle in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The rise of specialty coffee in France: Part one – a conversation with Christophe Servell, Terres de Café

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re launching a new deep-dive series in collaboration with 5THWAVE magazine exploring the rise of specialty coffee in France.

Once known for its traditional dark espressos and modest coffee standards, France is undergoing a transformation. All across the country, interest in specialty coffee is exploding, with a growing number of consumers seeking quality and a new wave of artisan roasters emerging to meet demand.

Over the coming months, we’ll speak with industry leaders shaping this movement to examine its evolution, current challenges and future opportunities.

We begin with Christophe Servell, Founder of Terres de Café, a pioneering Paris-based roaster and café group with 12 locations across France, two in South Korea and further plans for international expansion this year.

Credits music: "French Wine" by Laura Gabriela in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Respecting the craft maker – a conversation with Tom Molnar, GAIL’s

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we speak with Tom Molnar, Co-founder and CEO of GAIL’s Artisan Bakery – a highly influential UK-based bakery and coffee chain.

Tom partnered with the eponymous Gail in London in the early 2000s, transforming her wholesale bakery business for chefs into a thriving neighbourhood chain. Today, GAIL’s is a much-loved UK bakery-cafe group with over 150 bakeries nationwide.

In this insightful conversation, Tom shares the parallels between coffee and bread-making and how coffee became a natural extension of the business. He also reflects on the importance of maintaining an artisan mindset, building a community of bakers and baristas, and why staying true to the craft matters more than chasing trends.

Credits music: "Soho" by Eirra in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Coffee on the move

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

As consumer interest in specialty coffee continues to rise, so too does demand beyond the café. Today’s customers expect high-quality coffee to be available wherever they are – whether commuting, travelling or shopping.

In this episode, we explore the businesses redefining coffee service outside the traditional bricks-and-mortar model. From mobile coffee trucks to travel kiosks and small-format retail spaces, these operators are creating compact, high-impact coffee experiences, meeting consumer demand for specialty coffee wherever they are.

We’ll hear from Ant Duckworth, CEO & Founder, Dear Coco, Patrick Byrnes, Head of Operations, FCB Coffee, and Beatriz Ferreira, Co-founder, Swerl Coffee Roasters, to unpack shifting consumer habits and the opportunities emerging in small-format coffee service.

Credits music: "If I Fall" by Christie Huff in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Behind the scenes of success – a conversation with Nicolas O’Connell

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 08 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we're joined by Nicolas O’Connell – an influential coffee and business expert and a former Partner at La Colombe Coffee Roasters.

Nicolas joined La Colombe in the mid-1990s as a barista and quickly rose through the ranks, playing a key role in launching the brand’s pioneering wholesale programme. Though he’s often worked behind the scenes, Nicolas' business acumen and strategic vision were instrumental in transforming La Colombe into the international powerhouse it became.

In this candid conversation, Nicolas shares his insights on how La Colombe maintained its brand authenticity while growing across multiple sales channels. He also highlights the key strategies and partnerships that helped to forge a strong company culture and achieve long-term success.

Credits music: "Natures Hands" by Flo Perlin in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Coffee and Architecture – A conversation with Mark Sciberras, The Common E2

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode we speak with Mark Sciberras, Director of The Common E2 and Common Ground Workshop – an East London café and architecture studio specialising in hospitality and residential design.

Originally from Melbourne, Mark trained as an architect before moving to London in the mid-2000s. Inspired by the city’s emerging specialty coffee scene, he opened The Common E2 in 2014, creating a space that reflects his design philosophy and passion for community.

In this conversation, we explore the synergies between coffee and architecture and how great design can shape the way we interact with spaces, build communities, and create a sense of belonging. Mark also shares his thoughts on the impact of gentrification on East London’s coffee scene and why he advocates for slow, organic growth rather than rapid expansion.

Credits music: "Aurora" by Matt Kent in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Transforming Coffee Waste into High-Value Products – Recorded Live at The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In our final live session from the event, we’re joined by Konstantinos Konstantinopoulos, CEO of Coffee Island, and Alex Pantziaros, founder of Coffeeco Upcycle, to explore their mission of transforming coffee waste into high-value products.

Coffee Island is Greece’s largest coffee chain, with over 450 outlets in Greece and an additional 50 across nine international markets.

Coffeeco Upcycle set up in 2018 with a vision to unlock new opportunities for sustainability in coffee.

In this conversation, Konstantinos and Alex discuss the innovative process of turning coffee waste into exciting new products, as well as the environmental and social benefits that upcycling offers the entire coffee industry.

Credits music: "Nafarios" by Arch Duke in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The quest for exceptional – A conversation with Paul Ross, Special Guests

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode we’re speaking with a very special guest – Paul Ross, founder of Special Guests Coffee, a boundary-pushing specialty coffee business based in the heart of London.

A two-time UK Barista Champion, Paul founded Special Guests in 2022 with a mission to curate rare specialty coffees from around the world and showcase these hidden gems to wider audiences through his coffee venue and online platform.

In this conversation, Paul explains how physical coffee shops play a vital role in fostering community and building a cohesive ecosystem for his business. He also emphasises the importance of carving out a distinct identity by blending personal experience with insights from coffee industry peers.

Credits music: "Miraculous Wonders" by Akeira Jade in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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E-commerce: Coffee at your doorstep

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 18 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today's episode we’re finding out how specialty roasters and distributors are navigating the ever-changing landscape of e-commerce coffee.

In an era where the competition is now global, how do brands stand out from the crowd? How can businesses engage with consumers and build loyal audiences online? And what lies ahead for the burgeoning new coffee discovery segment?

We'll speak with Menno Simons, Founder, Bocca Coffee, Suneal Pabari, Co-founder, The Roasters Pack and Alice Wainwright, Co-founder, Rise Coffee Box.

Get 15% off your first three boxes at Rise Coffee Box with the discount code WAVE15

Credits music: "Soulmate" by Catherine Taylor Dawson in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Major Impact – A conversation with Minor Figures' Stuart Forsyth

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Stuart Forsyth, CEO & Co-founder of distinctive and influential oat milk brand, Minor Figures.

Stuart set up Minor Figures in London back in 2015 with a vision to create an accessible alternative milk brand that complements the taste of coffee and champions our industry. Today, Minor Figures is a leading player in the global oat milk category operating across Europe, Australia, the US and Japan.

In this conversation, Stuart shares the philosophy behind Minor Figures and how he built a business centred on self-discovery through organic growth. He also explains why coffee is a powerful cultural nexus and the perfect conduit for creativity and human connection.

Credits music: Last Chance by Emily Sutherland and ELNO in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Encore: The social entrepreneur – A conversation with Cemal Ezel, Change Please

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

For the second revisit episode of our Holiday break, we’re returning to one of the most inspiring conversations of last year, with Cemal Ezel, Founder of the social enterprise Change Please and Old Spike Roastery.

Cemal’s insight into balancing social impact with commercial success is thought-provoking and powerful. In this extended interview, he shares how Change Please uses a unique business model to tackle homelessness – one cup of coffee at a time.

Cemal also talks about his recent collaboration with Nespresso and reveals exciting plans for global expansion, showcasing how purpose-driven businesses can create real, meaningful change.

Encore: A taste of home - A conversation with the Founders of Maman

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

As we take a short break over Christmas and New Year, we’re re-sharing some of our favourite conversations from the past 12 months.

First up, we’re revisiting an inspiring conversation with Elisa Marshall and Benjamin Sormonte, Founders of Maman – the French-inspired boutique café and bakery chain that began in New York and has since expanded across the US and into Canada.

Since its launch in 2014, Maman has experienced phenomenal growth, now boasting nearly 40 locations across New York, Washington, Florida, and Toronto.

In this conversation, Ben and Elisa reveal the secrets behind their rapid success and share how they’ve built such an impressive and beloved brand in under a decade. The couple also discuss the importance of fostering a sense of ownership within their team, ensuring everyone feels like a valued partner on their growth journey.

An alternative Christmas playlist from The Coffee Music Project – Part Two

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In today's episode we're continuing our tradition of sharing an alternative Christmas playlist to soundtrack your celebrations over the Christmas period!

We love to close each episode with music from up-and-coming artists, in association with The Coffee Music Project. So, today, we’re bringing you a special bonus episode filled with some of the best tracks we’ve featured this year.

So grab a glass of mulled wine, settle into your cosiest spot, and enjoy this hand-picked collection of incredible music. A huge thank you to all the talented artists who’ve shared their music with us throughout the year.

Tracklist

1. Two Fish – Nicole Zuraitis
2. Christmas Time – Erin Bowman
3. Rise – The Elidas
4. For Me – Norman Alexander
5. Can I see You Tomorrow – Natalie Oliveri
6. Fool – Alessia Piermarini
7. CLOUDS – Pien
8. Calling It – HOLNE
9. Wild Wind – PHILDEL
10. Streets of London – Charlotte Campbell
11. One Year – Kirsten Izer
12. Hold On To Us – The Dunwells, Hollie Rogers, Daisy Chute

The case for co-roasting

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In today's episode, we're exploring the growing global trend of co-roasting – a collaborative and community-driven approach that has been gaining traction in recent years.

How does co-roasting work? What are the benefits for roasters? And how does this model support the wider coffee community?

To find out, we’ll hear from the founders of three exciting shared roasting concepts: Philipp Reichel, Co-founder, Communal Coffee, Andy Wells, Founder, Press Coffee & Co., and Leonardo Azeredo, Founder Co-Roasting Community.

Credits music: Christmas Time by Erin Bowman in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Grind’s David Abrahamovitch Live at The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Today, we’re excited to bring you the next instalment of our 5THWAVE Live sessions, recorded at the European Coffee Symposium in Berlin 2024.

We welcome back to the show David Abrahamovitch, CEO and founder of Grind – a boutique hospitality group with 14 locations, a roastery and thriving direct-to-consumer coffee business.

In this candid conversation, David shares his strategies for securing capital to fuel Grind’s impressive growth. He also explores how the transition to a multi-channel business model has been instrumental in shaping the brand’s ongoing success.

Credits music: What on Earth by HOLNE in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The future of water and coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Today, we're continuing our deep dive into how water quality can transform the taste and character of coffee. In part one, we explored the fascinating science behind water and coffee brewing. In part two, we’ll find out how water science is being applied in practice to elevate customer experience.

We'll speak with Maximillian Lundin, Product Marketing Manager at Bluewater Group, and Sergio Barbarisi, International Key Accounts Manager at BWT water+more, about the latest innovations in water purification technologies and their role in shaping sustainable and more flavourful coffee .

Credits music: Consent by Rosie Smith in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The science of water and coffee

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Over the next two episodes, we’re deep-diving into the fascinating science of how water quality can profoundly transform the flavour and character of your coffee.

In part one, we’re donning our lab coats to explore water chemistry and its impact on coffee. We'll speak with Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood, coffee entrepreneur and author, and Christopher H. Hendon, Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Oregon. Together, they co-authored the groundbreaking book Water for Coffee and are now working on its highly anticipated sequel, Water for Coffee 2.

In part two, we’ll turn to innovative solutions for coffee filtration with Maximillian Lundin from Bluewater and Sergio Barbarisi from BWT water+more.

Credits music: Wild Wind by PHILDEL in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Preparing for the European Deforestation Regulation [Live Recording]

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Today we're returning to our interviews recorded live at The European Coffee Symposium in Berlin last month.

In this episode, we’re exploring the impact of the incoming European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) directive. We’re joined by Kajsa-Lisa Ljudén and Jonny England, Head of Sustainability and Head of Coffee respectively at Löfbergs, and Pim Pilose, Success Manager at technology platform Era of We.

In this important conversation, we’ll explore how coffee businesses can prepare to meet EUDR requirements by supporting farmers and supply chain partners to achieve compliance.

We’ll also discuss the broader implications for sustainability in coffee and how technology and digital platforms can enable companies to track and demonstrate compliance effectively.

Credits music: Can I See You Tomorrow by Natalie Oliveri in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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La Marzocco’s Chris Salierno Live at The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Today we’re sharing the second interview from our 5THWAVE Live sessions recorded at the European Coffee Symposium in Berlin.

In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Salierno, Chief Marketing Officer at La Marzocco. La Marzocco is a powerhouse in the espresso machine industry, celebrated for its exceptional quality, innovative technology and dedication to fostering a global coffee community.

In this conversation, Chris shares how La Marzocco continues to grow as a global, community-led brand - one that’s built on a foundation of culture, authenticity, and deep connections with its customers. We’ll also explore La Marzocco’s core values of Integrity, Curiosity, Impact, Courage, and Celebration - and how these principles drive the brand forward.

Credits music: Fool by Alessia Piermarini in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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dean&david’s David Baumgartner Live at The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:55:29 +0000

Earlier this month, the European Coffee Symposium returned for its 15th edition, hosted in the vibrant city of Berlin. This prestigious event brought together leaders from across Europe’s coffee and hospitality industry for four days of networking, one-on-one meetings, and thought leadership – all culminating in the launch of the brand-new Coffee + Hospitality Expo!

As part of the conference programme, we were delighted to host 5THWAVE LIVE: a series of exclusive podcast interviews with some of Europe’s most inspiring business leaders, recorded in front of a live audience at the event.

Today, we’re thrilled to share the first of those conversations in full. Our guest is David Baumgartner, Founder and CEO of health-focused food-to-go chain dean&david. Founded in Germany in 2007, dean&david has since expanded to over 160 locations across Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, and Switzerland.

In this interview, David shares his passion for promoting nutritious food and reflects on the challenges of scaling a health-focused brand in a market traditionally dominated by bread and pastries. He also discusses the importance of innovation, perseverance, and how building a strong team has been key to his success.

Credits music: Green Goddess by Florence Noon in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Spotlight on Berlin’s specialty coffee scene

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 09 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Next week marks the 15th anniversary of the European Coffee Symposium (ECS), set in the effortlessly cool city of Berlin, Germany. Alongside ECS, we're thrilled to be launching the Coffee & Hospitality Expo – two landmark events coming together in one of Europe’s most dynamic coffee capitals.

This gathering is an opportunity to dive into the latest market insights, create new business connections, and celebrate the exceptional people shaping the European coffee scene.

And, to get us excited for our trip to Berlin, today we’re exploring the city’s thriving specialty coffee scene and how it has evolved over the past decade. We’ll hear from some of Berlin’s standout specialty operators – Ralf Rueller, Founder, The Barn, Sophie Hardy, Co-founder, Annelies and Distrikt Coffee and Kresten Thøgersen, Founder, Father Carpenter.

Check out our guide to the city's best coffee hotspots on the COHO website.

Credits music: "30 and Alone" by Lexie in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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How to win new business

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:34:09 +0000

From coffee roasters and food & beverage providers to packaging and equipment manufacturers, the multi-billion dollar coffee industry is packed with supplier categories. In a crowded marketplace where suppliers are constantly vying for buyers’ attention, the stakes for winning new business are higher than ever.

So, as a supplier, how do you stand out from the crowd? How do you impress operators? And what strategies can you employ to turn opportunities into success?

To explore these questions, we’ll be speaking with Aiden Keegan, CEO, Esquires Coffee, to understand what buyers are really looking for from suppliers. We’ll also hear from Ian Bryson, Managing Director, Lincoln & York, for a seasoned supplier’s perspective on building successful partnerships.

Both Aiden and Ian will also be participating in this year’s one-to-one meeting programme at the European Coffee Symposium in Berlin – an event designed to drive new connections and business development across the coffee industry.

Credits music: "Older" by Molly in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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The unstoppable entrepreneur – A conversation with Murray d’Almeida

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 13:40:29 +0000

In today’s episode, we speak with prolific coffee entrepreneur Murray d’Almeida, founder of Retail Food Group and the visionary behind a number of influential hospitality brands across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia.

With a career spanning over 50 years, Murray has mentored many industry figures and remains a dynamic source of inspiration and wisdom today. In this conversation, Murray shares his core principles for business success and strategies for building multiple brands across diverse markets. Murray also highlights the importance of mastering the basics and establishing a solid structure – emphasising that when the fundamentals are strong, business performance naturally follows.

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Staying true to your craft – A conversation with Esther Maasdam

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 15:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Esther Maasdam, Co-founder of Manhattan Coffee Roasters, a renowned specialty coffee business based in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Esther founded Manhattan Coffee with business partner, Ben Morrow, in 2017, with the vision of bringing world-class specialty coffees to European markets. Esther also runs an events consulting business, offering specialty baristas, catering support, and coffee training for events and exhibitions.

In this conversation, Esther reflects on how she learned to step into the role of a salesperson, actively pursuing new business while staying true to her craft. She underlines the importance of measured growth, expanding her business without compromising the core values and authenticity that drives her vision.

Credits music: "Clouds" by PIEN in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Celebrating UK Coffee Week

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 09:57:17 +0100

Next week marks the start of UK Coffee Week – a nationwide celebration and fundraiser led by Project Waterfall, which aims to bring clean water and sanitation to coffee-growing communities.

Every year, hundreds of coffee shops, restaurants, and roasters across the UK come together to host exciting events and activities, raising both awareness and vital funds for this important cause.

In today’s episode, we’re getting into the spirit of the celebrations by speaking with three incredible supporters to explore the positive impact the coffee industry can make when working together, and what they’re looking forward to this year.

We'll hear from Rob Colicci, Director, Colicci, Emily Shepherd, Brand Manager, Alpro UK&I and Matthew Van Elkan, Owner, Maude Coffee Roasters alongside Rebecca Hodgson, Director Project Waterfall.

UK Coffee Week runs from 14 to 20 October 2024! Discover the events happening near you: ukcoffeeweek.com

Learn how to Create an Autumnal Tablescape with Colicci: colicci.co.uk/events

Credits music: Wake Me Up by Faith Child in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The future of office coffee – Part 2

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 17:19:52 +0100

In this episode we’re diving back into the topic of office coffee and exploring how coffee businesses are adapting to the evolving workplace dynamics. In part one, we examined the office coffee markets in the UK and Europe and in this episode we'll take an in-depth look at the US market.

We'll speak with Daniele Foti, Marketing VP, Lavazza North America, Erin Moshier, VP of Growth, Aramark and Tracy Ging, EVP Coffee Services, Canteen to uncover the key trends shaping the future of office coffee in the US and how employers are meeting the needs of today’s hybrid workforce.

Credits music: "One Year" by Kirsten Izer in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A taste of home – A conversation with the Founders of Maman

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 11:58:56 +0100

In today’s episode, we're speaking with Elisa Marshall and Benjamin Sormonte, Founders of Maman, a French-inspired boutique café and bakery chain that began in New York and has since expanded across the US and to Canada.

Since its founding in 2014, Maman has grown exponentially, and by the end of this year, they’ll be celebrating a remarkable milestone of 40 stores, including locations in New York, Washington, Florida and Toronto. Next week also marks Maman's 10th anniversary, a decade filled with delicious food, welcoming spaces, and vibrant community.

In this inspiring conversation, Elisa and Ben share the secrets behind Maman's rapid growth and how they’ve built such an impressive brand in a short space of time. They also discuss the importance of bringing their team along on the journey, fostering a sense of ownership and ensuring everyone feels like a true partner in the business.

Credits music: "For Me" by Norman Alexander in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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The rise of Modern Coffee - a conversation with Roland Horne, WatchHouse

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we welcome back Roland Horne, CEO and founder of WatchHouse, one of the world’s leading boutique specialty coffee businesses.

This month, WatchHouse celebrates its 10th anniversary — a milestone for this ambitious and fast-growing brand, which now operates 20 boutique coffee houses across London, Bath, and New York City.

Roland has led WatchHouse through multiple funding rounds, including a recent standout £7.2 million ($9 million) campaign, recording the largest-ever hospitality equity-only raise on a crowdfunding platform.

In this conversation, Roland reflects on what makes a funding campaign a success, emphasising the importance of momentum and authenticity. He also discusses his personal drive to leave a lasting legacy, while building a best-in-class international coffee brand.

Credits music: "Mad" by May Roze in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Coffee with a conscience — A conversation with Orang Utan Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 13:34:56 +0100

In this episode, we’re speaking with Regina Frey, Founder of Orang Utan Coffee, and Diana Kosmanto, its CEO. Orang Utan Coffee is a unique coffee trader and social enterprise dedicated to supporting rainforest conservation and empowering local coffee farmers in Sumatra.

Founded in 2004, Orang Utan Coffee’s model is one of collaboration rather than ownership, partnering closely with farmers to promote sustainable coffee production while protecting the natural habitat of Sumatran orangutans.

In our conversation, Regina and Diana share their experiences working with the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme and educating local communities on the importance of habitat and rainforest conservation. They also discuss the challenges of building trust with farmers and the importance of long-term partnerships to ensure stable incomes and sustainable practices.

Credits music: "The Goodbye Scene" by Kinsave Ft. Oumy N'diaye & Steve Cara in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A coffee conversation with GRAMMY-winner Nicole Zuraitis

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0100

Following on from our last episode on coffee and music, we're bringing you an extra special bonus interview today with one of my favourite musicians - Grammy Winner and friend of the podcast, Nicole Zuraitis.

We first met Nicole in 2016 when she won the Coffee Music Project New York Competition with her wonderful track “I Like You A Latte”. Fast-forward 8 years and Nicole is now an award-winning jazz singer-songwriter and pianist who this year scooped up the GRAMMY for Best Jazz Vocal Album.

In this conversation, we catch up with Nicole to see what she’s been up to since her historic win and the connection she sees between the music and coffee worlds.

Credits music: "Two Fish" by Nicole Zuraitis in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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Coffee, music and the perfect playlist

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0100

In today's episode, we're exploring the connection between coffee and music and how the right soundtrack can contribute to the success of a hospitality venue.

How do you identify the perfect playlist? How do different genres, moods, and tempos shape the right customer experience throughout the entire week? And what are the latest trends in hospitality music?

To answer these questions, we'll speak with Paul Ettinger, Business Development and Music Director, Caffè Nero, along with two experts from music curation companies - Magnus Linn, Music Consultant, Startle Music and Rey Day, Music and Communications Manager Playlister.

Credits music: "The Coffee Song (I Like You A Latte)" by Nicole Zuraitis in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Encore: How to be an overnight success - With It’s Bagels

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:45:00 +0100

During our short summer break here we’re re-sharing one of our favourites conversations from the past year. We’ll return to Dan Martensen, the man behind the overnight sensation, It's Bagels - a New-York inspired bagel and coffee shop in London’s Primrose Hill.

Dan opened the doors to Its Bagels in September 2023 and within days they had queues of customers lining up to get their hands on one of Dan’s delicious bagels. So, how did he do it?

In this conversation Dan shares the secrets behind the daunting task of generating PR for a new brand. He also discusses his community-centric approach to business and the art of balancing tradition and modernity.

Credits music: "Mother" by Daisy Chute in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A conversation with Kate O’Brien, The Costa Foundation

World Coffee Portal — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 13:18:01 +0100

Today we’re excited to bring you the full length interview with Kate O’Brien, Executive Director of the Costa Foundation. We first spoke to Kate for our episode on using coffee for social good, but her insights were so valuable that we wanted to share the entire conversation with you today.

Kate has a wealth of experience across the charity sector and in this extended edit, shares some compelling details and examples from the Costa Foundation’s community impact.

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The social entrepreneur - A conversation with Cemal Ezel, Change Please

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0100

Following on from our last episode on leveraging coffee for good, we’re bringing you the full interview with Cemal Ezel, Founder of the social enterprise Change Please and Old Spike Roastery.

Cemal’s insights on both social impact and commercial success were so compelling that we wanted to share the full conversation with you today. In this extended edit, Cemal discusses Change Please’s unique business model and holistic approach to tackling homelessness. He also discusses his recent collaboration with Nespresso and shares exciting plans for global expansion

Credits music: "Calling It" by Richard James aka HOLNE in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Leveraging coffee for good

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re exploring how businesses can leverage coffee as a force for good, benefiting both our coffee communities and the world beyond.

We’ll speak with three leaders from remarkable social organisations to learn about their transformative work and the tangible impact they're making on people's lives.

Cemal Ezel, Founder and CEO Change Please, reveals how his innovative business model provides housing and barista training for individuals experiencing homelessness, empowering them to build brighter futures.

Kate O’Brien, Executive Director of the Costa Foundation shares the charity's mission to support education in coffee-growing communities by funding schools for children where they are needed the most.

Mia Hartwell, Head of Food at the environmental action group Hubbub discusses how the organisation collaborates with communities and hospitality businesses to drive positive environmental change.

Credits music: "Something New" by Naomi Banks in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Introduction to Burundi Coffee - A conversation with Jeanine Niyonzima-Aroian

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 11:24:47 +0100

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Jeanine Niyonzima-Aroian, Owner of JNP Coffee and Board Director of the Specialty Coffee Association, to get an overview of the Burundi coffee market – a vibrant, yet relatively unknown origin.

Founded in 2012, JNP Coffee produces, promotes and trades African specialty coffee and is committed to transforming lives of people in Burundi through economic empowerment.

In this conversation Jeanine discusses the crucial role coffee plays in Burundi’s economy and her mission to raise this market’s awareness. She also emphasises the importance of education, youth involvement, and local processing in adding value to the country’s coffee production.

Credits music: "Take it Off" By Samantha Franks in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Coffee vs. Olive Oil

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 15:00:00 +0100

In this special summer episode, we’re stepping into the glorious world of olive oil to explore the parallels and synergies with the coffee industry.

We’ll speak with Anna Cane, President of the Olive Oil Group at Assitol (The Italian Association of Edible Oils) and Joseph R. Profaci, Executive Director, North American Olive Oil Association to unpack the different types of olive oils on the market and its complex supply chain. We’ll also speak with coffee legend Tony Papas to find out why he’s recently swapped his coffee beans for olive groves with Trulli Ulivi.

Credits music: "I Gotta Hope" by COQO in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Girls Who Grind Coffee - A conversation with Casey Lalonde

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Casey Lalonde, Owner of Girls Who Grind Coffee - a specialty coffee roaster based in Somerset, Southwest England.

Founded in the mid- 2010s, Girls Who Grind sources all its coffees from women producers, with a focus on driving more visibility and representation for women across our industry.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Casey discusses her mission, unique business model, and why she prioritises sourcing based on relationships and stories. Casey also highlights the importance of speaking to consumers in a language they understand, and shares her goal to make coffee more inclusive, celebratory and accessible to all.

Credits music: "Float" by MuddiBrooke in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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The future of office coffee - Part One

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 12:21:13 +0100

In today’s episode we’re discussing the future of office coffee and finding out how coffee businesses are adapting to changing dynamics and the rise of hybrid working.

In this episode we’ll examine the UK and European office coffee markets and in a later episode we’ll take an in-depth look at the North American market.

Today, we’ll speak with Nick Stevens, B2B Commercial Director UK&I, Nespresso Professional, Vince Kelders, Group Category Leader Hot Drinks, Selecta and Andrea Clerici, Global Commercial Director, Gruppo Cimbali, about the key role premium coffee plays in building company culture and the latest digital solutions and innovations that are shaping the market.

Credits music: "Lifeline" by Neve Bowen in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Building a better restaurant - with Peter Harman, Part Two

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0100

Today's episode is part two of a conversation with Peter Harman - a veteran restaurateur, author and host of the Build A Better Restaurant podcast.

In part one, Peter walked us through his Eight Basic Fundamentals and actionable insights for success in the highly complex restaurant industry. In part two, Peter shares yet more wisdom from his years in the restaurant industry and outlines his Six Sales Pillars for increasing profit margins.

Find out more about Peter Harman, his books and podcast here: www.foodguru.com

Credits music: "Rights Back Right Now" by artist Shira Girl in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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Building a better restaurant - with Peter Harman, Part One

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we're joined by Peter Harman - a veteran restaurateur, author and host of the Build A Better Restaurant podcast.

Drawing on a wealth of experience in the restaurant industry, Peter's weekly podcast shares invaluable insight and advice on how to grow as a leader and build a more profitable hospitality business.

Over the next two episodes, we'll bring you a snapshot of some of his core principles and strategies. In part one, Peter walks us through his Eight Basic Fundamentals and actionable insights for success in the highly complex restaurant industry. In part two, Peter shares his Six Sales Pillars for increasing profit margins.

Find out more about Peter Harman, his books and podcast here: www.foodguru.com

Credits music: "Studio Apartment" by Haley Fishberger in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Why is Korea so obsessed with coffee?

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 06 Jul 2024 07:40:10 +0100

In today's episode, we’re stepping into one of the world's most vibrant and trendy coffee shop markets to uncover why Korea is so captivated by coffee.

In conversations with Cera Jung, Country Manager, Specialty Coffee Association Korea, Ryan Suh, General Manager, Blue Bottle Coffee Korea and Matt Lee, General Manager, La Marzocco Korea, we'll find out how the Korean coffee market has evolved in the last 10 years and delve into the latest beverage innovations. We'll also discuss opportunities for international brands in Korea and what’s next for this trendsetting market.

Credits music: "Heart Attack" by Se.A in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the show

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Riding the wave to success – A conversation with Adam White, Riding House Cafes

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 09:13:52 +0100

Following on from our Antipodean brunch episode, today we’re speaking with Adam White, Founder of Riding House Cafés – a pioneering all-day dining operator in central London.

After a career managing pubs for Mitchells & Butlers and success with his own venture, The Garrison in edgy Bermondsey, Adam opened The Riding House Café in Fitzrovia in 2010. Since then, Riding House has established itself as a forerunner in the city's brunch scene and has grown to three bustling neighbourhood restaurants across London.

In this conversation, Adam reflects on his career, sharing his thoughtful and local approach that has been instrumental to Riding House’s success. He also discusses the importance of creative collaboration and being adaptable in a competitive marketplace when building an enduring restaurant brand.

Credits music: "Summer" by Maddie King in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The incredible rise of plant-based beverages

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 04:00:00 +0100

In today's episode, we're diving into the world of plant-based beverages to explore the rapid rise of non-dairy options in coffee shops and what's next for this dynamic category.

We'll first speak with Sam Henderson, Group Beverage Development Manager at Starbucks EMEA and Mia Hartwell, Head of Food, Hubbub to find out how the dairy alternative category has developed in recent years and why more consumers are choosing plant-based options.

We'll also speak with Declan Mackle, Global Head of Coffee, Alpro / Silk and Pip O’Neill, Brand Manager and Nicole Chan, Coffee Community Manager at MOMA Foods, to understand the different waves of plant-based adoption around the world and unpack the phenomenal success of oat.

Credits music: "Carolina Gold" by Dani in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Bold, fearless adventures - A conversation with coffee pioneer Todd Carmichael

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 11:20:00 +0100

In today’s episode, we’re speaking with a true industry legend - Todd Carmichael, specialty coffee pioneer and Co-founder of La Colombe Coffee Roasters.

From humble beginnings, Todd founded La Colombe with his business partner JP Iberti in Philadelphia in 1994 and together, they grew the business into one of the most influential coffee brands in North America. In 2023 La Colombe was fully acquired by yoghurt giant Chobani for an incredible $900m.

In addition to being a successful entrepreneur, Todd is an inventor, philanthropist, TV personality and fearless adventurer. His latest project Loftiwater is a ground-breaking non-carbon gas sparkling beverage that infuses water, natural flavourings and blended gasses into a refreshing beverage.

In this candid conversation, Todd shares how relentless creativity, innovation and risk-taking drove La Colombe to success. He also reflects on his childhood and the profound impact coffee has had in shaping his resilient and creative mindset.

Credits music: "If I Fall" by Christie Huff in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Antipodean influence and the thriving London brunch scene

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 15:43:26 +0100

In today's episode we're exploring the Antipodean influence on London's brunch culture and finding out how this unique style of hospitality made its mark in the UK capital’s fiercely competitive casual dining scene.

We'll be speaking with the founders behind three of London’s iconic Antipodean-inspired all-day restaurants to find out how brunch culture has evolved across the city, and how they design and develop their mouth-watering menus.

We'll hear from Miles Kirby, Co-founder and Chef Director, Caravan Restaurants and Caravan Coffee Roasters, Shelagh Ryan, Co-founder and Food Director, Lantana, and Elliot Milne, Founder, Milk Beach.

Credits music: "Hold on to Us" by The Dunwells, Daisy Chute and Hollie Rogers in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A conversation with iconic designer Kees van der Westen

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 28 May 2024 10:32:51 +0100

In today’s episode we’re speaking with one of the most innovative pioneers within the global coffee equipment market, Kees van der Westen.

Since designing his first machine in 1984, Kees has been an industry trailblazer, known for an unwavering commitment to quality, boundary-pushing design and innovation. Today Kees focuses on research and development, while the core business operations are run by his wife and three daughters.

In this conversation, Kees is joined by his daughter Yvette van der Westen to unpack the family story behind the eponymous brand and discuss recent growth opportunities in Asia. Kees also shares his design philosophy and the importance of maintaining human touch and craftsmanship in an increasingly automated world.

Credits music: "Practice What You Preach" by Russo & Co. in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A conversation with Dutch coffee veteran, Hans Tietema, Kaldi Koffie & Thee

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 20 May 2024 13:31:12 +0100

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Hans Tietema, Founder of the highly-respected Dutch retail and coffee bar chain Kaldi Koffie & Thee.

With over 30 years of experience in the coffee industry, Hans has grown Kaldi from a single shop to a thriving franchise business with 25 sites across the Netherlands plus a recent partnership in Saudi Arabia.

In this conversation Hans shares insight on his expansion strategies, the challenges in finding the right franchise partners and his decision to enter the Saudi market. He also highlights the value in cultural understanding when entering new markets and the importance of always staying true to your core concept.

Credits music: "Clouds" by PIEN in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The art and science of building wholesale coffee accounts

World Coffee Portal — Wed, 08 May 2024 04:00:00 +0100

Today we’re rounding off our series on the business of coffee roasting by finding out how leading roasters establish and nurture their wholesale partnerships.

We'll speak with Colin Morrison, Managing Director, Small Batch Coffee Roasters, Petr Kvasnička, Owner, Father's Coffee Roastery and Alex Spruce, Sales Director, Löfbergs UK, to understand how they market their brand and generate new business, and the ongoing support they provide their wholesale clients.

Credits music: "Měsíc" by David Pomahač in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Fostering connections across the coffee community - A conversation with Laughing Man Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 10:20:21 +0100

In this episode we’re speaking with David Steingard, CEO and co-founder of New York-based coffee business, Laughing Man.

David founded Laughing Man in 2009 with his business partners, united by a vision to foster connection, positivity and community through coffee. The company has also set up a related charitable initiative The Laughing Man Foundation and more recently, the content creation space Laughing Man Studios.

In this conversation, David shares incredible insight and wisdom from his years building and scaling a boutique business and discusses his upcoming plans for expanding via franchising. He also shares Laughing Man’s mission to improve the lives of coffee growing communities, supporting better housing, education scholarships and women-led cooperatives.

Credits music: "Aurora" by Matt Kent in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Nurturing relationships at origin - A conversation with La Cabra

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:21:14 +0100

Following on from our last episode on the world of green coffee, today we’re releasing the complete interview with John Gibson, Head Roaster at Danish specialty coffee and bakery chain, La Cabra.

In this conversation, John walks us through La Cabra’s approach to sourcing green coffee, how he selects growers to work with and the importance of nurturing those relationships at origin.

He also unpacks the definition of direct trade, highlighting the need to use green coffee partners to facilitate seamless transportation and logistics and ensure fair prices for farmers.

Credits music: "Rise" by The Elidas in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Introduction to green coffee sourcing

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 10:05:22 +0100

Today we’re continuing our series on the business of coffee roasting and exploring the world of green coffee supply.

We'll speak with Jordan Hooper, Head of Green Coffee Trading, Sucafina and Line Cosmidis, Head of Specialty Sales, Falcon Coffees, to learn more about the green coffee supply chain, the role of the trader and how this has evolved in the digital era.

We'll also speak with John Gibson, Head Roaster, La Cabra, about his approach to direct sourcing and why building relationships at origin is so important to the business.

Credits music: "Miraculous" by Riya Gadher - the winning song of The Coffee Music Project 2024 Planet Earth competition in association with SEB Collective

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Scaling and selling a coffee business - A conversation with Ed Barry

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we’re returning to our funding mini series and speaking with entrepreneur Ed Barry about scaling and ultimately selling a coffee business.

Ed is the former owner of London-based independent cafe chain Over Under Coffee. Ed founded and grew Over Under to a formidable eight-strong chain, plus a franchise in the Middle East, before selling the business to ambitious New York-based start-up Blank Street in 2022.

Following the acquisition, Ed has set up hospitality tech platform Edify Systems.

In this candid conversation, Ed shares his experience of the M&A process, from preparing the business for sale and lengthy due diligence to managing the transition period. He also highlights the importance of meticulous planning and ensuring continued financial performance throughout the sales process.

Credits music: "Cry Don’t You" by IONA SKY in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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What’s in store for London Coffee Festival 2024!

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0100

The London Coffee Festival 2024 is less than 2 weeks away and with it comes a four-day celebration of London’s vibrant coffee scene and its dedicated community.

Since its inception in 2011 , The London Coffee Festival has attracted tens of thousands of hospitality professionals and coffee connoisseurs, fostering deep connections among those with a shared passion for coffee in London.

And so in celebration of this remarkable event and to get us in the mood for this year’s festivities, we’re catching up with a few exhibitors and loyal participants about their favourite moments and also to hear what they are excited for this years’ event.

We'll speak with Camilla Morgan, Head of Business Development & Customer Relationships, Eversys UK, Alex Spruce, Sales Director, Lofbergs UK, Lori Latham, Chief Commercial Office, Sproud, latte art champion Dhan Tamang, Coffee Masters London 2023 winner Jānis Podiņš and Harry Goddin, Commercial Director, William Reed.

Credits music: "Fire" by Ruby Confue in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The future of tea in the US market - With Rishi Tea

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 12:38:25 +0000

In today’s episode we’re swapping our coffee beans for tea leaves and speaking with Nathan Kosky, Executive Vice President, for Rishi Tea & Botanicals.

Founded in 1997 by Joshua Kaiser, Rishi Tea was a pioneer in bringing premium loose-leaf tea to the North American market. Today the brand supplies a wide range of high-quality teas, powders and infusions to coffee shops, restaurants and consumers across the US.

In this conversation, Nathan shares the latest tea drinking trends in the US and how consumer preferences have evolved in recent years. He also highlights how hospitality businesses can increase tea sales through storytelling and ceremony to deliver an elevated customer experience

Credits music: "Something New" by Kirstie Kraus in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Serving your community - A conversation with Eileen Rinaldi, Ritual Coffee Roasters

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 16:27:11 +0000

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Eileen Rinaldi, Founder and CEO of San Francisco’s iconic Ritual Coffee Roasters.

Established in 2005, Ritual was a forerunner in San Francisco’s specialty coffee movement that exploded in the late-2000s. Today, the business operates five sites and a roastery in the Bay Area and Napa Valley.

In this insightful conversation, Eileen discusses her bold ambition for Ritual to become a community-led and employee-owned business. She also stresses the importance of having a clear vision, being fully committed to your goals and making sure you have access to enough capital before it’s critical.

Credits music: "Say It Again" by Madeleine Mayi in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Roasting for the future - A conversation with Scott Stouffer, Chief Sales Officer, Probat

World Coffee Portal — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 16:57:15 +0000

Following on from our last episode exploring the equipment required for a successful roastery, today we are releasing the complete interview with Scott Stouffer, Chief Sales Officer, Probat.

In this conversation, Scott offers incredible insights into the world of coffee roasting equipment and he sheds light on which markets are growing the fastest. He also discusses the latest trends in technology, including automation and alternative energy, and shares important advice for any roaster looking to sustainably grow their business.

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Optimising roastery equipment for success

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 19:46:50 +0000

In today's episode we're continuing our series on the business of coffee roasting and focusing on the essential infrastructure required for a successful roastery.

We'll speak with Scott Stouffer, Chief Sales Officer, Probat and Andreas Idl, CEO & Founder, Cropster to get an overview of the roasting equipment market globally and find out how technology and AI can be used to improve coffee consistency and quality.

We'll also speak with Brian Rice, Roaster, Counter Culture Coffee and Simo Kristidhi, Production and Logistics Manager, Solberg & Hansen about the essential pieces of equipment and technology needed when setting up a roastery and how to optimise the space for efficiency.

Credits music: "Merry Go Around" by The Velvet Fuzz in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Building a specialty coffee business from the ground up – A conversation with Parlor Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:22:26 +0000

In today's "Coffee Entrepreneur" episode, we're speaking with Dillon Edwards and AJ Walzer, the team behind one of New York City’s favourite specialty coffee brands - Parlor Coffee.

Dillon founded Parlor Coffee in 2012, originally as a pop up espresso bar in a Williamsburg barber’s shop. AJ joined in 2014 and since then, Parlor has grown to a formidable and globally revered roasting business, driven by a passion for origin, community and innovation.

In this conversation, Dillon and AJ discuss the evolution of the New York specialty coffee scene over the last 15 years, and their decision to prioritise wholesale expansion. They also highlight the need for innovation, elevating the customer experience, and the importance of empathy and shared values when building a business together.

Credits music: "Burn" by Grammy-winning artist Nicole Zuraitis in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The important role of the International Coffee Organization

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 24 Feb 2024 11:50:27 +0000

In today’s episode we're to be joined by Vanusia Nogueira, Executive Director of the International Coffee Organization (ICO).

Established in 1963, the ICO was set up to regulate the global coffee market, promote international cooperation and administer the International Coffee Agreement.

Today the ICO is as a vital platform for education and consultation, fostering long-term, sustainable production and increasing consumption of quality coffee.

In this conversation Vanusia discusses the new regulations and initiatives aimed at equipping producers with the solutions and tools to tackle coffee production’s most pressing challenges. She also highlights the importance of establishing funding mechanisms for producers and the necessity of attracting young entrepreneurs back and into specialty coffee at origin.

Credits music: "Pronoia" by Carly Pearl in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A new era ahead for coffee in Thailand

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 07:45:04 +0000

In today's episode we're kicking off a new mini series on Thailand's vibrant coffee shop market, exploring the recent growth of specialty coffee and opportunities for international brands.

First up, we're speaking with Varatt "Tae" Vichit-Vadakan, founder of Kinnest Group - a boutique F&B group in Bangkok with over 20 hospitality venues and 8 sub brands including Roots Coffee, Roast and Monty's.

In this conversation Tae discusses the evolution of Thailand’s specialty coffee scene over the last 15 years and the joys of collaborating with other creative and passionate entrepreneurs. He also highlights his vision to reconnect with Thailand’s traditional coffee drinking culture by tapping into the nation’s increasing pride for Thai-grown coffee.

Credits music: "Sad Sometimes" by Rosin in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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How to set up a coffee roastery

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 09:39:45 +0000

Today we're kicking off a new series on the business of coffee roasting, exploring all aspects of setting up a roastery - from sourcing equipment and green coffee to building a brand and establishing wholesale partnerships.

In the first episode, we speak with Lem Butler, Co-Founder, Black and White Coffee Roasters and Kirby Sinclair, Co-founder, The Roasting Party, to understand the basics and first steps of establishing a roastery In these conversations we discuss how to find the right location, how to know when to upgrade facilities as you grow and the importance of defining your vision and building business relationships.

Credits music: "Bad as you Are" by Alicia Davis in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Crowdfunding: How to raise funds using your community

World Coffee Portal — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 16:08:37 +0000

Today we’re continuing our funding series by speaking with Dan Hardy, Chief Revenue Officer at Crowdcube to find out how to prepare and execute a successful crowdfunding campaign.

Crowdcube is Europe’s largest private lending marketplace with a community of over 1.5 million members. To date the platform has helped raise £1.4 billion of investment and has worked with over 1,300 entrepreneurs, including ambitious companies such as Grind, WatchHouse, Brewdog and Monzo.

In this conversation Dan walks us through the crowdfunding process and sheds light on how to build and capitalise on campaign momentum. We also discuss the importance of creating a narrative with your community and communicating a clear and powerful mission statement.

Credits music: "Dizzy" by Richard James in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Democratising specialty coffee in Spain - A conversation with Yassir Rais, Syra Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 13:05:31 +0000

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Yassir Rais, Founder and CEO of Spanish specialty coffee business, Syra Coffee.

Founded in 2015 in Barcelona, Syra Coffee has rapidly grown in recent years and now has an impressive 43 sites across 7 cities in Spain as well as a formidable B2C roasting business.

In this conversation Yassir explores the inherent relationship between design, architecture and specialty coffee and shares his mission to democratise good coffee by making it accessible and affordable to all consumers.

Credits music: "Broken Ground" by Kavalla in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Encore episode: A quiet achiever – In conversation with Anne Lunell

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:57:00 +0000

In the second episode of our Christmas break, we’re resharing a conversation with Anne Lunell - the co-visionary behind Swedish specialty roaster, Koppi Coffee Roasters.

Respected throughout the industry, Anne is a former Swedish Barista Champion, international coffee judge, and was recently presented an Outstanding Industry Contribution honour at the European Coffee Awards in Barcelona.

In this conversation, Anne discusses the importance of building a values-based business and shares why taking a step back and simplifying Koppi’s business model has created a fundamental work-life balance that so many successful entrepreneurs crave.

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Encore episode: A life of adventure – In conversation with Tony Papas

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 30 Dec 2023 11:46:09 +0000

During our short break over the Christmas and New Year we’re re-sharing some of our favourite conversations from the last 12 months.

First up is the legendary Tony Papas, a multi-faceted hospitality entrepreneur, with a global career spanning Michelin-starred restaurants, boutique bakeries, specialty coffee roasting with Allpress Espresso, and most recently, developing an olive farm in Puglia, Italy.

In this conversation, Tony shares his business instinct of knowing when to jump in and when to step away, and the importance of fostering a cohesive culture by bringing every team member along on the adventure.

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An alternative Christmas playlist from The Coffee Music Project

World Coffee Portal — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 04:00:00 +0000

In today's episode we're bringing you an alternative Christmas playlist to accompany your festive celebrations.

It’s our tradition to close each episode showcasing music from up and coming talented artists in association with The Coffee Music Project. And today we’re bringing you a bonus episode packed full of some of our favourite tracks from the year - plus a couple of festive numbers for good measure. So sit back, crack open the mulled wine and enjoy this Festive Treat of excellent music.

A big thank you to all the incredible artists for lending their remarkable tracks throughout the year!

Tracklist

Steve Ray Ladson - Do you Know
Lisa Crawley - Don't Delete Me
Richard James aka HOLNE - See the Magic
MARLEY - Besos De Miel
Scott Krokoff - Fortunately
Amira B - Do You
Olivia Junholm - Hurry Slow
Samantha Rise - Rye Grass Ryder
The Grove - Sun and Rain
Norman Alexander - All I Know
Abrielle Scharff - New York Makes Me Cry
Daisy Chute - Christmas Just For Two

How to be an overnight success - with It’s Bagels

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 04:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Dan Martensen, the man behind the overnight sensation, It's Bagels - a New-York inspired bagel and coffee shop in London’s Primrose Hill.

Dan opened the doors to It's Bagels in September 2023 and within days they had queues of over 200 eager customers lining up for a bagel and coffee. So, how did he do it?

Credits music: "Mother" by Daisy Chute in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Colombian coffee: The big opportunity abroad

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 08:52:01 +0000

Today is the third and final part of our series exploring the Colombian coffee market and in this episode we’re discussing the enduring appeal of Colombian coffee abroad.

We'll speak with Victor Gamboa, Santiago Gamboa, and Adnan Millwala, Co-founders of Hermanos Coffee Roasters in London. In this conversation they discuss adapting Colombian coffee to UK consumer preferences and how they communicate their Colombian heritage to their customers.

We’ll also hear from industry guru, Tim Wendelboe who shares his passion for Colombian coffee, why he invested in a Colombian farm and why the country's coffees are so highly revered around the world.

Credits music: "Serendipia" by London-based Colombian artist Eliana Echeverry in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Elaine Swift and Adrian Steiner Live @ The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:08:25 +0000

Today we’re bringing you to the final two interviews from the 5THWAVE Live sessions - recorded at the European Coffee Symposium last month in Barcelona.

We’ll hear from Elaine Swift, Out Of Home Director for UCC Coffee Europe and Adrian Steiner, CEO, Thermoplan.

In these conversations we discuss the importance of staying ahead of the curve, being agile and adapting to an ever-evolving consumer landscape.

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Guido Bernardinelli Live @ The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Today we’re sharing the second interview from our 5THWAVE Live sessions - recorded at the European Coffee Symposium 2023 in Barcelona.

In this episode we catch up with industry legend Guido Bernardinelli, CEO of La Marzocco. La Marzocco is a powerhouse in the espresso machine category, known for their quality machines, cutting edge technology and iconic designs.

In our conversation, Guido highlights the role of a good leader is one that continuously learns from their team and their customers and cultivates a collaborative working environment.

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Marta Pogroszewska Live @ The European Coffee Symposium

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:04:42 +0000

Last week marked the 15th year of the Allegra European Coffee Symposium, held Barcelona. This high profile event welcomed leaders from across Europe’s coffee and hospitality industry for three days of networking, one-on-one meetings, thought leadership and the annual European Coffee Awards.

As part of the conference programme, we were delighted to host a series of exclusive interviews with some of the industry’s most celebrated business leaders in the first ever 5THWAVE Podcast Live.

And today, we’re bringing you the first of those interviews in full, and speaking with Marta Pogroszewska, Managing Director of GAIL’s Bakery.

GAIL’s is a highly successful boutique bakery chain with 127 bakeries in the UK and are renowned for their people-centric approach to business.

In this conversation Marta shares stories from her incredible career and the secrets behind GAIL’s successful hiring and people development programmes.

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The Magic of Colombian coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 14:11:23 +0000

In today's episode we're continuing our series exploring the vast and diverse Colombian coffee market.

In part one, Alejandro Cadena from Caravela Coffee, shared an overview of the country’s rich tapestry of microclimates and coffee varietals.

And today we're immersing ourselves in Colombian coffee culture by speaking with Carolina Castañeda, Director for Europe, Federacion Nacional de Cafeteros de Colombia and Jaime Andres Moreno, COO, Café Quindío.

In these conversations we discuss the latest trends in specialty coffee in Colombia and find out how coffee has become so closely connected to Colombia's national identity.

Credits music: "Besos de Miel" by Marley in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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How to raise funds - with David Abrahamovitch, Grind

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 17:21:59 +0000

In today's episode we're exploring the investment trail to find out how hospitality businesses can prepare and execute a successful funding strategy.

We'll speak with David Abrahamovitch, CEO and founder of Grind - a boutique hospitality group that has completed a number of successful multi-million dollar funding rounds.

In this conversation, David walks us through each stage of the brand's funding journey - from individual investors to crowdfunding - and shares invaluable advice for entrepreneurs looking to raise capital for growth.

Credits music: "Streets of London" by Charlotte Campbell in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Intro to Colombian coffee - with Caravela Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:04:56 +0000

In today's episode we're kicking off a new mini series on the Colombian coffee market, exploring the trends and future developments of this vast and diverse coffee growing country.

First up, we speak with Alejandro Cadena, CEO & Founder of specialty green coffee exporter, Caravela Coffee, to get an overview of the market and Colombia's different growing regions.

In this conversation, Alejandro unpacks Colombia's rich tapestry of microclimates and coffee varietals and discusses the impact of increasing coffee farm consolidation.

Credits music: "Un Weekend Contigo" by Marley in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Operational metrics - with Andrew Purcell, Always Bright Group

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 12:46:54 +0000

In today's episode, we continue exploring the metrics and KPIs successful hospitality operators use to achieve outstanding results.

Last week we heard from Colin Harmon of Dublin’s 3fe about the indicators he employs to maximise the performance of his coffee business. Next up, we speak with Andrew Purcell, Director of Always Bright Group and former Head of Operations for Central London at Soho House.

In this conversation Andrew shares the simple but effective framework he uses to deliver operational excellence and a consistent and first-rate customer experience.

Credits music: "Jack is Back" by Sonia Leigh in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Business metrics - with Colin Harmon, 3fe

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 14:23:41 +0100

In the next two episodes we’re exploring the critical business metrics and KPIs successful coffee and hospitality operators use to achieve outstanding results.

First up we speak with Colin Harmon, Founder and CEO of 3fe - an iconic chain of specialty coffee shops and roastery based in Dublin.

In this conversation, Colin discusses the importance of taking a long-term view to achieve your goals and shares the metrics he tracks to maximise business performance.

For more on how to build a coffee shop business you can buy "What I Know about Running Coffee Shops" by Colin Harmon here.

Credits music: "Send Me" by Bobbie Harvey in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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How to market a hospitality venue

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 11:49:07 +0100

On the podcast today we're exploring the hospitality marketing landscape and unpacking the various channels and strategies operators can use to promote their brand.

In conversations with Andrew Stone, Vice President Marketing at Bluestone Lane and marketing consultant Emily Karim, we find out how hospitality operators can successfully adapt to the fast-changing marketing landscape and consistently attract new customers to their businesses.

Credits music: "Sun and Rain" by The Grove in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A conversation with Tareq Alshaikh, Toby's Estate Middle East

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:17:57 +0100

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Tareq Alshaikh, co-founder of Pinnacle Group, the hospitality partner operating Toby’s Estate Coffee Roasters, across the GCC.

Founded in Australia by Toby Smith in the late 1990s, Toby’s Estate is now a highly respected and pioneering specialty coffee brand across the world. In 2015, Pinnacle Group partnered with Toby’s Estate to franchise the brand in the GCC and now have 20 outlets across Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

In this conversation, Tareq discusses the deep influence of Australian coffee culture in the Middle East, the added business benefits of fully digitised stores, as well as sharing the brand’s plans for regional and international expansion.

Credits music: "The Art of Music" by Dudley Music in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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New York City entrepreneurs: 787 Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0100

Today, we’re finishing off our interview series speaking with some of New York’s leading boutique coffee businesses by catching up with Brandon Peña and Sam Sepulveda, Co-founders of 787 Coffee.

Founded in 2017, 787 Coffee is one of the fastest boutique coffee chains in New York. They now operate 17 sites in the city, 2 in El Paso Texas and 4 in their native Puerto Rico where they also operate their own coffee farm.

In this conversation they discuss what it means to be a leader, their responsibility to their staff and community and the unexpected silver linings and new opportunities that come from surviving the impact of Hurricane Maria and the pandemic.

Credits music: "Welcome to the Boogie by Keren Abreu in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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New York City entrepreneurs: Variety Coffee Roasters

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 07 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0100

In today's episode we continue our interview series speaking with some of New York’s leading boutique coffee businesses.

Next up we’re speaking with Gavin Compton and Ryan Wanslow, Owner and Managing Director respectively at Variety Coffee Roasters.

In this conversation we discuss the importance of staying original and true to your roots, keeping it simple and, most of all - making sure you enjoy the journey.

Credits music: "For Me" by Norman Alexander in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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New York City entrepreneurs: Gumption Coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0100

This week we’re back in New York City for the New York Coffee Festival 2023!

Over the next three days we’re bringing you exclusive interviews with the founders of three highly successful boutique coffee businesses in New York. First up we speak with Hazel de los Reyes and Clare Lim, Co-founders Gumption Coffee.

In this conversation we discuss their belief in the transformational power of the coffee, the lessons they’ve learned in setting up in New York City, and the importance of being fearless and inspiring trust within your teams.

Credits music: New York Makes Me Cry by Abrielle Scharff in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The business of specialty coffee - A conversation with Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 22:48:41 +0100

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood, Founder of Colonna Coffee - a boutique specialty coffee business in the UK.

A celebrated author and innovator in the world of coffee, Maxwell will soon be releasing a new book - The Business of Specialty Coffee - exploring the models and operating margins of businesses across the specialty coffee supply chain.

We sit down with Maxwell to find out what to expect from his latest publication and discuss his new coffee shop venture in the heart of London's creative district.

Pre-order The Business of Specialty Coffee by Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood here.

Credits music: "N Luv Again" by Trop Mal in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The powerful connection between coffee and sport

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 09:36:39 +0100

On the podcast today we’re delving into the worlds of coffee and sport to explore the synergies between these two high profile industries.

We'll be speaking with Dr Lindsy Kass, Principle Lecturer, University of Hertfordshire to get a deeper understanding of what caffeine does to the body and how it can affect athletic performance.

We'll also hear from Caleb Benoit, Founder, Connect Roasters and Major League Baseball player Ian Happ from the Chicago Cubs, about their business partnership and the importance of aligning on vision and values.

Credits music: "Rye Grass Ryder" by Samantha Rise in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Encore episode: Magic Realism with Isabela Raposeiras of Coffee Lab São Paulo

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:59:21 +0100

In our second episode of our summer break, we revisit another inspiring conversation I had with Isabela Raposeiras last year.

Isabela is a former Brazilian Barista Champion, Founder of pioneering specialty coffee and coffee education business, Coffee Lab in São Paulo and one of the most accomplished female leaders in the global coffee industry.

Credits music: "Curandeiras" by Isadora Canto

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Encore episode: The Genius behind Hoffmann Industries

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:00:00 +0100

We’re taking a short summer break here at 5THWAVE and returning to our usual schedule in two weeks. But to tide you over we’re revisiting a couple of our favourite conversations from the last three years.

First up is an incredible James Hoffmann. James is a world-renowned figure in the global coffee industry. A former World Barista Champion, co-founder of Square Mile Coffee Roasters, and author of The World Atlas of Coffee, and a prolific YouTuber who has amassed almost 2 million subscribers.

In this conversation, James discusses his ambitions, business tenets, and we discover the mindset that has helped build his remarkable career

Subscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

The UK's hospitality staffing crisis

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 15:30:56 +0100

On the podcast today, we're continuing our exploration of talent management and finding out how Brexit, the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis has impacted hospitality staffing in the UK.

We speak with Mark McCulloch, marketing guru and Founder of Hospitality Rising to hear how the organisation's multi-layered media campaign is changing the perception of hospitality as a viable career.

We also speak with Jakob Gundersen, Head of UK Operations, Joe & the Juice, and Max Dubiel, Founder, Redemption Roasters to explore how UK operators are finding solutions to the staffing crisis and why developing internally and hiring from often overlooked communities is key to building a talented workforce.

Credits music: "Sun and Rain" by The Grove in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Understanding your purpose - a conversation with Rosslyn’s James Hennebry

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 10:50:54 +0100

On the podcast today, we’re speaking with James Hennebry, entrepreneur and Co-founder of Rosslyn Coffee - a boutique specialty coffee business in the heart of London’s financial district and one of the city's standout hospitality venues.

With a longstanding background in hospitality that’s taken him from his native Ireland to Asia, Melbourne Australia and now London, James opened the doors to Rosslyn with business partner Mat Russell in 2018. They now have three sites across London’s Square Mile with more in the pipeline.

In this conversation James shares the importance of taking care of staff and how success lies in developing a clear understanding of your true value proposition and delivering it well to your customers.

Credits music: "She Lives Alone" by Jnay in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The pursuit of knowledge – a conversation with Peter Giuliano

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 04:00:00 +0100

In today’s episode we’re chatting with coffee guru Peter Giuliano - an incredibly influential figure in the coffee industry and a true global visionary.

With a career spanning more than 30 years. Peter was the Co-owner of North Carolina-based roaster Counter Culture Coffee where he helped build their pioneering direct sourcing and transparency model.

Peter now serves as Executive Director at The Coffee Science Foundation and is Chief Research Officer at the Specialty Coffee Association, overseeing the organisation's research and scientific investigation divisions.

In this conversation Peter discusses the importance of building a global coffee community and how the industry can use science and knowledge sharing to adapt to change and prepare for the unexpected.

Credits music: "Redlight" by Naytive in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Nurturing hospitality's greatest asset

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 08:38:47 +0100

On the podcast today we’re kicking off a feature on talent management to understand how the hospitality industry can protect its key asset - people.

In part one we focus on people strategy and find out how leading hospitality businesses foster a positive work culture.

In conversations with Jonathan Crookall, Chief People Officer, Costa Coffee, Brooke Gray, Director of People, Equator Coffees and Henry Ayers, Co-founder, The Gentlemen Baristas, we discuss the staffing challenges they are currently facing, what they look for in potential employees and how they keep teams motivated to deliver exceptional customer service.

Credits music: "3 Lies" by Alessia Piermarini in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A conversation with Boram Um, World Barista Champion 2023

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 04:00:00 +0100

On the podcast today we're catching up with newly-crowned World Barista Champion Boram Um.

Born in Brazil to South Korean parents, Boram is the founder of boutique specialty coffee business Um Coffee Co. and is the first Brazilian winner in the competition’s history.

In this conversation, Boram discusses his mission to educate Brazilian consumers about the joys of home-grown specialty coffee and shares his pride in becoming a role model for the next generation of Brazilian specialty coffee professionals.

Credits music: "Waves With You" by Natalie Oliveri and Funk LeBlanc in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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A conversation with Peter Dore-Smith, The Coffee King of Fitzrovia

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 12:13:16 +0100

On the podcast today, we're catching up with industry legend Peter Dore-Smith - the man behind Fitzrovia's iconic coffee shop, Kaffeine, and one of the early pioneers of the London specialty coffee movement.

In this insightful conversation, Peter tells the story of how he started Kaffeine, shares his people-centric approach to hiring, and why delivering genuine hospitality within his local community is the driving force behind his business.

Credits music: "Fortunately" by Scott Krokoff in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Indian coffee at origin: Meeting the rapid pace of demand

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 16:13:26 +0100

In the final part of our series on the Indian coffee market, we’re travelling to origin to explore what's happening in India’s vast and dynamic coffee farm sector.

To get to know this sector better, we speak with Ashok Kuriyan and Rohan Kuriyan, Managing Director and Manager of Corporate Affairs at Balanoor Plantations - a renowned producer of specialty coffee in Karnataka, India.

In this conversation, Ashok and Rohan discuss Indian consumers' growing interest in the origin of home grown coffees, and shed light on the social, economic and environmental challenges Indian coffee producers are currently navigating at farm-level.

Catch up on parts one and two here.

Credits music: "Head in the Clouds" by Carly Pearl in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The rapid rise of specialty coffee in India

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 04:00:00 +0100

In today's episode we're continuing our exploration of the Indian coffee market and turning the spotlight on the country's rapidly growing love for specialty coffee.

In conversations with Namrata Asthana and Matt Chitharanjan, Founders, Blue Tokai, Mike Khan, Area Export Manager, La Marzocco, and Rahul Reddy, Founder, Subko Specialty Coffee Roasters, we find out how specialty coffee is being adapted for the Indian consumer, what's driving the market's impressive growth and how leading specialty operators are embracing this exciting new era for Indian coffee.

Credits music: "Fast and Far" by Shrink the Giant in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Unlocking India's massive growth potential - A conversation with Tata Starbucks

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 04:00:00 +0100

In a new three-part series, we're exploring the exciting growth potential for coffee businesses in India - from international chains and the rise of specialty coffee to the increasing recognition of Indian grown coffees.

To kick things off, we're speaking with Deepa Krishnan, Chief Marketing Officer of international powerhouse Tata Starbucks - a joint venture between Starbucks and India's Tata Consumer Products.

In this fascinating conversation Deepa shares insights on Tata Starbucks’ expansion strategy, how Indian coffee culture is evolving and what is driving this vast and vibrant market.

Credits music: "My Love" by Baron Goodlove in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The coffee at-home revolution – Part 2

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 11:11:21 +0100

In today's episode we're continuing our exploration of the fast-developing coffee at-home market and how businesses can harness growth opportunities in this lucrative segment.

In part two, we focus on retail coffee and chat with Will Corby, Director of Coffee and Social Impact at Pact Coffee, Jon Allen, Creative Director, Onyx Coffee Lab and Jonny England, Director of Coffee, Löfbergs UK&I to find out what types of coffee consumers are brewing at home and the trends that are shaping the future of the at-home coffee market.

Catch up on part one here.

Credits music: "Do You" by Amira B in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The coffee at-home revolution – Part 1

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 26 May 2023 11:05:52 +0100

On the podcast today we're kicking off a two-part series exploring the remarkable growth of the at-home specialty coffee market and the rise of the home barista.

In part one, we focus on at-home coffee equipment and speak with Dave Gubbin, President, Sage Appliances EMEA and John Holmquist, Commercial and Residential Sales Manager, Seattle Coffee Gear to uncover the growing demand for high-end home coffee machines across the UK, Europe and the US.

We also speak with Andrew Pautler, Founder of Instagram community and blog Pull & Pour Coffee to explore the latest coffee equipment trends among home consumers and find out how making quality espresso at home is becoming more and more accessible.

Credits music: "Life in a Box" by Kelsey Edwards in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The Little Local

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 12 May 2023 04:00:00 +0100

On the podcast today, we're speaking with three successful independent London operators to uncover the secrets to a thriving neighbourhood cafe and the role coffee shops play within the local community.

In conversations with Peter Dore-Smith, Founder Kaffeine, Kim Hargreaves, Founder and Managing Director, Boki Coffee, and Dani Reid and Agnes Potter, Co-founders, Potter & Reid, we discuss how to build a loyal local following, foster meaningful interactions between customers and staff, and find out why these entrepreneurs have chosen not to rapidly scale their business.

Credits music: "Goddess" by MJ Ultra in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Digital loyalty apps: Game-changing benefits

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:02:13 +0100

On the podcast today we're exploring the rise of digital loyalty apps and how these tools are revolutionising the way operators engage with their customers.

We first speak with two leading coffee shop app developers, Miles Bailey and Tim Silbermann, Founders of RWRD and Ali Al Ebrahim, Founder and CEO, COFE App, to understand the vast benefits these technologies can generate for operators.

We then speak with James Flett, Head of Marketing, Caffè Nero to find out how the brand uses gamification and personalised communication to drive engagement and repeat business.

Credits music: "Prey" by Kavalla in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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Celebrating The London Coffee Festival

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:47:50 +0100

The London Coffee Festival returns from 20 to 23 April 2023 and with it comes a four day celebration of London’s vibrant coffee scene and the incredible people and communities that help the coffee industry continue to thrive.

Now entering its 12th year, The London Coffee Festival has grown to a formidable event, featuring 200+ exhibitors and welcoming over 30,000 trade and consumer visitors through its doors each year.

So to celebrate the legacy and the future of this iconic coffee event, we’re speaking with regular exhibitors and visitors from over the years to hear their favourite memories of the Festival, the business benefits of exhibiting and share advice on how to get the most from attending trade shows.

We'll hear from Edwin Harrison, Founder, Artisan and Curious Roo Coffee Roasters, Abigail Forsyth, CEO, KeepCup, Agostino Luggeri and Enzo Frangiamore, Founders, Mulmar, Daniel Clarke, Commercial Director UK & Ireland and Louise Felton, Group Regional Director, UK & Ireland, Gruppo Cimbali, Freda Yuan, Director of Coffee, Origin Coffee Roasters, Kirby Sinclair, Co-founder, The Roasting Party, and accessibility consultant Tim Blanchard.

Not got your ticket yet? Your can apply for a free Industry Day ticket here: londoncoffeefestival.com/Accreditation/Menu

Credits music: London's on Fire by Daisy Chute in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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How restaurants deliver exceptional customer experience

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 14:21:54 +0100

On the podcast this week we're opening the door to the culinary world to find out how successful restaurant operators deliver consistent and high-quality customer service experiences for their guests.

We first speak with Alex Susskind, Professor of Food and Beverage Management at Cornell University’s Nolan School to understand the conceptual framework behind creating exceptional customer service.

We also speak with two standout restaurant operators, Laura Harper-Hinton, CEO and Co-Founder, Caravan, and Cameron Maher, Group Front of House Manager, Trader House Group, to see how these strategies work in practice and explore the policies and processes that blend technology with people management systems.

Credits music: 'Bad Girl' by Satin Beige in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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The critical Head of Coffee role

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 15:32:11 +0000

On the podcast this week we're exploring the Head of Coffee role in different hospitality businesses and the crucial function it plays in delivering the perfect coffee experience.

In conversations with Ryan Garrick, Head of Coffee, WatchHouse, Christopher Jordan, Group Head of Coffee Caffè Nero, Jennifer Salamone, VP of Operations and Antonia Petaccio, Head of Coffee Training DC, at Tatte Bakery, we unpack the broad set of responsibilities that fall under the Head of Coffee role, from leading the sourcing and roasting to barista training and managing external partners. We also discuss the career progression to become Head of Coffee, share advice for baristas looking to take the next step up and find out what it takes to succeed.

Credits music: "Don't" by Marley collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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The business of coffee media

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 14:43:43 +0000

On the podcast this week we're speaking with three highly-talented and passionate coffee journalists to explore the crucial role media plays in developing the specialty coffee industry.

In conversations with Nick Brown, Founding Editor, Daily Coffee News, Michal Molcan, Founder, Standart, and Nicole Ou, Manager Coffee T&I, we discuss the challenges and global opportunities for coffee media businesses, the future of print publishing, and how these titles are diversifying and adapting to a changing landscape.

Find out more about Roast Summit 2023 here: https://www.roastmagazine.com/roastsummit

Credits music: "Wolf Cry" by Katie Ferrara in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Journey to become the world's best: A conversation with Geranium's Søren Ledet

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 04:30:00 +0000

Today on the podcast we’re revisiting a conversation with Søren Ledet from last week’s episode exploring the world of coffee and fine dining.

Søren is Co-Founder and General Manager of the world-renowned restaurant Geranium - a three-Michelin-starred dining experience in Copengagen, which last year was named the best restaurant in the world by the 50 best awards.

In this conversation, Søren offered so many fascinating insights and learnings from his vast experience running a standout hospitality business that we felt we had to release the entire conversation in full.

Credits music: Replay by Natalie Shay in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Coffee in fine dining

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 04:00:00 +0000

On the podcast today we're stepping into the world of fine dining to explore the role of coffee in high-end restaurants and how restauranteurs are elevating their coffee standards.

We speak with Søren Ledet, Co-founder and General Manager of Copenhagen's Geranium, to find out how one of the world's finest dining establishments runs its coffee programme and uses storytelling and theatre to deliver a captivating coffee experience.

We also speak with Olivier Fellous, General Manager, La Manufacture - a joint venture between Lavazza and chef Alain Ducasse - to discuss the synergies between the coffee and fine dining worlds, and Myles Shapcott, Commercial Director, Origin Coffee Roasters, to explore the growing opportunities for specialty roasting brands to expand into this lucrative market.

Credits music: Another Lonely Night by TREVAN in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Unlocking Vietnam's true potential

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 13:18:19 +0000

On the podcast today we're heading to Vietnam to explore how this rapidly diversifying market is breaking away from tradition and embracing new coffee drinking opportunities .

In conversations with Will Frith, coffee coach and Co-founder, Building Coffee, academic Sarah Grant, and Sahra Nguyen, CEO and Founder, Nguyen Coffee Supply, we discuss the complex history of Vietnamese coffee exports, the burgeoning specialty coffee scene in Ho Chi Minh City, and the growing international appreciation of high-grade Vietnamese Robusta coffee.

Credits music: Hurry Slow by Olivia Junholm in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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A life of adventure – In conversation with Tony Papas

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 16:26:37 +0000

In today’s episode we’re bringing you an interview with a true hospitality legend and genuine artisan, Tony Papas. Tony is a multi-faceted entrepreneur, with a global career spanning Michelin-starred restaurants, a boutique bakery, specialty coffee and most recently, developing an olive farm in Southern Italy.

In this conversation, Tony discusses his early background in hospitality before joining New Zealand-based specialty roaster Allpress Espresso and launching the business in London and Europe.

Tony also shares his business instinct of knowing when to jump in and when to step away and the importance of good communication and fostering a cohesive team culture by bringing every member of the team along on the adventure.

Credits music: "Don't Delete Me" by Lisa Crawley in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Understanding consumer behaviour

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 15:50:37 +0000

In today's episode we're diving into the topic of market research and exploring how operators can gain a deeper understanding of their consumers.

In conversations with Dr. Ernest Baskin, Associate Professor, St. Joseph’s University of Philadelphia, Blonnie Whist, Insight Director, Lumina Intelligence, and JP Then, Co-founder of Crosstown and Founder of online ordering system Slerp, we unpack the latest behavioural trends in hospitality and find out how gathering regular consumer data and insight can help operators better understand their trading environment and maximise sales.

Credits music: "Do You Know" by Steve Ray Ladson in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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The quest for quality: A conversation with George Howell

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 09:59:48 +0000

To kick off 2023 we’re bringing you an interview with a true industry legend – the one and only George Howell, a name synonymous with coffee excellence.

Since the 1980s George has played an integral role in the development of specialty coffee in Western markets – pioneering the third-wave coffee movement and championing single origin coffees and direct trade.

In this conversation George shares details of his early coffee career and experiences, including the ‘unlikely’ sale of his small Boston-based coffee chain to Starbucks. He also discusses balancing business with his true passion for coffee discovery and his desire to share and highlight the highest-quality coffees from around the world.

Credits music: "Unreliable" by Dudley Music in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Coffee and alcohol: Two worlds combine

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:08:50 +0000

With the festive season well under way we thought now was the perfect time to indulge our minds in the exciting topic of coffee and alcohol and find out how these two beverages coexist seamlessly across different hospitality settings.

In conversations with Professor Jonathan Morris, Research Professor at Hertfordshire University, Michelle Cannone, Global Brand Director, Away from Home and Mattia Pastori, Brand Ambassador at Lavazza, we explore alcohol's historical connection with coffee, the synergies between the two beverages and the tradition and global influence of the Italian Caffe Bar.

Credits music: "Make Me" by Jackson Sage in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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The Saudi coffee shop boom

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 14:24:01 +0000

On the podcast this week, we're exploring the remarkable growth of cafés in Saudi Arabia and why coffee is fast-becoming big business in the Middle East powerhouse.

In conversations with Abdullah Al Harazi, Technical Training Manager, Barn's, Sara Alali, Founder, THAT Boutique Café, and Fadi Hamoud, COO and Ali Alkhabbaz, Head of Coffee, Nejoud Restaurant Management Company, we discuss Saudi's historical coffee culture, the trends that are shaping the market today, and the growth opportunities for homegrown and international coffee businesses.

Credits music: "All I know" by Norman Alexander in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Executing a clear value proposition — A conversation with Nick Stone

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 11:12:58 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re bringing you a feature length interview with Nick Stone, CEO and Founder of Bluestone Lane - an Australian inspired, boutique hospitality chain with 62 locations in major cities across the US.

In this fascinating conversation, Nick shares his extraordinary insight, key business learnings and wisdom gained from his multifaceted career. He also discusses the importance of developing a distinct and well-communicated value proposition and how human connection and community are central to the essence of Bluestone Lane.

Credits music: "Beat the Blue" by KIA in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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The road ahead for drive-thru coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 13:18:13 +0000

On the podcast today we're exploring the business case for drive-thru coffee and the potential for this highly-profitable format to expand across new market segments and geographies.

In conversation with Kevin Hydes, Chief Commercial Officer, Tim Hortons, UK&I, Brett Bolwell, CEO, Barista Technology, and coffee historian Amanda Whitt, we explore the historical rise of drive-thru coffee in the US, the gravitation towards convenience post-Covid, and the format's growing popularity in the UK, Australia and beyond.

Credits music: "The Great Outdoors" by Richard James aka HOLNE in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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The never-ending quest for quality – A conversation with Ralf Rüller of The Barn

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 16:01:53 +0000

This week we’re chatting with Ralf Rüller, Founder, CEO and creative force behind The Barn - a curated specialty coffee business with a roastery and 10 coffee shops in Berlin, plus three international stores, spanning Mallorca, Dubai, and most recently Seoul in Korea.

In this conversation Ralf shares his entrepreneurial journey from a career in banking and a stint in acting school in London before stepping into the world of coffee and founding his own business. He also discusses his ambitions for international expansion, and how his total obsession with quality has always been at the core of his business philosophy.

Credits music: "Little Pieces" by Pablo Mir-Mir in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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The energy crisis

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 12:05:22 +0000

On the podcast this week we're examining the impact of soaring energy prices and how café operators are navigating this unprecedented crisis.

We first speak with Murielle Gagnebin, Senior Associate of EU Energy Policy at Agora Energiewende, to understand how the energy crisis arose and how long policymakers expect it will last. We also speak with Henry Ayers, Co-Founder, The Gentlemen Baristas and Konstantinos Konstantinopoulos, CEO, Coffee Island about the pressures operators are facing and how they are managing the steep increase in costs across their businesses.

Credits music: "Life Lives Inside" by Flo Perlin and Pilgrim’s Dream in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Roland Horne – The vision and drive behind WatchHouse

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 13:09:45 +0100

On the podcast this week we’re bringing you a feature length interview with Roland Horne, Founder & CEO of WatchHouse – a boutique specialty coffee business with 10 locations across London, and five new UK sites already in design plus a flagship store scheduled to open in Manhattan in 2023.

In this conversation, Roland discusses his entrepreneurial vision and growth ambitions for the business and shares how his risk-on mindset and desire to leave a meaningful legacy has helped to rapidly propel WatchHouse.

Credits music: "Don't Give Up" by Yolanda Mutesasira in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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A quiet achiever – In conversation with Anne Lunell

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 10:00:52 +0100

This week we’re bringing you a very special bonus episode with Anne Lunell, a former Swedish Barista Champion, international coffee judge and the co-visionary behind Koppi Coffee Roasters - an internationally acclaimed coffee roaster based in the Swedish town of Helsingborg.

In this candid conversation, Anne discusses the importance of building a values-based business and shares why taking a step back and simplifying Koppi’s business model has created a fundamental work-life balance that so many successful entrepreneurs crave.

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Spotlight on Melbourne's specialty coffee scene

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 11:10:24 +0100

To celebrate the World Barista Championship taking place at Melbourne International Coffee Expo next week, we're turning the spotlight on this highly influential coffee city to explore the past, present and future of Melbourne's specialty coffee scene.

In conversations with Ross Quail, Sales Director for Asia Pacific, Hemro International, Mark Dundon, Co-owner, Seven Seeds, and Sean Edwards, Founder, Cafe Culture magazine and the Golden Bean awards, we explore how Melbourne's coffee landscape has evolved over the last 20 years, how the city's culinary scene played an important role in the growth of cafe culture, and why Melbourne continues to inspire coffee businesses around the world today.

Credits music: "Love & Distance" by Hollie Rogers, feat. Jamie Lawson and Robben Ford in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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A reluctant World Barista Champion - A conversation with Gwilym Davies

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0100

Last week in our episode on coffee competitions we featured a clip from a conversation with 2009 World Barista Champion Gwilym Davies and today we bring you the interview in full.

Gwilym is the founder of London’s iconic Prufrock cafe, is a coffee judge, runs his own barista training centre and recently launched his own coffee brand - The Naughty Dog.

In this conversation, Gwilym shares a powerful story of personal growth, how becoming a reluctant winner ended up defining his coffee career, and why now is the time to hand the portafilter to the next generation of coffee professionals.

Credits music: "Uncharted Waters" by Cloudy Galvez in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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The serious business of coffee competitions

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 10:58:28 +0100

On the podcast this week, we're pulling back the curtain on the world of coffee competitions and exploring their profound impact on the coffee industry.

We chat with competition organisers, judges and barista champions, Stephen Morrissey, of the Specialty Coffee Association, Gwilym Davies, Morgan Eckroth and Rastislav Kasár, to understand the role competitions play in the community, how they elevate coffee standards, and find out what it takes to win.

Credits music: "Summer is for falling in love" by Sarah Kang in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Magic Realism with Isabela Raposeiras of Coffee Lab São Paulo

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 13:58:32 +0100

This week we’re bringing you a very special bonus episode with Isabela Raposeiras, former Brazilian Barista Champion and Founder of the pioneering specialty coffee and coffee education business, Coffee Lab in São Paulo.

In this fascinating conversation, Isabela shares her extraordinary journey motivated by living through a family bankruptcy, to owning one of the best coffee shops in the world.

She also discusses the importance of loyal relationships with coffee producers, building a brand that matches your values, and why learning to manage people has been one of the most challenging, yet rewarding aspects of her career.

Credits music: "Curandeiras" by Isadora Canto

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The importance of training and people development

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 14:50:39 +0100

Coffee and hospitality is truly a people business and on the podcast this week we’re highlighting the importance of investing time and resources in staff training and their career development.

In conversations with Tim Sturk, Founder, Cherry Coffee Training, Ben Helt, Training Director, Specialty Coffee Association, and Diana Getchius, VP of Human Resources, Union Square Hospitality Group, we find out what a winning training programme looks like, how to tailor new starter and company-wide inductions and discuss the business benefits of investing in people development.

Learn more about SCA's programmes here: Coffee Skills Program, Coffee Sustainability Program, and Coffee Technicians Program.

Credits music: Superwoman, Be Like You, by MYLA in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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How to build a coffee brand

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 16:52:47 +0100

On the podcast this week we’re walking through the fundamentals of building a coffee brand and how to express that concept across every aspect of the business.

We chat with Ibrahim Ibrahim, Managing Director of branding agency Portland Design, who unpacks his framework for ideating and rolling out a successful hospitality concept.

We also speak with two standout coffee operators, Talor Browne, Founder, Talormade, and Kyle Glanville, Co-founder, Go Get ‘Em Tiger to understand how they translate their business mission into an impactful coffee brand and a rich customer experience.

Grab a copy of Ibrahim's new book "Future Ready Retail" here.

Credits music: "Hot Coffee" by Say No More and Nutty P in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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Successful design and build of coffee shops

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 16:59:55 +0100

On the podcast this week we're investigating the design and build-out process for cafés to understand exactly what's required each step of the way when opening a new hospitality venue.

We chat with Anna Burles, CEO and Founder of contemporary design agency Run For The Hills, who takes us through the intricate process of designing a new space. We also speak with two leading operators, Valdemar Halbye, Chief Growth Officer, Joe & The Juice, and Mark Soar, Head of Property, Redemption Roasters about the different considerations, challenges, and risks when rolling out multiple new venues.

Credits music: "Kicks" by Crawford Mack in collaboration with The Coffee Music Project

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The supply chain crisis in coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 15:22:23 +0100

This week on the podcast, we're exploring the global supply chain crisis and how it is impacting coffee shop operators around the world.

We chat with Xavier Martinez, Global Supply Chain Officer, Costa Coffee, Jack Brewitt, CEO and founder, 92 Degrees, and Gert-Jan Eling, Operations Manager, Algrano, to find out how coffee businesses are navigating these challenges and the medium and short-term solutions to supply disruptions.

Credits music: "Engines Off" by Stealing Signs for The Coffee Music Project

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Home coffee roasting: A slow burn market

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 08:39:43 +0100

On the podcast today we’re exploring the market for home coffee roasting and its potential to resonate with the sophisticated home coffee consumer.

In conversations with Andrew Stordy, founder of IKAWA, Tom Owen, Co-founder, Sweet Maria's, and author and editor Kenneth Davids, we uncover the history of home roasting, find out who the consumers are that roast at home, and address the barriers to growth for this niche segment.

Credits music: "Mother Nature" by Ellie Harris for The Coffee Music Project

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Elevating the daily grind

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 09:48:01 +0100

On the podcast this week we’re examining the market for high end coffee grinders and their essential role in the coffee making process.

In conversations with Dale Harris, World Barista Champion and Global New Product & Business Development at Hasbean / Ozone Coffee Roasters, Lena Frick, Head Of Marketing, Hemro Group, and Lauro Fioretti, Chief Engineer, Simonelli Group, we discuss just how important grinders are in achieving coffee quality, how much and where operators should be investing in new equipment, and what the future is for grinding technology.

Credits music: “She” by Karla Silva for The Coffee Music Project

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Navigating the realities of soaring inflation

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 27 May 2022 04:00:00 +0100

On the podcast this week we’re exploring the impact of soaring inflation on the global economy and the rising pressures on hospitality operators.

We speak with Will Hawkley, Global Head of Leisure & Hospitality, KPMG, Chris Ammermann, Director of Operations, Caravan, and Jim Ragas, President & CEO, The Second Cup Coffee Company, to understand where inflation is stemming from, how operators can navigate these challenges, and the extent to which rising costs are affecting profitability.

Credits music: "Flaws & Ceilings" by Frank Hamilton Ft. Lauren Aquilina

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The growing business case for decaffeinated coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 13 May 2022 12:29:34 +0100

This week on the podcast we’re exploring the growing demand for decaffeinated coffee and its increasing potential in the specialty landscape.

In conversations with Laura Burton, Marketing Lead for Coffee, Taylors of Harrogate, Chris Kornman, Director of Education, Royal Coffee, and Emmanuel Dias, VP of Trading for Europe, Swiss Water, we discuss the different processes for removing caffeine, find out how big the decaf market is globally and what the driving trends are for this small but highly promising market segment.

You can find out more about Chris Kornman's book "Green Coffee: A Guide for Roasters and Buyers" here.

Credits music: “I still miss you” by Emma Stevens for The Coffee Music Project

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Diversity and inclusion in the coffee industry

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 10:58:14 +0100

On the podcast this week we’re addressing the important topic of diversity and inclusion across the coffee industry.

We’ll be exploring why it is important to have a diverse workforce, what it means to be truly inclusive, and the business benefits of building a welcoming environment for both customers and staff.

To help us tackle these complex questions and shed light on some different employee and customer experiences, we’ll be talking with Lem Butler, Co-Founder, Black & White Coffee Roasters, Jessica Worden, Head of Coffee, Gail’s Bakery, and accessibility consultant Tim Blanchard.

Credits music: "I gotta hope" by Coco for The Coffee Music Project

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The future of coffee capsules

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 10:53:45 +0100

On the podcast this week we’re exploring the multi-billion dollar coffee capsule industry, to uncover the opportunities for pods and capsules, and understand why many specialty coffee players have recently entered the space.

In conversations with Jason Webber, B2C Commercial Director, Nespresso UK, Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood, Founder, Colonna Coffee and Adrienne Roberts, CEO, Allpress Espresso, we’ll examine the long-term potential of this rapidly growing segment and ask whether coffee capsules are a threat or a complement to coffee shops and home espresso machines.

Credits music: "We Are All Just Human" by Catherine Taylor Dawson for The Coffee Music Project

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Location, Location, Location

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 13:12:40 +0000

On the podcast this week, we're discussing how Covid has impacted the real estate market for coffee and hospitality businesses and why finding the right site can make or break any new café opening.

In conversations with Russel Helbling, Managing Director, Katz & Associates, Heather Perry, VP, Klatch Coffee, and Julia Wilkinson, Restaurant Director at Shaftesbury, we'll explore the success factors that make for a great coffee shop location, and find out what’s happening to rents and site availability across London, New York and Los Angeles.

Credits music: "The Woman That Made Me" by Abrielle Scharff, winner of The Coffee Music Project 2022

Join us at The London Coffee Festival 2022 from 31 March to 3 April at The Old Truman Brewery. Stop by our stand and say hi!

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A human approach to scaling a coffee business – a conversation with Kris Schackman

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 04:00:00 +0000

Today we’re catching up with Kris Schackman, Co-founder of Berlin’s iconic coffee chain Five Elephant. In this conversation, we learn about Kris’ early journey from the film industry into coffee, the evolution of the German specialty scene over the last decade, and the key decisions that have shaped the creation of one of the most respected roastery cafes in Europe.

Credits music: "Rain Pour Down" by IOVA for The Coffee Music Project

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The burgeoning UK specialty coffee market

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 12:22:22 +0000

On the podcast this week, we’re hitting the streets of the UK to discover what’s happening across the nation’s fast-growing specialty coffee market.

From London to Birmingham, Edinburgh and beyond, the specialty segment has seen remarkable growth in the 20 years since coffee consumption exploded across the UK high streets.

To find out what’s next for this exciting market and the challenges and opportunities for independent multi-site operators in different regions, we speak with Roland Horne, Founder and CEO, WatchHouse, Will Kenney, Commercial Director, 200 Degrees, and John Thompson, Co-owner, Artisan Roast.

Read the findings from Allegra's latest research on the UK coffee shop market here: Project Café UK 2022

Credits music: 'Strong Coffee' by Tally Spear for The Coffee Music Project

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Biophilia: Living-conscious design in hospitality spaces

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 10:34:04 +0000

On the podcast today we’re entering the world of biophilia – a powerful human-centric design philosophy that’s making inroads to the mainstream and revolutionising hospitality spaces worldwide.

To help us get to grips with the basics of biophilia and understand the health promoting benefits of reconnecting with nature, we’re speaking with Oliver Heath, one of the world’s leading thinkers in biophilic design.

We’ll also hear from Shiyun Qian, Founder of Nota Architects in China, and Tim Schroeder, Founder of London-based specialty café group Hagen, to further see how these design principles can be applied to hospitality spaces and discover the business benefits of biophilia in café operations.

To dive deeper into Oliver Heath’s work, you can read his white paper ‘Creating Positive Spaces using Biophilic Design’ here. For ideas on how to incorporate biophilic design into the home, Oliver has also authored the book ‘Design A Healthy Home’ which can be purchased from all major retailers.

Credits music: ‘Coffee in Your Cup’ by Daisy Chute for The Coffee Music Project

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New York City’s specialty coffee scene: The past, present and future

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 10:16:03 +0000

On today’s podcast we’re heading to the city that never sleeps to explore the past, present and future of New York’s influential specialty coffee scene.

We’ll be speaking with coffee writer Ever Meister to find out how New York became a global centre for coffee culture and why the city's love affair with caffeine endures to this day

We’ll also hear from the founders of two iconic NYC specialty coffee chains, Chi Sum Ngai and Kaleena Teoh of Coffee Project New York, and Caroline Bell of Café Grumpy, to discover what’s happening on the streets of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond and get their take on where the specialty market is headed.

Credits music: "Friends" by Katie Kittermaster for The Coffee Music Project

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The importance of water in coffee operations

World Coffee Portal — Sat, 15 Jan 2022 04:00:00 +0000

On the podcast this week, we’re diving into the world of water for coffee and unpacking its impact on café operations.

What kind of water makes for an excellent espresso and for well-running machines? How should coffee operators embed water management systems into their day-to-day operations?

To help answer these questions and understand the science of water a little deeper we’re speaking with Samantha Scoles, Head of Beverage at BRITA Professional UK, Dr. Marco Wellinger, research associate at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, and two coffee shop operators, Jon Whyte of Bean Coffee, and Mike Logue of Redemption Roasters.

To go even deeper into coffee science you can enrol in the online course to receive a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Coffee Excellence at Zurich University of Applied Sciences

Credits Music: Coffee Bean by Zaniah Harris, winner of the Coffee Music Project 2021

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Building a long-term values-based business – a conversation with Klaus Thomsen

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 12:00:20 +0000

To kick off 2022 we bring you a very special bonus episode with Klaus Thomsen, co-founder of the legendary Coffee Collective – a boutique specialty coffee chain, roastery, and bakery based in Copenhagen, Denmark.

In this episode, we discuss Klaus’ early career and inspiration, the vision and culture behind Coffee Collective, and his key learnings to creating a successful and sustainable coffee business.

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Unlocking the potential of tea in coffee shops

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 12:03:54 +0000

On the podcast today we’re shifting our focus outside of coffee to steep ourselves in the world of tea.

The tea industry is enormous, with a long and rich history. In fact, tea is the most consumed hot beverage globally. Yet in many coffee shops around the world, the consumer experience for tea falls short.

What does an outstanding tea offer look like? What are the financial rewards for getting tea right? How can coffee operators create an enticing tea value proposition? To help us answer these questions, we’re speaking with Kai Ellerbrock, Managing Partner, Market Grounds, David Veal, Executive Director of The European Speciality Tea Association, and Oscar Woolley, Co-owner, Suki Tea Makers.

Credits music: 'Wake me up' by Faith Child for the Coffee Music Project

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Creating a powerful team culture to attract talent

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 10:30:59 +0000

On the podcast this week, we’re continuing our exploration of hiring strategies in the wake of the current hospitality staffing crisis. In part one, we covered how small independent operators are navigating this issue and today we’re turning our attention to larger scaled hospitality chains.

In conversations with Danielle Caserta, Chief People Officer at Bluestone Lane, and Thomas Nørøxe, CEO, Joe & The Juice, we discuss the importance of building team culture and hear how these established operators are rethinking how they attract talent to their business.

Credits music: 'Bout A Thing' by Julia Cole for the Coffee Music Project

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Hospitality: The new normal for recruiting talent

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 14:14:29 +0000

The hospitality industry is experiencing one of the biggest staffing shortages in living memory. We covered the scale of the issue in a July 2021 episode and today, we’re returning to the topic to explore the solutions independent operators are trialling to attract and retain staff in the current climate.

In this episode, we speak to small business owners from the UK and Europe and a tech-based recruitment start-up to hear how they are tackling this issue.

Peter Dore-Smith, Founder of London’s iconic café brand Kaffeine, outlines his framework for hiring talent and ensuring staff are able to enjoy a good work life balance.

Marian Plajdicko, Owner of Berlin-based Happy Baristas, shares how he’s pivoted his recruitment strategy and new approaches for targeting potential employees.

Shelagh Ryan and Jo Mason, Co-founder and Operational Director, Lantana, discuss the new normal and improving working conditions for hospitality staff.

Karina Coen, Managing Director of Hospitality Operations at Stint, shares how her start-up company is helping hospitality businesses address staffing pain points and nurture their core team of skilled workers.

Read more from Peter Dore-Smith's blog 'Kaffeine Alumni: 12 Years of Legends' here.

Credits music: "Summer Blue" by Iris Lune for the Coffee Music Project

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Spotlight on Paris’ burgeoning specialty coffee scene

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 10:09:52 +0000

Fresh from Le Paris Café Festival last week, today we’re putting the spotlight on the French capital and diving into the past, present and future of the rapidly changing specialty coffee scene across France.

In conversations with influential coffee operators, major roasters and suppliers, we explore the shift in consumer demand for high-quality coffee and the impact Covid-19 has had on French drinking habits and Parisian coffee culture.

Michael McCauley, Coffee Quality & Training Director, Cafés Richard, gives us a perspective on how the French coffee scene has evolved in the last 30 years.

Tom Clark, Co-founder & CEO, Coutume shares the impact of Covid-19 on the Parisian coffee shop market and the challenges operators are facing today.

Sandra Bouckenooghe, ambassador for La Marzocco France, discusses the new generation of specialty coffee professionals and what’s next for the French coffee scene.

Credits music: "Paris" by Bandits on the Run, winners of the Coffee Music Project 2017.

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The carbon footprint of coffee roasting

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 11:51:01 +0100

In the third episode of our mini-series on environmental sustainability across the coffee industry, we’re shifting the focus to carbon reduction in coffee roasteries.

In conversations with a leading academic, an electric roaster manufacturer, and coffee roasters, large and small, we unpack where carbon is generated once green coffee leaves the farm and how coffee roasters can make their operations as sustainable as possible.

Mark Maslin, Professor of Earth Systems Science at University College London provides an overview of the life cycle of a cup of coffee and where carbon is generated across the supply chain.

Grayson Caldwell, Head of Sustainability, Bellwether Coffee, discusses the urgent need to electrify coffee roasting and the environmental benefits vs. traditional gas roasting.

Ewan Reid, Managing Director, Matthew Algie, shares how his business is tackling the challenges of carbon production in large-scale roasting operations.

Bengt Ove Hagen, Production Director, Joh. Johannson Kaffe shares how his team designed a brand new eco-focused roasting facility and their ambitions to become one of the world’s most sustainable coffee roasters.

Read more on Bellwether’s annual sustainability report here.

Credits music: “Rage” by Kate Klein in association with the Coffee Music Project

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Investments, mergers and acquisitions in coffee operations

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 11:16:42 +0100

Today on the podcast we’re speaking with leading investors and experienced entrepreneurs to lift the lid on the world of mergers, acquisitions, and investment in the coffee space.

What does a great hospitality business look like from the perspective of an investor? In what circumstances should you merge your business with another? What type of investor should you be looking for and who should you avoid?

To help us answer these big questions, we speak with Henry McGovern, co-founder of McWin Investments – a recent investor in GAIL's Bakery, Nils Erichsen former Founding Partner of HEMRO Group and now CEO of Wave Investments, and David Abrahamovitch, CEO of Grind, to get their advice on building a successful coffee business and attracting investment.

Credits music: RTime by 1403 in association with the Coffee Music Project

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The carbon footprint of coffee shops

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 08:30:27 +0100

In the second part of our mini-series exploring eco-sustainability across the coffee industry, we turn the spotlight on carbon generation in the coffee shop.

In conversations with a café consultant and leading operators from Los Angeles, London and Singapore, we uncover exactly where and when carbon is being generated in coffee shops, what contributes the highest emissions in the store, and ask what owners can do to reduce their carbon footprint.

Tim Ridley, Founder, United Baristas, provides a framework for understanding the carbon footprint of a cup of coffee and what that means for cafe owners.

Zayde Naquib, CEO of Bar Nine, and Ten, discusses his approach to reducing waste and carbon emissions at his ecologically progressive cafes in Los Angeles.

Lizzie Gurr, COO, Hasbean and Ozone Coffee, shares the ways her team are tackling their carbon footprint and their commitments to whole-cycle cooking.

Pamela Chng, Founder, Bettr Group in Singapore, discusses the challenges of balancing business needs with the need to reduce the carbon footprint of cafes.

Read more of United Barista's resources on reducing carbon emissions at unitedbaristas.com/CO2

Credits music: California Sky by Chanel Yates in association with The Coffee Music Project

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Celebrating the true artisan – a conversation with La Marzocco’s Paul Kelly

World Coffee Portal — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 04:00:00 +0100

Today we’re bringing you a very special episode in anticipation of the 10th anniversary of the La Marzocco True Artisan Café at the London Coffee Festival taking place later this month.

Industry legend Paul Kelly, General Manager of La Marzocco UK & Ireland, joins Jeffrey Young in the studio to explore the specialty coffee trends that have changed the face of coffee culture over the last decade, the turbulence of the Covid-era, and the bright future that lies ahead for our industry.

Credits music: SENDME by Bobbie Harvey, winner of the Coffee Music Project 2021 summer edition.

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Environmental sustainability at origin

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 14:03:11 +0100

Kicking off a new series on the podcast exploring ecological sustainability across the coffee supply chain, we’re examining the environmental impact of coffee farming at origin.

Finding solutions to the complicated problems caused by the climate crisis is vital to the future viability of coffee, and the planet. Throughout series, we’ll uncover how the coffee industry is responding to these challenges, showcase best practices and offer a glimpse into the future.

In this episode, we speak with coffee growers, traders, and retailers, to address key ecological issues at origin and ask, what do coffee farmers need from coffee retailers to support their environmental initiatives?

Katie Carguilo, Western Coffee Manager, Counter Culture Coffee, highlights how environmental sustainability is directly tied to farmer economics and the prices they earn.

Diego Robelo, General Manager at Aquiares Estate Coffee, shares the sustainable agroforestry systems at his coffee farm and the importance of environmentally focused certifications.

Carlos Ortiz, Volcafe Way Manager at Volcafe, discusses the connection between commercial and environmental needs of coffee roasters and the potential for green credits for coffee farmers.

Credits music: Hot Coffee by Say No More ft Nutty P. in association with the Coffee Music Project

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

The critical role of the general manager

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 04:00:00 +0100

Today we’re exploring the importance of the general manager in café operations and unpacking how this pivotal role can mean the difference between hospitality businesses operating at a loss or at a profit.

In conversations with experienced operators and a leading management academic, we ask what general managers need from owner operators to thrive and deliver financial success and how to engage and retain these star employees.

Christopher Muller PhD, author of the ground-breaking book: “The Leader of Managers”, shares some of the management models that have helped transform the role of the GM in hospitality, and highlights the importance of adequately incentivising these key members of staff.

Tim Ridley, founder of United Baristas, speaks about the importance of treating general managers with compassion and investing time to build a nurturing workplace culture.

Lizzie Gurr, Chief Operating Officer of Ozone Coffee Roasters and Hasbean, shares the key qualities she looks for when hiring operational managers across her businesses.

Credits music: Fumes by Richard James, Winner of the Coffee Music Project 2019

For more on Christopher Muller’s management research, pick up a copy of his book “The Leader of Managers”

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Industry parallels – coffee vs. wine

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 12:53:36 +0100

On the podcast this week, we’re embracing the spirit of summer and diving into the world of wine to explore its parallels with coffee.

The wine industry is often considered ahead of the curve compared to coffee, but is that always the case? In conversations with leading wine and coffee experts, we explore the history and influence of these two worlds to offer a deeper understanding of the wine market and how to maximise its potential in coffee businesses.

Morten Scholer, coffee and wine author provides a broad overview of the similarities and differences between these two industries.

Phil Barnet, Sales Manager at Les Caves de Pyrene, discusses the dramatic shifts in the consumption and production of wine in the past three decades.

Robert Robinson, Co-founder of Notes Coffee Roasters, shares how his hospitality venues deliver a quality coffee offering during the day and an equally-good wine experience by night.

For a detailed comparison of the coffee and wine industries, pick up a copy of Morten Scholer’s book – Coffee and Wine: Two Worlds Compared.

Credits music: Summer Night Vibes by Ellie Harris for the Coffee Music Project

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

The hospitality staffing crisis

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 10:26:49 +0100

On the podcast today we examine the staffing crisis affecting hospitality businesses globally and the impact Covid-19 and Brexit has had on the hiring landscape.

In conversations with trade representatives and leading operators from London and New York, we explore the long-term challenges of developing meaningful careers within the hospitality space and solutions for attracting and retaining the brightest talent.

Tony Sophoclides, Strategic Affairs Director for the trade association UKHospitality, provides a macro overview on the current staff shortages felt across the UK.

Jessica Worden, Head of Coffee, GAIL’s, highlights the importance of being clear about your values and hiring people who embrace your vision.

Jonathan Rubinstein, CEO, Joe Coffee, shares how his company navigated the sudden impact of Covid-19 and the staff shortages experienced on re-opening.

We also hear from Freddie Speed, a restaurant general manager who has recently taken a pause from the industry, who gives insight on why a number of hospitality professionals are now considering alternative careers.

Credits music: New York Makes Me Cry by Abrielle Scharff, a former finalist for the Coffee Music Project NYC.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Starbucks at 50

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:29:43 +0100

As the world’s largest coffee chain turns 50, we explore Starbucks’ enduring influence on the business of coffee. In a collaboration with 5THWAVE magazine, we bring you insights from six global coffee professionals as they reflect on Starbucks' cultural legacy.

In a series of conversations with Jeffrey Young, we hear from coffee historian, Professor Jonathan Morris, Kent Bakke, Board Member, La Marzocco, Maurizio Guili, Corporate Strategy Executive for Simonelli Group, Scott Rao, coffee consultant and author, Barry Kither, coffee consultant and former Sales and Marketing Director at Lavazza UK, and Henry Roberts, CEO, Two Hands.

Read more on our Starbucks at 50 feature in the latest issue of 5THWAVE magazine: https://www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Magazine

Hear more from Jonathan Morris' History of Coffee podcast and get a copy of his book Coffee: A Global History.

Credits music: Frappuccino by Yassi V finalist for the summer Coffee Music Project 2021

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

The role of food in coffee businesses

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 14:03:30 +0100

On the podcast today, we examine the interplay between food and coffee in hospitality businesses. The upside to adding food to a coffee proposition is clear but delivering excellent coffee and food simultaneously is never easy, and success often depends on the scale and scope of your business.

Exploring this week's theme, we speak with four leading operators, of all shapes and sizes, who share insights on how their businesses deliver a delicate balance of first-class food alongside great coffee.

Clare Clough, UK Managing Director, Pret A Manger discusses the latest trends in food-to-go and shares how a multi-site food franchise approaches their coffee offering.

Heather Perry, Vice President, Klatch Coffee explores how her business uses food to complement their core coffee offering, and the complexity it brings.

We also speak with Miles Kirby, Co-owner and Head Chef, Caravan, who shares insights on how their restaurants shift focus on coffee and food fluidity throughout the day.

Henry Roberts, Co-founder, Two Hands, explains how his cafes have transitioned to a food-focused business and how he keeps its coffee programme as strong as its food.

Find out more about World Coffee Portal’s research on the food-to-go sector with our consumer-led report Cakes, Shakes & Tea Breaks UK 2021.

Credits music: Send Me by Bobbie Harvey, the winning song for the Coffee Music Project 2021.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

The cold coffee revolution

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 12:43:45 +0100

This week we put cold coffee under the spotlight to illuminate the latest trends in this fast-growing category. We’ll explore how the cold coffee revolution has taken off in North America, and the opportunities for growth in markets worldwide.

In this episode we’re joined by a brewing equipment supplier and coffee expert from Asia Pacific, and two senior figures from leading cold coffee brands in the US. They’ll discuss the popularity of game-changing products, such as cold brew and RTDs, and provide their take on America’s epic love affair with cold coffee.

Danny Pang, Asia Pacific Manager for Marco Beverage Systems, guides us through the different types of cold coffee on the market and shares what the opportunity is for cold brew in Asia.

James McLaughlin, President and CEO of Intelligentsia Coffee discusses the continued growth of cold coffee in the US and the potential for new products and formats to match in-store coffee quality at home.

We also hear from Matthew Swenson, Director of Coffee at Nestlé and former Chief Product Officer for Chameleon Coffee, who shares how America’s grab-and-go culture and highly developed distribution network has allowed the US cold coffee market to thrive.

Watch Danny Pang’s guide on making Japanese-style iced coffee here.

For more on World Coffee Portal’s research on the iced beverage market in the US, read highlights from our Project Iced USA report here.

Credits music: “No More Rain” by Coffee Music Project artist Ania Diamond.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Barista vs. Machine

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 11:21:01 +0100

In today’s episode we’re exploring the world of espresso machine technology and the future of automation, and asking the question – will super-automatic coffee machines ever replace the barista?

To help answer this, we speak to leading manufacturers of traditional and super-automatic machines as well as a US Barista Champion to unpack how this technology is advancing, what that means for café owners, and how the role of the barista will evolve with the rise of automation.

We hear from Enrico Bracesco, Chief Commercial Officer for traditional and automatic coffee machine manufacturer, Gruppo Cimbali, who shares why he anticipates significant growth of the super-automatic segment within Cimbali’s portfolio.

Kamal Bengougam, Group Commercial Director, Eversys, discusses the latest technology advancements in full automation and what the next generation of espresso machines might look like.

We also speak with Lem Butler, US Barista Champion, and co-founder of Black & White Coffee Roasters, to understand the spaces that super automation can fill throughout the coffee industry and the evolving role of the barista within the value chain.

Click here to read more on World Coffee Portal's latest market data and consumer research on the rapidly developing automated coffee market.

Credits music: RIP by Matt Kent - former finalist of the Coffee Music Project New York.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

The genius behind Hoffmann Industries

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 27 May 2021 04:00:00 +0100

Today we are bringing you a very special episode, a full-length interview with enigmatic and influential entrepreneur James Hoffmann. In this conversation, James discusses his ambitions, business sensibilities, and the mindset that has helped build his remarkable career.

James Hoffmann is world-renowned in the coffee industry. A former World Barista Champion, co-founder of Square Mile Coffee Roasters, and author of The World Atlas of Coffee, he is also a prolific YouTuber who has amassed more than 86 million views globally.

We featured James in episode #15, which explored the careers of three distinguished coffee entrepreneurs. Listen to more of his compelling insights in this full extended interview.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Coffeepreneurs – Inside the minds of three leading coffee entrepreneurs

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 21 May 2021 09:09:36 +0100

Today we’re exploring the careers of three highly impressive individuals in the business of coffee to learn their stories and the secrets behind their success.

We speak with James Hoffmann, Gregory Zamfotis, and Toby Smith to delve into their different entrepreneurial approaches and discover the motivations and guiding principles that have underpinned their successful careers.

Our conversation with the multi-faceted entrepreneur, James Hoffmann, reveals business learnings and hidden clues into how he built his career across multiple platforms.

Gregory Zamfotis, founder of NYC specialty coffee chain, Gregorys Coffee, shares the influence his family has had on his career and the never-ending importance of hard work and treating people well.

We also speak with Toby Smith, founder of the iconic Toby’s Estate, one of Australia’s first and largest specialty coffee roasters, who sheds light on his pioneering career in coffee.

Credits music: Money Ain't a Thing by R.O.E. runner up for the 2016 Coffee Music Project in New York City.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Spotlight on China – A land of vast scale and opportunity

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 06 May 2021 10:12:11 +0100

On the podcast this week we are turning the spotlight to China and exploring how the traditionally tea-drinking country is rapidly growing into one of the most dynamic and opportune coffee markets in the world. From billion-dollar valuations for start-up coffee companies to a breathtaking number of new café openings, the Chinese coffee market is a machine you cannot ignore.

In this episode, we’ll be speaking with the COO of multi-national coffee shop chain Costa Coffee, a two-time Chinese Barista Champion, and a local coffee machine distributor to better understand this burgeoning market and explore the breadth and scale of opportunities for coffee brands in China.

Shakir Moin, Chief Operating Officer of Costa Coffee, outlines the astounding speed at which the Chinese coffee market is developing and why he estimates China will soon be among Costa Coffee’s top three coffee markets globally.

Jeremy Zhang, a two-time Chinese Barista Champion and founder of café and roastery M2M Coffee Roasters and UNiUNi Coffee, shares how the growth and innovation in China extend to even the most bespoke end of the specialty coffee market.

Gordon Chang, General Manager, La Marzocco China, provides an insight into China’s tea-drinking culture and the continued growth he sees for artisan coffee across the country.

Credits music: "Music Is There" by Daisy Chute, winner of the 2018 Coffee Music Project

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Spotlight on the Sydney coffee scene – the future beyond Covid-19

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 14:34:57 +0100

On the podcast this week we speak to three leading lights in the Sydney coffee community to explore how Covid-19 has impacted the influential Australian coffee market and how it has begun to recover.

With cafés already open and thriving across Sydney and other parts of Australia, we get a glimpse into what the coffee landscape might look like once global vaccination efforts begin to take effect, and how café owners should start preparing for a return to a new normality.

Jenny Willits, CEO, Seven Miles Coffee Roasters, discusses the booming coffee-at-home trend and how cafés must adapt to the needs of a more knowledgeable consumer.

Nich Rae, Head of Coffee for Toby’s Estate, explores how the pandemic affected café volumes and gets us up to speed with the latest trends emerging from Sydney’s influential coffee scene.

We’ll also hear from Melinda Evans, Operations Manager for Mecca Coffee Roasters on the trends that are impacting Mecca’s business and how it is putting sustainability promises into practice.

Credits music: Whispers by Holiday Sidewinder in partnership with The Coffee Music Project

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Grounds for optimism

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 13:41:07 +0100

When Covid-19 hit over 12 months ago, the global hospitality industry was confronted with its biggest crisis in many generations. Now, as we look towards the end of the pandemic and businesses worldwide return to some form of normality, café owners may be asking themselves, “should we be cautious or optimistic”?

We believe there is much to be positive about. In this episode, we are speaking to coffee business leaders and a global economist to explore the positive business trends and opportunities that have emerged in the wake of the global pandemic.

We’ll hear a macro perspective from Deloitte’s Chief Global Economist Ira Kalish, who outlines what effect Covid has had on the global economy and how quickly he expects global GDP to rebound.

Phil McKnight, General Manager for Global Specialty Coffee at Breville and Sage Appliances shares why he believes the coffee market will grow even more both in the home and in the cafe once consumers are back on the streets.

We’ll also speak with Darren Levy, CEO of Africa’s largest coffee shop chain, vida e caffè, about the innovations he is bringing to South African coffee drinkers.

This episode is part of a series of articles and interviews examining the opportunities for positive change in a post-pandemic world. Read the latest edition of the 5THWAVE magazine here for more on the topic.

Credits music: Coffee 2 Go by Kirsten Izer in partnership with The Coffee Music Project

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Maintaining successful business partnerships

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 08:18:13 +0000

Running a coffee business has never been easy, but it's certainly more manageable if you have the right business partner. The question is – who should you choose and how should you work together? In this episode, we are exploring three successful coffee business partnerships that have stood the test of time to glean some of the secrets of their success.

Amber Jacobsen, Co-founder of Partners Coffee Roasters, discusses her business partnership with co-founder Adam Boyd, and shares how their different synergistic skillsets have helped them to navigate a successful decade together including tackling Covid.

We’ll hear from Steven Macatonia and Jeremy Torz, Co-founders of Union Hand-Roasted Coffee, and get an insight into how they manage the day-to-day pressures of being both business and life partners.

We also speak with Keith Chua and Seo Young Youn of Bean Brothers, a Korean/Malaysian artisan coffee chain, to understand how Keith entered into an existing partnership and expanded the brand into a completely new market.

Credits music: California, by Billy Bogaurd in partnership with The Coffee Music Project

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Reframing the 'leader' - a conversation with Laila Ghambari

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 04:00:00 +0000

Jeffrey Young speaks with Laila Ghambari, Director of Cafes at Stumptown Coffee Roasters, to get a glimpse into how the pioneering specialty coffee business manages its cafes and learn how she has been steering the ship through the turbulent waters of the pandemic.

We originally spoke to Laila for our episode on Fostering team culture, but she offered such thought-provoking insights on leadership and navigating through change that we felt the interview deserved an episode of its own. In this conversation, Laila challenges us to rethink the traditional role of the leader and highlights the importance of serving the managers who report to you, instead of the other way round.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

5th Wave at origin - Bringing coffee farmers to the table

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 04:00:00 +0000

Jeffrey Young is joined by David Griswold, Founder and CEO of Sustainable Harvest Coffee Importers – the world’s first B Corp certified coffee company - to explore what the 5th Wave of coffee means in practice and its significance to coffee farmers at origin.

David is a leading figure in the world of specialty coffee and a pioneer in sustainable, ethical trade. In this conversation, David and Jeffrey discuss the importance of forging human connections with coffee farmers and fostering business synergies between coffee growing communities and the coffee drinking world.

For more information on the guiding principles of the 5th Wave of coffee, read our introduction article Explainer: What is the 5th Wave?

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Delicious morsels of wisdom - a conversation with Angus Thirlwell

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 04:00:00 +0000

Jeffrey Young speaks with Angus Thirlwell, CEO & Co-founder of Hotel Chocolat – a brand that forges a unique space for itself in the retail chocolate market. In this episode, Angus shares the secrets that helped him scale his business and discusses the parallel trends between chocolate and coffee.

Angus is a master brand builder and a pioneering figure in the world of chocolate. During our conversation with him for the Christmas episode, Unwrapping the chocolate industry, Angus shared such wisdom and insight that we felt the interview justified a bonus episode.

Credits music: Zelda Mae by Fergus from the Hotel Chocolat x Jake Gosling playlist

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Fostering team culture

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 04:00:00 +0000

Teams can achieve extraordinary things when human beings feel united and pull towards the same goal. But building powerful workplace team culture can be hard, especially in a café, with staff on different shifts and cafes spaced miles apart.

This week we explore how three successful companies foster powerful, united cultures that help their teams and businesses thrive across geographies and even through a pandemic.

In this episode, Guido Bernardinelli, CEO of La Marzocco, outlines the company’s management framework, also known as the 4Ps – People, Product, Planet and Profit.

We speak to Laila Ghambari, Director of Cafes at Stumptown Coffee Roasters about how building trust with their team is more important now than ever.

We’ll also hear from Edwin Harrison, Co-founder of Artisan, Curious Roo Coffee Roasters and the Artisan Coffee School, about creating a caring team culture throughout his business.

Credits music: Forceless by Erica Shafer

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Achieving sustainably profitable coffee farming

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 04:00:00 +0000

While specialty coffee consumption continues to grow, it’s an unfortunate truth that for many, coffee growing does not offer a financially viable livelihood. It is also true the quality of life in these communities almost always lags behind those of coffee drinkers in western economies. This week we are exploring how three different organisations are trying to address these problems.

We’ll hear from Carlos Ortiz, Manager of Volcafe's sourcing strategy Volcafe Way. He shares how his company is prioritising farmer sustainability in its sourcing practices.

Catherine David, Head of Commercial Partnerships at Fairtrade Foundation offers insights on why it makes sense for business operators to provide certified coffees.

Rebecca Hodgson, Head of Project Waterfall, a water charity focused on coffee growing communities, explains how access to clean water is a key piece in the sustainability puzzle.

Credits music: Quaranqueen by Dyllan winner of the Coffee Music Project Los Angeles 2019

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Growing an icon - a conversation with Tim Wendelboe

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 04:00:00 +0000

Jeffrey Young speaks with Tim Wendelboe, founder of the Oslo-based roastery that exemplifies the Nordic specialty coffee movement. In this conversation Tim discusses the business principles he used to build the iconic roastery and explores the challenges coffee growers face in building financially sustainable businesses.

Tim is a shining example of a successful business leader guided by principles, ethics, and transparency. We featured Tim in our Careers in Coffee episode but were only able to include a handful of the many insights he offered, so today we are releasing that conversation in full.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Unwrapping the chocolate industry

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 13:25:21 +0000

With the many parallels that exist between chocolate and coffee, this week Jeffrey Young is joined by innovators and disruptors from the world of chocolate to get a better understanding of this industry and explore what it can teach us about coffee.

Angus Thirlwell, CEO and Co-Founder of Hotel Chocolat reveals how out his out-of-the-box thinking created an enticing customer experience that has since helped the brand scale to over 100 retail stores globally.

Ben Greensmith, General Manager UK&I of Tony’s Chocolonely - a brand currently disrupting the European chocolate space - shares the humanitarian mission that drives the company and how they plan to climb to the top of the UK chocolate market.

David Donde, CEO and Founder of Truth Coffee and a key figure in the South African specialty coffee community, shares his new vision for shaking up the world of specialty chocolate.

Credits music: "Paris" by Bandits on the Run, winners of the Coffee Music Project 2017.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Scaling from one, to two, to four and beyond – a conversation with David Abrahamovitch

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 04:00:00 +0000

Jeffrey Young speaks with David Abrahamovitch, CEO and Founder of London-based specialty coffee chain Grind. In this conversation, David talks about the necessity of investing in integrated technology systems, how to boost café profit margins and the importance of looking after the people in your business.

David is a great example of operator who has successfully used technology to scale his coffee business and offers exceptional insights on how to run a profitable café chain. We’re releasing the full interview with David Abrahamovitch as a bonus episode as we believe it’s worth a listen.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Spotlight on Brazil

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 04:00:00 +0000

Jeffrey Young is joined by coffee specialists from Brazil to dive into the country’s globally important and fast-changing coffee drinking market. We’ll explore what types of coffee Brazilians are drinking, the major trends on supermarket shelves, changes in the roasting market and much more.

Marco Suplicy, founder of Suplicy Cafés shares how the quality of coffee Brazilian’s are drinking is changing and where the competition is heating up on supermarket shelves.

Henrique Cambraia, founder of Cambraia Cafés leads us through the history of Brazil’s specialty coffee movement from 2000 onwards.

Caio Alonso Fontes, co-founder of Café Editora offers insight into Brazils current coffee drinking trends and the growth of specialty coffee.

Credits music: "Kill My Heart" by Kate Klein for the Coffee Music Project.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

An unrelenting focus on personal growth - a conversation with Ross Quail

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 26 Nov 2020 04:00:00 +0000

Jeffrey Young speaks with Ross Quail, Sales Director South Asia for Hemro International, and learns Ross' perspectives on the long term impacts of COVID on the Australian cafe market, the future of espresso and how he helped grow St Ali, a Melbourne cafe roaster, from 100kg a week to 10 tonnes a week.

Ross' career is an extraordinary case study on what you can achieve in your coffee career when you keep an unrelenting focus on your personal growth. We're releasing this full interview with Ross Quail as a bonus episode because we believe it's worth a listen.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

The business of green coffee

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 12:36:23 +0000

Jeffrey Young is joined by green coffee providers to better understand the business of green coffee. We'll explore how a coffee bean gets from a farm into our daily cup, why Brazil is able to produce coffee at a profit while other countries struggle, and how we're going to maintain customer choice given that farming isn't sustainable for many.

Stephen Hurst, founder of Mercanta discusses the impact of Covid and the challenges of scaling specialty coffee to bring benefit to more farmers.

Pablo Garcia, Chief Operations Officer for Neumann Gruppe gives us an update on today’s green coffee market and his views on what drives coffee commodity pricing.

Ricardo Pereira, Chief Operating Officer for Ally Coffee details how Brazilian coffee producers manage to financially sustain themselves in today’s environment of low prices.

Credits music: "Great Outdoors" by Richard James for the Coffee Music Project.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Careers in coffee

World Coffee Portal — Fri, 06 Nov 2020 04:00:00 +0000

Jeffrey Young is joined by three highly successful coffee entrepreneurs to learn their stories and the secrets of their success.

Tim Wendelboe, founder of Oslo-based roastery Tim Wendelboe, reveals how his obsession with coffee quality and his unrelenting desire to learn have taken him far away from his cosy Oslo cafe and has landed him deep in the coffee fields of Latin America.

Elaine Swift, Regional Director (North) for UCC Coffee, shares the management and leadership qualities that helped her grow First Choice Coffee from under £1 Million to over £100 Million in annual revenue.

Ross Quail, Sales Director South Asia for Hemro International, demonstrates how his burning drive for continuous professional growth helped him turn St Ali, a popular Melbourne cafe roasting 100kg a week into one of Australia's largest, roasting up to 10 tonnes per week.

Credits music: "Buzzed" by Trevor Wesley, participant of the Coffee Music Project.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Using back-of-house technology to grow your cafe chain

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 04:00:00 +0100

Jeffrey Young is joined by cafe chain operators and back-of-house technology providers to understand what tech building blocks you will need to scale from one, to two, to four and beyond.

David Abrahamovitch, CEO of Grind, shows how he uses back-of-house technology to manage KPIs across his 11 cafes.

Joe Cripps, Managing Director of Trail, shows how removing cognitive load from your team simultaneously lowers costs, increases revenues while boosting customer service.

Dane Atkinson, CEO of Odeko, explains how independent cafes can benefit from the same technology that the big coffee chains use but at a reasonable cost.

Credits music: "Fire" by Ruby Confue, winner of the 2017 Coffee Music Project.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

Pivoting through a pandemic - a conversation with Nick Stone

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 15 Oct 2020 04:00:00 +0100

Jeffrey Young speaks with Nick Stone, founder of US-based Bluestone Lane, and learns how he pivoted his 50 cafe stores employing 650 staff during the height of the COVID pandemic.

We're releasing this full interview with Nick Stone as a bonus episode because we believe it's worth a listen. It's bursting with insights on how we can all be better people managers and decision makers.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

The future of the at-home coffee market

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 08 Oct 2020 04:00:00 +0100

Jeffrey Young is joined by coffee subscription, e-commerce and home appliance experts to discuss the latest coffee at-home trends and how Covid-19 has shifted the landscape.

This week's guests are Mike Lackman, CEO of Trade Coffee, Maria Colon, Vice President of Marketing and Doug Parkinson, Category Marketing Manager of De'Longhi North America and Paul Radin, CEO of Coffee Hit.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast

The long-term impact of Covid-19 on the hospitality sector

World Coffee Portal — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 17:46:07 +0100

Jeffrey Young speaks with business leaders to understand how Covid-19 has impacted the global hospitality sector and what long-term changes we can expect to see.

This week's guests are Nicholas Stone, CEO and Founder of Bluestone Lane, Seven Miles Coffee Roasters CEO Jenny Willits, and Wilhelm Liebenberg, Co-founder of Coco Safar.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVE/Podcast