As we have seen in previous parts of our special feature, there is plenty of innovation going on around hot beverages at the moment.
Whether you want to source an espresso machine, find a new tea supplier or learn more about the science behind hot drinks, these shows will help you find the suppliers and information you need to make the most of this important revenue stream.
London Coffee Festival – 3-6 April 2014 at the Old Truman Brewery
The London Coffee Festival is a must-attend event for anyone looking to take their coffee to the next level.
The event will feature educational workshops, live roasting demonstrations, barista competitions and the SCAE UK Barista Championship finals, as well as street food, coffee-based cocktails, DJs and art exhibitions.
Two dedicated industry days (3 and 4 April) will give trade visitors the chance to find new products and innovations, and take part in the festival’s interactive coffee experiences.
Festival organiser, Ludovic Rossignol commented: “The exciting coffee journey London has been experiencing for the last decade is an indication that it is fast becoming one of the most advanced coffee cities on earth.
“More than an obsession, coffee is becoming a lifestyle, not just in London but across the UK. The informal environment at The London Coffee Festival provides exhibitors with the opportunity to engage with our industry vistors in an interactive and memorable way.
We look at the latest trends and implement event features that respond to the demand of the current marketplace. It is our vision to promote the diversity and excellence the UK coffee scene has to offer.”
What to look out for:
The Lab: The lab will host free seminars and workshops that will provide industry visitors with latest market insight, innovative ideas and ready-to-implement training and vocational skills.
The Science of Espresso – Deconstructed: The team from L’Accademia di Cimbali will give their take on the ‘4th wave’ coffee movement, concentrating on four key areas: grinding, temperature, pressure, and milk - deconstructing the science behind a great espresso.
The True Artisan Café: La Marzocco will invite more than 40 of the best coffee shops and roasteries in the UK to take over the pop-up coffee shop for a three-hour slot, each serving signature drinks to visitors.
Union World Coffee Tour : Union will return with its themed espresso and brew bar, showcasing Union Direct Trade Sourcing, with tastes from South America on Thursday and Sunday, Africa/Arabia, Pacific Asia on Friday and Central America on Saturday.
Jeremy Torz and business partner Steven Macatonia will also demonstrate their craft roasting in a vintage San Francisco Roaster and visitors can take part in a pro-amateur flavour challenge.
SCAE UK Coffee Competitions: The London Coffee Festival will host all SCAE UK Competitions for the third year running, including the UK Barista Championship 2014.
Cravendale M.I.L.K BATTLE: Baristas will go head-to-head to see who can create the most elaborate latte art.
To find out more and reserve tickets, visit www.londoncoffeefestival.com
Caffe Culture – 14-15 May 2014 – Olympia, London
With over 200 national and international exhibitors and 5,000 trade visitors attending across two days, Café Culture is a great source of inspiration and advice for hotels and restaurants looking for fresh ideas and inspiration for their hot beverage offering.
Visitors will be able to get expert advice on choosing the right products for their business, as well as seeing the latest industry innovations and sampling hundreds of products suppliers.
The show will also feature a programme of free seminars and live interactive food and drink demonstrations.
What to look out for:
Seminars:
UK hot drinks industry: reviewing trends and opportunities
Philip Benton, Research Analyst at Euromonitor International
Delivering a quality coffee offering when its not your core business
Hugh Gilmartin hosts a panel of personalities from the pub, restaurant, hotel and contract catering sectors
Practical demos:
An introduction to roasting and blending coffee
Ben Townsend, SCAE
Maximising your profits through tea
Erica Moore, Eteaket
Alternative brew methods to espresso, and why you should use them
Ben Townsend, SCAE
Getting to grips with green coffee - learn how to select and blend your own coffee for roasting
Falcon Coffee
To find out more, visit www.caffecultureshow.com.