Latest news with #CoffeeValueAssessment
The Herald Scotland
4 days ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Glasgow coffee roaster sees two achieve prestigious accreditation
They are part of a group of less than 150 certified Q Graders in the UK, the qualification is a rare distinction and a major milestone for Matthew Algie. MacGilp said: 'To have not one, but two Q Graders in-house puts us in the top tier of coffee roasters across the UK and Ireland. This isn't just a personal achievement for Gosia and me – it's a significant step for Matthew Algie and our partners across the supply chain.' The Q Grader certification is widely regarded as the coffee industry's equivalent to a wine sommelier or Master of Wine. It formally recognises the sensory expertise required to evaluate, score and communicate the quality of coffee according to a globally standardised process. Originally developed by the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), the programme has now been fully integrated into the SCA's Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) framework, with a greater focus on holistic evaluation and inclusivity across coffee types – including Robusta. Read More Pret A Manger to trial new 'made-to-order' format with Broughty Ferry store Candidates must pass more than 20 sensory and technical assessments – from blind cupping to triangulation and aroma recognition. MacGilp, who first qualified under the CQI system more than a decade ago, described the recertification process as 'every bit as rigorous and humbling' as her original experience. MacGilp, who believes the qualification will become 'essential' in the industry, added: 'There's no shortcut to becoming a Q Grader. You need to have cupped hundreds, if not thousands, of coffees, developing a sensory library in your mind that allows you to distinguish the subtle flavour, texture, and aroma differences in coffees from around the world. 'In fine dining, you expect a sommelier. We believe in a future where specialty coffee professionals are held to the same standard.' Lendzioszek, who entered the coffee industry through barista work nearly two decades ago, described earning her Q Grader badge as like earning a 'black belt in coffee'. She said: 'This isn't the end of the road – if anything, it's the beginning. Sensory analysis is a skill that takes years to build, and what excites me most is sharing that passion with customers, colleagues, and other coffee professionals.' The recognition also highlights the growing role of women in a historically male-dominated corner of the coffee industry. 'We hope our achievement sends a message to aspiring sensory specialists – especially young women – that this space is open to you. Your senses are a tool – they can be trained, developed, and trusted.' Matthew Algie, which last year marked its 160th anniversary, supplies coffee, machines, equipment, and training to thousands of organisations throughout the UK and Ireland across industries including hospitality, education, and the public sector, has made the move as part of its ambitious plan to achieve Net Zero by 2040.
Associated Press
27-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Workshops and Lectures Announced for Specialty Coffee Expo 2025: Focused Hands-On Learning Across the Coffee Value Chain
Brand-New Learning Opportunities are Tailored Around Cupping and Retail Businesses HOUSTON, TX / ACCESS Newswire Specialty Coffee Expo, taking place in Houston from April 25-27, will feature an unparalleled educational program covering the latest in sustainability, business innovation, scientific advancements, and specialty coffee trends. Designed to empower coffee professionals at every level, this year's program includes over 60 complimentary lecture sessions and 25 interactive workshops available to attendees for an additional fee. 'Attendees of Specialty Coffee Expo expect immersive workshops and expert-led sessions as part of our series of lectures and workshops. The SCA has curated a stellar lineup of courses for coffee professionals looking to stay ahead in this ever-evolving industry,' said Kim Elena Ionescu, Chief Strategy Development Officer at the Specialty Coffee Association. 'These sessions offer invaluable opportunities to refine technical skills, explore market trends, discover innovative solutions, and gain insights from industry leaders shaping the future of specialty coffee.' Specialty Coffee Expo will be an opportunity for many to experience brand-new learning opportunities that are tailored around cupping and retail businesses, as part of the SCA's Education program. The Intro to Cupping Workshop forms part of the SCA's cupping education program that launches ahead of Specialty Coffee Expo -- the only program of its kind, built on the foundations of the Coffee Value Assessment and modern sensory science. The SCA Retail Business Education program launches with two in-person workshops taught by Laila Ghambari and produced in partnership with Simonelli Group and Coffee Knowledge Hub. Intro to Cupping - A brand-new, beginner-friendly, and inclusive experience designed to familiarize anyone without cupping experience to the foundational practices of cupping and sensory analysis. From Surviving to Thriving - How to Run a Profitable Coffee Shop - This workshop is designed exclusively for coffee shop owners or managers seeking to elevate their business game. Focus on honing business acumen while gaining invaluable insights into financial strategies, operational efficiencies, and essential practices to maximize profitability. Management and Leadership: Building a Better Business - Foster exceptional leadership and cultivate a motivated team: In this workshop, coffee shop owners and managers will learn proven techniques in effective communication, team empowerment, and cultivating a positive work culture. The workshops at Expo provide a unique, hands-on, problem-solving experience led by industry experts. These three-hour intensive sessions cover a wide range of topics, from roasting innovations and flavor profiling to financial strategies and sustainability practices. With limited spots available, attendees are encouraged to register early to secure their participation. Workshop focus areas include: Exploring Specialty and Business Growth - The first day of workshops delves into menu curation, pricing models, and operational success. Participants can explore specialty beverage diversification (Curating Your Menu: Exploring Specialty's Supporting Players), espresso calibration (How to Dial in Espresso), and financial sustainability (From Surviving to Thriving - How to Run a Profitable Coffee Shop). For those focused-on coffee quality and innovation, sessions like Roast Revolution: Exploring Cutting-Edge Innovations in Coffee Roasting Techniques and The Alchemy of the Pour: Mastering Latte Art Techniques provide hands-on skill-building. Sensory Skills and Market Strategy - Day two offers a deep dive into cupping, flavor analysis, and financial planning. Workshops such as Working Towards Cuppers' Alignment in Descriptive Assessment and Tastes Like Tropical Fruits: Understanding Fruit Flavors and Aromas from the Tropics enhance sensory skills, while business-focused sessions like The Profitable Cafe: Financial Strategies for Sustainable Success and Crafting Connections: A Market-Readiness Workshop for Green Coffee Producers and Exporters equip entrepreneurs with essential tools to thrive in competitive markets. Advanced Techniques and Future Trends - The final day features specialized workshops aimed at seasoned professionals looking to refine their craft and business strategies. Past Crop Profiling: A Roaster's Guide to Blending offers insights into advanced roasting techniques, while Coffee Buying: Sourcing, the C Market, and Contracts provides essential knowledge for those navigating global coffee sourcing. Additionally, Perspectives from a Futurist: Designing More Future-fit Coffee Value Chains presents a forward-looking approach to sustainability and innovation in the coffee industry. With a focus on education, sustainability, and technological advancements, Expo also features a lineup of complimentary expert-led lectures covering crucial topics, including: Breaking into the Industry: Sessions like 'How to Get Started in the Mobile Coffee Industry' and 'What is Specialty Coffee?' provide foundational insights for aspiring coffee entrepreneurs. Gender Equity and Social Impact: 'Women, Coffee, and Climate Change: Addressing Vulnerabilities and Innovations in Uganda's Coffee Value Chain' and 'The Role of Women in the Sustainable Development of the Coffee Industry: The Case of Rebuild Women's Hope Cooperative in the Democratic Republic of Congo' highlight initiatives empowering women and fostering sustainability in coffee-producing regions. Sustainability and Climate Action: 'Coffee, Carbon, and Biodiversity: A Blueprint to Improve Sustainability Initiatives,' 'Deforestation-Free Specialty Coffee: Ethiopia's Semi-Forest and Community-Driven Model,' and 'Shared Value through Regenerative Agriculture and Circular Economy' will address environmental challenges and solutions within the coffee industry. Business Growth and Innovation: From 'Opening a New Café? Design it Right - Build it Once' to 'The Evolving Coffee Industry: Career Paths and Possibilities,' attendees will gain insights into business expansion, automation, and consumer trends. Technology and Coffee: With sessions like 'Coffee and Technology: How AI and IoT are Shaping the Coffee Industry' and 'Controlling Automation: Adjusting Flavor Profiles in Automatic Machines,' Expo will showcase how modern tech is revolutionizing coffee production and consumption. Specialty Coffee Expo, produced by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), will welcome more than 17,000 attendees from 85 countries, showcasing the best in coffee innovation, culture, and sustainability as well as networking opportunities that support commerce and trade. The expansive Exhibition Hall will feature 649 exhibiting companies including Title Sponsor Middleby Coffee Solutions Group, Diamond Sponsor Sanremo Coffee Machines and Platinum Sponsor Pacific Barista Series. Peru will be featured as the Portrait Country. Registration for Specialty Coffee Expo is now open at All SCA members receive a discount on registration. For sponsorship, exhibitor, or registration inquiries, email [email protected] or visit Specialty Coffee Expo. About the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is the largest global coffee trade association dedicated to making coffee better by fostering a global coffee community and supporting activities to make specialty coffee a thriving, equitable, and sustainable endeavor for the entire value chain. Through collaboration and progressive approaches, it supports the industry through research, standards, education, and events. Working around the world, the SCA elevates worldwide standards, providing value and connectivity to the growing global community. To sponsor and support the Specialty Coffee Expo and the continued work of the SCA, contact [email protected]. To learn more, visit or follow @specialtycoffeeassociation on social media. # # # For further information, contact:
