From Chicago to Copenhagen: Mapping the Future of Specialty Coffee Beyond 2024
At the recent Specialty Coffee Expo in Chicago, our team delved deep into the evolving landscape of the specialty coffee industry, uncovering trends that will shape 2024 and beyond.
From the expo floor, Winnie, our expert in quality and product R&D, and Belen, our expert in sustainability and trading practices, share key insights that can help us determine the direction that the specialty coffee industry is taking.
So looking ahead in 2025, these are some of the trends to watch!
The industry embraces convenience and automation, without compromising on quality
Driven by consumer demand, technological advancements, and market competition, this trend offers quick and easy access to premium and specialty coffee without compromising taste. Despite the focus on convenience, the industry remains dedicated to sourcing specialty grade coffee while upholding - as much as possible - the specialty cafe experience.
Exporters will garner more power if they shift from mere green bean suppliers to sustainable coffee brands
Building a brand allows green bean suppliers to differentiate themselves in such a competitive and saturated green coffee market. By establishing their own brand identity, especially on social media, they can showcase their commitment to sustainability, quality, and ethical practices, while retaining more control over pricing and market positioning, and moving away from being solely dependent on fluctuating market prices and differentials.
This shift towards branding also fosters stronger relationships with roasters, as they can directly connect with the values and stories behind the coffee they purchase. Ultimately, it is all about carving out a distinct place in the market and creating long-term value beyond simply supplying beans.
Specialty coffee consumption in producing nations continues to flourish, marking a promising trend
As specialty markets continue to develop locally, we can anticipate several benefits that are in stark contrast with international supply chains:
Firstly, producing countries may showcase a deeper connection to the origin and traditions of coffee, offering unique experiences that celebrate local flavors, processing methods, and cultural practices
Additionally, producing countries may prioritize sustainability and social responsibility in their specialty coffee initiatives, incorporating practices that support local environmental conservation and equitable economic development within their communities.
Furthermore, the emergence of specialty coffee in producing countries can foster a greater sense of pride and ownership among local producers and consumers, driving a cultural shift towards valuing and celebrating their own coffee heritage.
See you soon in Copenhagen at World of Coffee
As we finish up our series on the Specialty Coffee Expo in Chicago, we're excited to announce that Vuna will travel to the upcoming World of Coffee event in June, happening in the stunning city of Copenhagen.
We're excited to work with green coffee and export businesses to make World of Coffee a success for your business. Together, we can engage with buyers, explore new trends and innovations to help your business thrive in specialty markets.
So if you plan to attend in Copenhagen, drop us a line! We can't wait to meet you and work together to sell more coffee. See you there!
photo credit: https://cafepicker.com/best-kigali-coffee-shops/ , featuring Rubia Coffee Roaster in Kigali