5THWAVE - The Business of Coffee and Hospitality

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 CollectiveSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood, a coffee entrepreneur and co-author of "Water for Coffee," joins Christopher H. Hendon, a chemistry professor, to explore the intricate relationship between water and coffee flavor. They dive into how mineral composition and temperature can dramatically alter a brew's taste. The conversation uncovers common misconceptions about brewing methods and showcases the scientific insights fueling innovations in coffee filtration. Their collaboration reveals a commitment to bridging chemistry with the art of coffee-making.

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 CollectiveSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

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 CollectiveSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

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 CollectiveSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

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 CollectiveTune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the showSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

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 CollectiveTune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the showSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

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.Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

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 CollectiveSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear

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 CollectiveTune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the showSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear