Brazil is forecast to produce 55.7 million 60-kilo bags of coffee in the 2025 harvest, representing a 2.7% increase compared to last season’s harvest, according to the National Supply Company (Conab). If the estimated volume is confirmed, this will mark the largest ever harvest recorded in a negative biennial year, surpassing the 2023 harvest by 1.1%. Conilon coffee drives growth The main contributor to this growth is conilon (robusta) coffee, which is expected to see a 28.3% rise in average productivity, reaching 50.4 sacks per hectare. As a result, conilon production is projected to reach a record 18.7 million bags. This outcome is attributed to favourable weather conditions during critical phases of the crops, supporting positive flowering and a high quantity of fruits per rosette. In Espírito Santo, Brazil’s largest conilon-producing state, coffee production is forecast at 13.1 million bags. The increase is largely due to well-timed rainfall in the north of the state, which accounts for nearly 70% of the country’s conilon-growing area. Bahia is also expected to see a strong recovery, with a 28.2% rise in conilon production to 2.5 million bags. As a result, Bahia will regain its position as the second-largest producer of conilon, overtaking Rondônia, where production is expected to reach 2.28 million bags. Decline in arabica production While conilon coffee sees growth, arabica coffee, which is more affected by Brazil’s biennial production cycle, is expected to fall by 6.6%, with a forecast of around 37 million bags. In Minas Gerais, the largest arabica-producing state, the harvest is projected to be 25.65 million bags. According to Conab, the reduction in arabica production is mainly due to the negative effects of the biennial cycle, as well as the long dry spell that affected crops between April and September 2024, weakening the plants and reducing their productivity. São Paulo is also expected to see a decline in arabica productivity due to the physiological effects of the biennial cycle, compounded by adverse weather conditions. However, the state’s total planted area is expected to grow by 5.3%, reaching 196,000 hectares. This growth will help offset the loss in productivity, leading to a 1.3% increase in production, estimated at 5.5 million bags. Export volumes decline, revenues increase Brazil’s coffee exports in the first quarter of 2025 dipped slightly, with 11.7 million bags shipped – down 1% compared to the same period in 2024. This reduction is attributed to limited domestic stocks in early 2025 following a tighter production cycle and strong exports in 2024. Despite the dip in volume, the value of exports rose significantly. Brazil’s coffee exports were valued at $4.1 billion in Q1, a 68.9% increase compared to the previous year, driven by high global coffee prices and strong demand. While global production is expected to rise, international coffee prices are likely to remain under pressure due to low global stocks. This will likely continue to support higher prices in the international market throughout the year.

Apex Order Pickup Solutions has launched its new modular and scalable OrderHQ Array Series, designed to streamline off-premises order handoff in any restaurant layout. The Array Series offers flexible configurations without the need for costly remodeling, helping quick-service restaurants, fast-casual chains and foodservice operators enhance efficiency and eliminate order pickup bottlenecks. It features modular compartments that can be arranged horizontally or stacked vertically, depending on the available space and order volume. This adaptability allows operators to optimise their operations without significant infrastructure changes. The lockers can be placed on countertops, mounted on walls or installed in a free-standing grid, seamlessly integrating with existing restaurant setups. Key features include larger compartments for larger orders, proprietary Order InSight technology for monitoring order loading and pickup and easy expandability to meet growing demand. The system ensures secure order retrieval via a unique access code, reducing staff involvement and preventing errors, theft and mix-ups. With the ability to retrieve orders in ten seconds or less, the system is said to meet customer demand for speed and convenience. The modular design enables restaurants to start small and expand as needed. Subscription-based pricing plans allow operators to implement the Array Series without the need for upfront capital investment. The ApexIQ platform integrates with existing mobile ordering systems, offering real-time metrics on order fulfillment and labor efficiency, optimising operations and improving profitability. Kent Savage, founder and executive chairman of Apex Order Pickup Solutions, said: “Automating the pickup process with smart locker solutions can improve profitability by freeing up at least one associate per hour per day, provide higher average unit volume potential by streamlining operations and improve both front-of-house operations and customer service". "The flexible design of our new OrderHQ Array Series opens the door for more restaurants to take advantage of these benefits whether it's a standalone install or built seamlessly into an existing space.”

Inventory inaccuracies are costing European supermarkets in efficiency and customer trust. Michel Spruijt, president of Brain Corp International, discusses how technologies like AI-powered robots, IoT tracking and machine learning are helping retailers improve inventory accuracy, streamline operations and stay competitive in a challenging market. In the competitive landscape of European supermarkets, inventory visibility has emerged as one of the critical factors that can differentiate successful retailers from struggling ones. Recent studies paint a concerning picture: approximately 60% of SKUs across seven major European retailers suffer from inventory inaccuracies, creating a cascade of operational challenges that ultimately hurt the bottom line. These inaccuracies don’t merely cause administrative headaches – they are practical difficulties that European supermarkets are being obliged to overcome: Nearly 40% of retailers have been forced to cancel at least one in ten orders due to poor inventory visibility, a statistic that highlights the severity of the issue. When shoppers encounter empty shelves where their desired products should be, or when online orders are canceled due to stock discrepancies, customer trust can erode quickly. The root causes Understanding why inventory records become inaccurate is essential to addressing the problem. Several factors contribute to these discrepancies. First, theft and shipment errors constitute a significant portion of inventory inaccuracies. Products that disappear due to theft but remain in digital inventory records create phantom stock – items that appear available in systems but don't physically exist on shelves. Phantom stock is also caused by discrepancies between scanned products and stock actually taken from shelves. Human error also presents an inevitable challenge. Mistakes at point-of-sale terminals, during returns processing, or when transferring stock between locations, can all contribute to inventory discrepancies. Even with stringent protocols in place, manual processes leave room for errors. Technology limitations can also play a role. Despite advancements in inventory management systems, retailers are blighted by outdated data from POS and ERP systems, legacy system integration issues, and siloed inventory views. Manual processes are still in use throughout the supply chain – from paper manifests to Excel-based inventory tracking – increasing vulnerability to errors, shortages or excess stock. Technology solutions transforming inventory management European supermarkets are turning to technology to quickly address inventory issues and gain better visibility. Real-time inventory tracking systems utilising IoT such as smart shelves, provide continuous updates on product locations and quantities, reducing discrepancies between physical and digital inventories. Moreover, this type of integration enables retailers to monitor stock levels across their entire network in real-time, facilitating more efficient distribution and reducing stockouts. AI and machine learning-powered solutions, such as Streamline which uses algorithms to detect data patterns and generate forecasts while minimising stockouts and overstocks, are being deployed to enhance forecasting accuracy and automating inventory management. Inventory scanning robots like those powered by our own AI operating system, BrainOS, are designed to autonomously gather inventory data in-store and put detailed inventory intelligence at managers’ fingertips in real time, allowing them to optimise store operations and allocate resources more strategically. Broader success for retail operations Modern inventory visibility has implications far beyond accurate stock counts. Operations can see significant efficiency gains when staff can locate products quickly and accurately. Work hours previously spent searching for misplaced items or conducting emergency stock checks can be redirected to more valuable customer-facing services. In addition, supply chains become more resilient as retailers gain clearer insights into their inventory situation. With accurate data, supermarkets can respond more nimbly to supply disruptions, potentially shifting stock between locations or adjusting orders before shortages impact customers. Enhanced inventory visibility also translates directly to more informed decision-making at all levels. With accurate, real-time inventory data, executives can fine-tune investment strategies across product categories and locations. Department managers can make evidence-based decisions about merchandising priorities, promotions and product placement when armed with reliable inventory information. Store managers benefit from clearer visibility into stock performance metrics, enabling them to identify and address issues before they escalate into major problems affecting customer experience. This data-driven approach to management transforms inventory from a mere operational concern into a strategic asset. The path forward As European supermarkets navigate the complex challenges of modern retail, inventory visibility will continue to serve as a foundational advantage. The coming years will likely see an intensified focus on improved inventory systems, with automated robotics playing an increasingly prominent role in inventory management without disrupting customer experiences. For European supermarkets facing intense competition from discount chains and online stores, the message is clear: inventory visibility is not merely about administrative accuracy; it's about creating the seamless shopping experiences that today's consumers expect and the operational efficiency needed to stay ahead in an increasingly challenging market.

JDE Peet’s has sold its tea business in Turkey to Efor Holding for an undisclosed sum. The business generated approximately €60 million in annual revenue but made a negative contribution to adjusted EBIT. The company has also decided to discontinue the planned rollout of its L’or Barista coffee machines in the US. Management of the L’OR capsules business in the US will be transferred to Peet’s, its American coffee brand, "to better capture the significant potential of the US coffee market," said JDE Peet's. Both moves are part of JDE Peet’s ongoing strategic review aimed at simplifying its operating model and improving resource allocation. The company said further updates on its transformation plans will be shared at its Capital Markets Day on 1 July 2025. In a trading update, JDE Peet’s reported that its financial performance in the first quarter of 2025 was in line with expectations. While European volumes were affected in the early part of the year, a rebound began in March. Green coffee prices have risen 28% compared to the second half of 2024, prompting the company to consider further pricing actions. The company also announced the proposed appointment of Rob de Groot as a non-executive member of its board of directors. The nomination will be subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting on 19 June 2025.

InstaChef Pro has launched Singapore’s first 'full-stack' AI food solution, the K Series, at the FHA-Food & Beverage 2025 event, held in April. The K Series combines automated kitchen technology with a ready-to-cook menu of over 300 items, offering food businesses a cost-efficient, scalable solution. Developed by home-grown tech company AiKit, InstaChef provides a variety of halal-certified dishes, including chicken and salted fish claypot rice and Thai basil chicken with rice, all made from fresh ingredients. The K Series simplifies kitchen operations by eliminating the need for exhaust systems and drainage, reducing set-up costs. Its cloud kitchen management system enables fast, automated cooking of up to 12 dishes in just three minutes, allowing businesses to scale with minimal manpower and space requirements. The system also minimises ingredient waste and operational overheads. The K Series offers a complete end-to-end solution for food businesses, blending AI-powered technology with ready-to-eat meals for seamless operation.

After years of consultation, delay and debate, the UK government has officially confirmed that a deposit return scheme (DRS) will launch in England and Northern Ireland on 1 October 2027. Set to transform how single-use drinks containers are bought, returned and recycled, the scheme is a game changer for vending operators and beverage providers. From labelling and logistics to consumer engagement and cost structures, businesses in these sectors need to prepare for significant changes. How it works At its core, the DRS is simple: consumers will pay a small deposit (likely around 20p) when purchasing a drink in a plastic bottle or metal can. This deposit will be refunded when the empty container is returned to a designated return point, either manually at a vending machine or via a reverse vending machine (RVM). But behind the scenes, the scheme’s rollout is anything but straightforward. The government has confirmed that the scheme will apply to PET plastic bottles and aluminium or steel cans between 150ml and 3l, but glass bottles will be excluded from the England and Northern Ireland rollout. This exclusion is a point of contention, especially among environmental groups, and marks a key difference from Scotland’s approach. All in-scope drinks must carry a DRS-specific label and be sold only by registered producers. Retailers will also be responsible for setting up return points or applying for exemptions. What this means for vending businesses For vending operators and beverage producers, the introduction of the DRS represents a fundamental shift in how products are packaged, sold and recycled. Here are some considerations: 1. Revamping vending operations Vending operators will need to adapt their machines to accept empty containers and process refunds. This could mean upgrading existing machines with reverse vending technology or investing in new units. The logistics of managing returns at high-traffic locations, such as offices, public spaces and transport hubs, will require significant planning. British Retail Consortium's (BRC) director of food and sustainability, Andrew Opie, said: "Retailers and the BRC have been central to the Deposit Management Organisation's (DMO) development, committing significant funding, time and resource to get to this point and we are pleased that our voice will continue to be heard as the initiative progresses". "The DMO must now get to work to ensure the smooth delivery of a DRS that works for businesses and consumers. We look forward to engaging with them and the government to ensure that DRS makes a meaningful difference to recycling across the UK.” 2. The rise of reverse vending As part of the rollout, RVMs are expected to become a familiar fixture in retail and vending environments. These machines allow consumers to return empty drink containers and receive their deposit back automatically, an approach that aligns perfectly with the self-service nature of vending. With the implementation of DRS in 2027, these machines will provide an essential return point for single-use plastic and metal drinks containers, offering a simple, automated way for consumers to return their empty bottles and cans and reclaim their deposit. The convenience of RVMs makes them ideal for high-traffic areas – such as vending locations, retail stores and public spaces – where speed and efficiency are key. For vending operators, RVMs represent an opportunity to enhance customer experience while supporting sustainability goals. Not only do they make it easier for consumers to return containers, but they also help reduce waste and improve recycling rates. RVMs are becoming an increasingly common sight across Europe, and with the UK’s forthcoming DRS, the demand for them is expected to soar. As more vending machines adopt reverse vending technology, operators will need to navigate the logistics of machine installation, maintenance and integration with the wider recycling infrastructure. RVMs will be essential not only in providing an accessible return point for consumers but also in aligning vending operators with evolving environmental standards. In addition to the benefits of increased recycling, RVMs offer an avenue for revenue generation. Many models of reverse vending machines can incentivise returners with cash, loyalty points or vouchers for future purchases, making them an attractive addition for businesses looking to improve customer engagement. This could be particularly valuable in the vending and beverage sector, where convenience is a priority for consumers. With forward-thinking operators already investing in reverse vending machines, now is the time to prepare. RVMs offer a great opportunity to stay ahead of the curve, not just in terms of compliance but also in aligning with consumer preferences for sustainable practices. For vending operators, reverse vending machines are not only a solution to the challenges posed by the DRS, but a strategic investment in the future of the industry. 3. New costs on the horizon While the deposit will be paid by consumers and returned to them, the administrative costs will not disappear so easily. Manufacturers will be expected to contribute to the scheme’s operational costs – covering everything from material handling to data reporting. Retailers installing RVMs could face upfront costs of £30,000 or more per machine, with further expenses for maintenance, space allocation and staff training. While this burden will not fall entirely on producers, it will inevitably feed back into pricing and distribution negotiations. 4. Changing how drinks are sold and returned The introduction of return logistics marks a new layer of complexity in the supply chain. Collaboration with retail partners will become even more crucial, especially for brands that rely on convenience or impulse channels. Smaller stores may apply for exemptions, but larger retailers will be required to manage container returns on-site. This could impact product placement, promotional strategies and even which formats are stocked where. Producers using harder-to-recycle formats may find their shelf presence diminishing in favour of DRS-friendly packaging. 5. Different rules for different sectors For drinks consumed on premises – think pubs, cafes or restaurants – businesses will not need to charge a deposit or provide a return point. However, those selling takeaway drinks will be subject to the same rules as retailers. Online and direct-to-consumer sellers, meanwhile, will need to plan for the additional headache of managing returns remotely – a logistics challenge that has yet to be clearly resolved by government or industry bodies. A window of opportunity? Despite its challenges, the DRS could also be an opportunity for brands to double down on sustainability credentials. With consumers increasingly aware of packaging waste and circularity, early adoption and clear communication could boost brand perception. The scheme also promises to improve recycling quality in the UK, providing high-grade materials that manufacturers can use for new packaging. This could benefit vending operators and beverage producers who rely on a sustainable supply chain. The DMO has officially been announced as the operator of the new £1.13 billion DRS for single-use plastic and metal drinks containers in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland. BRC, a key stakeholder in the DMO’s creation, welcomed the news. “A well-designed DRS, with retail at its heart, will be an important contribution to delivering a circular economy in the UK,” said Opie. In a joint statement, the UK DMO board said: “DRS is an opportunity to deliver a transformational step forward in the circular economy in the UK and the appointment of the DMO is a major milestone in that journey. We don’t underestimate the scale of the challenge, but our aim is simple – to build a system that’s fair, efficient and easy to use." The statement continued: "Our work is already underway, and we’ll be working closely with governments, businesses of all sizes, environmental groups and consumer bodies to move forward as quickly as possible.” Other industry leaders have backed the scheme. British Soft Drinks Association director general, Gavin Partington, welcomed the government’s appointment of UK DMO as scheme administrator for its DRS. Partington said: "This appointment marks a key milestone in realising the opportunities of a more circular economy, driving £1.13 billion of industry investment over the next three years and creating more than 4,000 jobs across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The British soft drinks industry looks forward to playing our part in ensuring successful delivery of a DRS by October 2027.” Natural Source Waters Association's general manager, Kinvara Carey, added: “This announcement is great news for all involved. The DMO will have a clear focus on developing the most efficient and effective scheme to reduce littering and enable more drink containers to stay in the loop and be given another life.” Association of Convenience Stores' CEO, James Lowman, highlighted that the appointment of the UK DMO marks a major step forward in bringing the DRS to life across the UK. He underlined the vital role that local retailers and convenience stores will play in the scheme’s success, particularly in offering accessible return points for consumers. "For the scheme to deliver a step change in recycling rates," Lowman said, "local shops will need to play an integral part, offering a convenient network of return points both for local residents and people consuming drinks on the go." “We are looking forward to working with the newly-formed DMO to ensure that the scheme is operationally viable and attractive for retailers to take part in. With less than two-and-a-half years before launch, it is vital that retailers can make informed choices about how to take part in the scheme, and we are committed to providing the information and advice they need.” What businesses can do now With more than two years before the go-live date, there is still time to prepare – but not to wait. Audit your product range: Identify which stock keeping units (SKUs) fall under the scheme and begin exploring packaging adjustments. Speak to suppliers: Ensure your packaging providers are ready to deliver DRS-compliant formats. Engage your retail network:  Retailers will be your front line in delivering the scheme, and so collaboration is key. Factor in the costs: Ensure you   budget for future compliance and keep an eye on how the DRS might affect your margins. Monitor updates:   Sign up to government updates and industry forums in order to stay ahead of any regulatory shifts. Final sip The DRS represents a major shift in how we produce, sell and recover drink containers. For operators in the vending and beverage sectors, the challenge is not just about compliance but adaptation: how to stay flexible in a market increasingly shaped by sustainability and consumer expectation. Whether you’re a multinational brand or a local vending operator, the countdown to October 2027 has already begun. Preparing now will ensure you’re ready to take full advantage of the opportunities, and overcome the challenges, the scheme will bring.

Scottish Water’s Top Up Tap initiative has saved the equivalent of 15 million single-use 330ml plastic bottles. As part of the company’s Your Water Your Life campaign, the initiative promotes the use of refillable water bottles to reduce plastic waste and support environmental sustainability. It has become increasingly popular, with 131 Top Up Taps now installed across Scotland. The first tap was installed at the Scottish Parliament in October 2018. The taps provide free access to high-quality drinking water, allowing individuals to refill their water bottles on the go. Each tap is equipped with technology that tracks water usage, providing data on cost savings, plastic reduction and water volume. According to Scottish Water, the most used Top Up Tap is located at The Meadows in Edinburgh. Other high-traffic locations include Buchanan Street in Glasgow and the Scottish Parliament. The taps are located from Lerwick in the north to Portpatrick in the south. Alex Plant, chief executive of Scottish Water, said: “We are thrilled that so many people have used the taps, saving the equivalent of 15 million single-use plastic bottles. We thank everyone who fills up from our big blue taps with a reusable bottle and hope more people will do the same in the future. “With summer approaching and more of us out and about, we urge everyone to carry a refillable bottle and use our Top Up Taps to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is essential for concentration, health and performance. With 131 distinctive Top Up Taps across the country, you can easily top up while on the go."

Cuzen Matcha has launched the Cuzen Matcha Maker Pro, a commercial-grade machine designed to handle matcha preparation in busy cafés, restaurants, hotels and workplaces. The new machine responds to growing global demand for matcha. Equipped with dual mill units, the Matcha Maker Pro produces two shots of matcha in 40 seconds – which, according to the company, is more than twice as fast as the original consumer version – while automating the storage, grinding and whisking process in a single countertop unit. Over 30 pilot customers in the US and Japan have tested the Cuzen Matcha Maker Pro in settings such as cafés, hotels, spas and corporate offices. Locations including Dean & Deluca Hawaii, Ritual Coffee in San Francisco and Fairmont Spa Century Plaza in Los Angeles report serving 30 to 100 matcha drinks per day with the machine, citing its speed and consistency as key advantages. The Cuzen Matcha Maker Pro offers seven adjustable strength levels to accommodate customer preferences and is designed for quick cleaning to minimise downtime. It is currently UL certified, with NSF certification expected in mid-2025. Eijiro Tsukada, founder and CEO of Cuzen Matcha, said: “Matcha is known for its unique balance of caffeine and l-theanine, providing sustained energy and focus without the crash associated with coffee. But until now, producing matcha at a high volume with consistency and excellence has been a challenge." "The Cuzen Matcha Maker Pro simplifies the process and ensures each matcha shot is as fresh and flavorful as possible. It is a perfect solution for high-end cafes looking to distinguish themselves in a saturated market as well as employers wanting to provide a superior amenity to employees returning to the office.”

Foodservice operators know that smooth operations require more than just great food. From managing orders to controlling inventory, every detail matters. To stay efficient and uphold high standards, businesses need reliable tools that streamline both front- and back-of-house operations. 365 Retail Markets offers two solutions tailored to meet the needs of foodservice operators: the 365 Catering Software and the 365 Kitchen Management System. While each solution focuses on different aspects of foodservice, both help businesses improve efficiency and customer satisfaction. The 365 Catering Software simplifies catering and hospitality management. Its cloud-based platform streamlines ordering, approval tracking and billing. Large group orders are easier to manage with individually labeled deliveries, reducing errors and ensuring accuracy. The software also supports dietary compliance with built-in allergen management and customisable on-site menus, helping operators meet diverse customer needs while adhering to food safety guidelines. In the back of house, the 365 Kitchen Management System keeps operations efficient by helping operators track inventory, reduce waste and manage costs. The system makes it simple to monitor stock levels, avoiding both shortages and overordering. Real-time insights help make data-driven decisions on purchasing and food usage, keeping costs under control. Built-in food cost calculations and waste tracking also contribute to maintaining profitability, while clear allergen and nutritional information ensure compliance and transparency. Used separately or together, these solutions give foodservice operators greater control over their business. The 365 Catering Software improves how orders are managed, while the 365 Kitchen Management System keeps back-end processes efficient. Both tools support consistent service quality, reduce costs and help businesses deliver a better experience to customers. At 365 Retail Markets, we believe successful foodservice operations are built on strong partnerships. We work closely with operators to understand their needs and deliver solutions that integrate seamlessly into their businesses. Whether improving front-of-house efficiency, streamlining back-end processes, or both, our solutions are designed to support your goals. Reach out today to learn how our technology can help your business thrive.

De’Longhi has introduced the Linea Classic Espresso Machine, a new home appliance designed to offer café-style coffee drinks with minimal effort. Equipped with a 15-bar Italian pump, the Linea Classic ensures consistent nine-bar extraction for balanced espresso. Thermoblock technology allows for rapid heating and precise temperature control, while the adjustable steam wand provides options for both steamed and foamed milk. Customisable drink presets and a pressure gauge further support ease of use. The compact machine includes a 57oz removable water tank, adjustable drip tray and comes with essential accessories such as a portafilter, tamper, measuring scoop and filter baskets. De’Longhi describes the Linea Classic as a blend of "Italian design" and "modern functionality". Eliza Woolston Sheffield, president of De'Longhi North America, said: "We're proud to introduce the Linea Classic, a true reflection of Italian design and innovation that brings an authentic café experience into the home". "This sleek and compact machine combines timeless style with modern functionality, delivering barista-quality performance while fitting seamlessly on any kitchen counter. Whether crafting rich espresso, creamy cappuccinos or refreshing over-ice drinks – the Linea Classic makes it easy to enjoy exceptional coffee with every brew." Priced at $199.99 in the US and $249.99 in Canada, the machine is now available online and in retail stores including Amazon, Target, Crate & Barrel, Canadian Tire and Walmart Canada.

Indonesia-based coffee chain Flash Coffee has secured an additional $3 million in funding to support its national expansion. The round was led by early-stage ventural capital firm TA Ventures, with continued backing from existing investor White Star Capital. The new investment follows a year of profitability for the chain, which reported average store-level EBITDA margins of 22%, rising to 36% for newer outlets. All existing stores are now profitable, and the company says store revenues have doubled over the past year. Flash Coffee plans to use the capital to grow its footprint to more than 70 stores in 2025 and expand into two new Indonesian cities. Jakob Angele, executive chairman of Flash Coffee, said: "The past year has been about discipline. We've focused on getting the fundamentals right; profitable stores, stronger teams, better menus and spaces that reflect the modern Indonesia. We didn't chase growth; we earned it." "This latest investment will help us scale what works: beautifully designed stores, high-performing teams and a product that speaks to today's Indonesian consumer." The company has also launched a new in-house store design and refreshed branding that aims to strengthen its connection to Indonesian consumers through the use of local materials and cultural references. These design updates are intended to enhance customer loyalty and drive profitability. Richard Armstrong, venture partner and Southeast Asia lead, TA Ventures, added: "We spent significant time analysing the opportunities of this category in Southeast Asia, as a result we're excited to join Flash Coffee's journey. Today's Indonesian consumer is cross-generational, seeking experiences that are meaningful and personal. Flash Coffee has perfectly adapted, responding to this shifting consumer behaviour."

As climate change intensifies and supply chains grow increasingly fragile, the future of coffee faces unprecedented challenges. From rising temperatures to more frequent extreme weather events, coffee farmers around the globe are being forced to adapt or risk being left behind. In this interview, we speak with Hanna Neuschwander, senior advisor of communications at World Coffee Research ( WCR) , to explore the critical role of agricultural R&D in safeguarding the future of coffee, the power of improved varieties and what lies ahead for the organisation as it scales up its global breeding networks for arabica and robusta. Hanna Neuschwander Can you give me a brief overview of the work of your organisation? WCR is a non-profit agricultural research organisation focused on securing the future of coffee in the face of climate change. WCR enables the global coffee industry to make collaborative investments in agricultural R&D to develop high-performing, climate-resilient coffee varieties. Our work spans breeding, variety testing and seed system improvements, helping farmers gain access to better trees. Through global networks – including the Innovea Global Arabica Breeding Network and a forthcoming robusta network – we are transforming the pace and scale of genetic improvement. By partnering with national research institutions in over a dozen countries, we accelerate the development and dissemination of improved varieties that meet the diverse needs of farmers and markets worldwide. What makes a coffee variety sustainable? Improved varieties are one of the most powerful tools we have to address the climate crisis and meet farmer and consumer demand. The key is creating options and choices for farmers that can meet their diverse needs. Today, farmers in many countries have extremely limited choices about which varieties to grow (sometimes only one, sometimes a small handful). In many regions, the coffee varieties available to farmers haven’t seen genetic improvements in 50 or more years. Because the impacts of climate change will be different in different places, farmers need many options, including varieties adapted to drier, hotter, wetter or colder weather; varieties resistant to key diseases thriving in warmer climates, such as coffee leaf rust; varieties which are adapted for agroforestry, which can help farmers improve quality, diversify their incomes and act as carbon sinks. Photo credit: Devon Barker What are the main challenges facing the coffee industry today? Coffee is facing historic high prices right now in part because of two key factors: climate change and origin consolidation. Today only two countries supply the majority of the world’s coffee – Brazil and Vietnam – and both faced climate shocks in 2024 and 2025 that caused coffee production to fall. This is deeply concerning because synchronous climate shocks are on the rise. As the gap between low-productivity and high-productivity countries widens, it speeds up consolidation of producing origins, leaving many farmers behind. At the same time, farmers who have the ability to withstand a climate shock – those with the right coffee trees, who follow climate-smart agricultural practices, and who have access to capital and savings – can take advantage of the economic upside of rising prices. Those who are not able to adapt – those with lower yields and/or destroyed crops – are left behind. How can investment in agricultural R&D benefit stakeholders in the coffee industry? Increasing global investments in coffee R&D to accelerate innovations like improved variety development can support the coffee sector to keep up with growing consumer demand and respond to the challenges of climate change and poverty, while avoiding further consolidation of production. Transformative progress can be made to improve both C arabica and C canephora coffee varieties by expanding coffee breeding efforts globally. Coffee has been one of the most under-researched commodities around the world; by applying the breeding best practices  followed in other crops, coffee production and quality can leap forward. WCR estimates that the global need for coffee agricultural R&D to meet the challenge of climate change in the face of rising demand is $452 million per year over and above current investment levels. How can government intervention and support help farmers and other stakeholders to address these challenges? Governments can have tremendous influence and impact in creating a supportive environment for farmer success. They invest in breeding and other research, train and support farmers through extension services and facilitate favorable trade policy.  Most of the dominant producing countries are successful exporters of coffee precisely because they have extensive national support to their farming sectors. Looking ahead at the challenges of climate change, governments can proactively invest in climate adaptation efforts in geographic areas with high adaptation potential, including coffee replanting and renovation programmes to ensure farmers have access to climate-smart varieties that can thrive even in future climate conditions. Photo credit: World Coffee Research Can you tell me about your work on coffee breeding networks for arabica and robusta? How will they help ensure stable supply? WCR’s global breeding networks for arabica and robusta are directly relevant to supply stability. They bring together 11 countries to make major strides forward in genetic progress and variety release, ensuring farmers will have access to many options for the best high-performing, locally tailored genetics in their fields. The Innovea Global Arabica Breeding Network launched in 2022 and a robusta breeding network will launch in 2025. These networks use global testing and modern breeding techniques to support participating countries to develop varieties that perform well under extreme weather, resist diseases like coffee leaf rust and adapt to diverse growing conditions. The first arabica varieties will be selected no later than 2030, with robusta to follow. Using modern “speed breeding” approaches, we are significantly shortening the amount of time it takes to deliver climate-smart choices to farmers from 25-35 years to six to ten years. Such approaches combine the use of large amounts of genetic information with traditional, non-GM breeding techniques and agronomic practices to speed up the reproductive cycles of trees used in breeding. Looking ahead, what can you tell us about your plans for the next 12 months and beyond? In the coming year, WCR will continue advancing its global breeding and variety testing programs. A major milestone will be the launch of our robusta breeding network in 2025, modeled on our existing arabica network. We will also extend our global variety trial network, which evaluates coffee performance in diverse climates to guide future breeding and farming decisions. These efforts aim to dramatically shorten the timeline for delivering climate-resilient varieties to farmers – from decades to under ten years – and to ensure that improved genetics reach the hands of farmers through strengthened seed systems. Our work remains focused on climate resilience, productivity and long-term supply security. Photo credit: World Coffee Research