Swiss coffee machine manufacturer Schaerer has launched a new '2-step' configuration for its Coffee Soul 10 and 12 models, responding to the growing demand for efficient preparation of speciality coffees in the food and beverage sector. This latest offering aims to balance the need for speed and quality in coffee service, particularly in high-demand environments. The '2-step' configuration replaces the fully automated milk system with steam wands that allow for varying degrees of manual foaming. This design enables faster service by allowing baristas to prepare espresso and milk foam simultaneously, thereby reducing customer wait times during peak hours. The system also enhances flexibility by accommodating different milk types and plant-based options, catering to diverse consumer preferences. By eliminating the need for an automatic milk system and cooling unit, the new configuration also presents lower investment and maintenance costs for operators. This could be particularly appealing for smaller establishments or those looking to streamline their operations without compromising on beverage quality. Schaerer’s Coffee Soul machines are designed to output up to 250 cups per day, making them suitable for busy coffee shops and restaurants. The addition of a third boiler can further enhance performance, allowing for the simultaneous preparation of hot water, steam and coffee at different temperatures – a crucial feature during high-traffic periods. The '2-step' configuration is complemented by three variations of steam wands, catering to different levels of barista expertise. The 'Supersteam' wand automates the frothing process, allowing operators to preset temperature and foam consistency for up to eight beverages. This automation enables staff to focus on other tasks while the machine handles milk frothing. Alternatively, the 'Autosteam' wand offers partial automation, requiring staff to monitor foam consistency visually, while the 'Powersteam' wand allows for complete manual control, enabling skilled baristas to create intricate latte art. Schaerer’s 'Mix & Match' principle further allows customers to customise their machines according to specific business needs, including design elements, the number of grinders, and additional features like syrup stations and hot and cold technology. #Schaerer #coffeemachine #coffee Do you have a coffee product or service you want to showcase on the global stage? Don’t miss your chance...The World Coffee Innovation Awards are still open for entries until Wednesday 3 September.

The FoodBev team are excited to welcome back the thrilling world of innovative technology solutions for the second year running. The World Catering Technology Awards are gearing up to celebrate the cutting-edge advancements that reshape the way we experience dining services globally. The World Catering Technology Awards are not your ordinary recognition ceremony. Here, creativity, functionality and efficiency merge to honour the game-changers in the world of technology-driven catering services. From groundbreaking software solutions to revolutionary kitchen gadgets, these awards shine a spotlight on the innovators who are transforming the industry one bite at a time. 2025 winners ceremony at Hotel, Restaurant & Catering 2025 All eyes are on our winners at the awards ceremony, set to take place at the renowned HRC event at London's ExCel from 17-19 March 2025. The anticipation is palpable as industry professionals gear up to discover the winners who have pushed the boundaries of innovation and excellence in catering technology. For more than 88 years Hotel, Restaurant & Catering (HRC) has stood at the forefront of hospitality innovation, welcoming thousands of visitors every year to test, taste and discover the latest products from the finest suppliers in the market. FoodBev has the pleasure of announcing and celebrating the winners of the 2025 award at HRC for the second year, allowing participants to showcase their innovative solutions to the industry at the leading event for catering and food service. New 'Solution' categories In a world where technology is evolving at lightning speed, the World Catering Technology Awards provide a platform to celebrate the brilliance and ingenuity of those who dare to dream beyond conventional boundaries. From robotic chefs to AI-powered menu customisation, the possibilities are limitless, and the awards are a testament to the endless potential of technological advancements in the food service sector. This year the FoodBev Awards team have created a category list to celebrate how technology is used as a solution to a problem and in practice. From ' Kitchen Management Solutions' to ' Guest Experience' and 'Food Delivery Solutions' , this year's categories provide businesses with the opportunity to celebrate how their product solves an issue faced by the industry. Hear from last year's winners Let's embark on this exhilarating journey together as we explore the intersection of food, technology and creativity at the World Catering Technology Awards! Remember, the World Catering Technology Awards are not just about celebrating the present; they are about shaping the future of dining experiences around the world. Embrace the excitement, join the conversation, and be a part of a revolution that is transforming the way we think about food service technology. Get ready to witness the magic unfold at the World Catering Technology Awards! 🌟

Eggo and Two Rivers Coffee Company have teamed up to introduce Eggo Coffee, a new line of coffee inspired by Eggo’s iconic waffle flavours. The new product signifies Eggo’s first entry into the caffeinated beverage market. Eggo Coffee combines the taste of Eggo waffles with the rich aroma of coffee. The line includes five distinct flavours made from 100% Arabica beans: blueberry, chocolate chip, cinnamon toast, maple syrup and vanilla. Sam Blaney, director of marketing for Two Rivers Coffee, said: "Many of us have fond memories of eating Eggo waffles throughout our childhood, and now, there's a whole new way to indulge in a taste of that nostalgia thanks to our Eggo Coffee. Inspired by classic Eggo waffle flavours and the flair for flavour innovation at Two Rivers Coffee, each cup infuses a unique flavour that pairs perfectly with your favourite breakfast." The coffee is available in Keurig-compatible pods, sold in 12 or 40-count packs. It can be purchased from Amazon, Walmart, Target and through Two Rivers Coffee's website, with prices starting at $7.99 for 12 pods and $24.99 for 40 pods. #Eggo #TwoRiversCoffee

SSP Group, an operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations, has secured a contract with SOF Connect, the operator of Sofia Airport, to manage 12 new outlets at the airport. The agreement, which is SSP's first in Bulgaria, will introduce a mix of international and local brands, including Starbucks, Burger King and TGI Fridays, alongside SSP's own concepts such as Levito - Pizza Pasta, Negroni, Camden Food Co, and bespoke outlets like Meshana - Taste of Bulgaria and Bar 09-27. The development will include a modern food court area designed to meet international industry standards, featuring a central common seating area and an outdoor terrace. Jesus Caballero, CEO of SOF Connect, said: “We are very pleased to partner with SSP to bring a world-class food and beverage experience to Sofia Airport. This contract is a testament to our commitment to enhancing the passenger experience and making Sofia Airport a five-star regional airport." George Antoniou, managing director of SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East, added: “We’re proud to be working in collaboration with SOF Connect to create an even better airport experience in the region. Our strong and innovative range of bespoke, local and international brands and cutting-edge design, as well as our understanding of the needs of international and local passengers, will enable us to create an environment that captures the true spirit of hospitality and heritage that is so much a part of Bulgarian culture. These magnificent bars, restaurants and cafes will cement our reputation in this important new market.” The project will be rolled out in phases, beginning with the opening of Starbucks and Camden Food Co in early 2025. #SSPGroup #Bulgaria

As coffee culture evolves, Ashley Palmer-Watts, chef and co-founder of Artisan Coffee Co, explores the future of brewing. Discover how trends like at-home barista-grade brews, premium quality beverages and automation are set to redefine the coffee experience for consumers and businesses alike. The world of coffee is complex, exciting and ever-changing. As we approach the last quarter of the year and look ahead to 2025, the industry is experiencing a fourth wave. From automation to at-home baristas, emerging trends will overhaul how brands operate and how consumers enjoy their coffee. The at-home barista With the rising cost of takeaway coffee – now as high as £5.50 in London – more consumers are opting to create their own barista experience in the comfort of home. The tide is shifting for coffee shops, as the trend of overpriced, low-quality coffee seems to be fading. In response to the economic landscape, consumers are becoming more discerning and turning to home brewing as a preferred option. However, this doesn’t signal a resurgence of instant coffee. Today’s consumers demand more from their brew, reflecting a growing awareness and appetite for speciality coffee. More than beans As more people brew coffee at home, they are increasingly interested in the entire brewing process and eager to learn about their coffee’s origin and the best brewing methods. This growing engagement will lead to a stronger emphasis on storytelling in coffee marketing, offering consumers a more premium and educational experience. A compelling story can significantly enhance the customer journey. Flavour at the forefront Fortunately, the era of relying on low-quality coffee suppliers is over. Operators are now discovering better-quality beans with exceptional flavour. After years of dealing with suppliers who offered ‘free’ equipment but inflated bean prices, businesses can now provide high-quality coffee without hidden costs. Premium coffee has arrived, meeting the growing consumer demand for superior quality and excellent taste. Consistency without compromise Operators seek consistent, high-quality coffee, and automation offers a solution. However, balancing manual machines with automation presents challenges in training and staff turnover. Semi-automation provides an effective compromise, allowing for daily manual adjustments while benefiting from automation’s consistency. Moreover, automation is transforming coffee preparation by enabling users to program steam wands for various milk types, including plant-based alternatives, aligning with the growing popularity of these options. Enhancing experience The customer experience is now central to the hospitality industry, with coffee playing a crucial role in this shift. From innovative in-room coffee bags to freshly brewed cups in restaurants, guests’ expectations have risen significantly. As customers become more discerning from their at-home coffee experiences, they now demand the same high standards wherever they go. Half caff Businesses are now boosting afternoon trade with alternative low-caff or half-caffeinated options. The trending ‘half caff’ coffee offers the perfect middle ground between fully caffeinated and decaf drinks. #Coffee #trends Do you have a new coffee product, technology or solution? The World Coffee Innovation Awards , happening this October, celebrate the innovators and trendsetters transforming the coffee industry. For more information and to submit your entry, visit: foodbevawards.com/coffee-innovation-awards .

Juno, a new beverage brand, has introduced a trio of premium drinks aimed at transforming how consumers manage energy, hydration and relaxation throughout the day. The new products include: Rocket, a morning energiser, combines organic green coffee bean extract with Celtic salt, calcium and potassium to provide sustained energy and optimal hydration; Cruise, designed for all-day hydration, is fortified with essential vitamins to maintain peak performance; and Descend, an evening beverage, contains magnesium and glycine to promote relaxation and prepare the body for sleep. A spokesperson for the brand said: "Juno was created to offer a truly effective solution for modern, health-conscious consumers. Our products support a day well lived, from sunrise to sunset, without the crashes or jitters associated with traditional energy drinks." The trio is available for purchase via the brand's website. Top image: © Juno #Juno

YouTube star and entrepreneur Emma Chamberlain, alongside Gustav Hossy, has been named co-CEO of Chamberlain Coffee, five years after founding the company. Chamberlain and Hossy, both involved with Chamberlain Coffee since its inception, will replace former CEO Christopher Gallant. Hossy previously served as COO, overseeing operations and leading strategic initiatives that contributed to the company's growth. Emma Chamberlain and Gustav Hossy Founded in 2019, Chamberlain Coffee has grown significantly, expanding its product line to include premium beans, cold brew bags, matcha and ready-to-drink lattes. The brand is now available in over 12,000 retail locations, including Walmart and Whole Foods. Chamberlain said: “In tandem with growing the Chamberlain Coffee business over the last few years, I have strengthened my goals as a founder, grown a deep passion for the strategic side of business and learnt an extraordinary amount about entrepreneurship as a whole. Stepping into this new role will allow me to fully utilise my voice at Chamberlain Coffee, and I have never been more excited for the future." Hossy added: "I'm excited to lead Chamberlain Coffee with Emma into a new chapter of growth, focusing on a sustainable business model, passion for the brand, innovation, expansion and delivering value to consumers." Top image: © Chamberlain Coffee #ChamberlainCoffee #coCEOs #appointment

Clipper Teas, an organic tea brand and subsidiary of Ecotone UK, has launched four new flavours in its Infusions range. The new offerings aim to enhance consumer connection to nature while promoting wellness through organic ingredients. The newly introduced flavours include Peppermint & Spearmint, Chamomile & Peach, Blackcurrant & Blueberry, and Orange & Turmeric, all priced at £3.40. These infusions will be available at major retailers including Waitrose, Ocado and Sainsbury’s. Hannah Williams, senior brand manager at Clipper, noted that the brand has experienced a 55% increase in value over the past year. “Our Infusions have resonated with consumers, and our ethical credentials, such as organic and B Corp certifications, have contributed to our expanding market share,” she added. The introduction of these new flavours and the emphasis on functional benefits align with increasing consumer demand for wellness products. The new packaging features vibrant designs and clear product naming, with popular blends being rebranded for clarity – Snore & Peace is now Sleep Time, and Restoring Roots has been renamed Ginger & Turmeric. The redesign aims to stand out on retail shelves and attract health-conscious consumers seeking functional beverages. Clipper's commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of biodegradable, unbleached tea bags and fully recyclable packaging. The company has a long-standing reputation for ethical sourcing, being the first in the UK to offer Fairtrade tea in 1994 and currently supporting over 114,000 producers globally. The company continues to blend and package its teas at its facility in Beaminster, Dorset, which has operated for 40 years. #ClipperTeas   #EcotoneUK   #tea

Alimentation Couche-Tard, a Canadian operator of convenience stores, has announced an agreement to acquire GetGo Café + Market from US-based supermarket chain Giant Eagle. GetGo operates around 270 convenience and filling stations across five states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland and Indiana. The business employs approximately 3,500 people and offers a diverse range of convenience store models, including open-concept stores and kiosks, with a focus on made-to-order foods. The deal will see Couche-Tard and Giant Eagle maintain a partnership on Giant Eagle's myPerks loyalty programme. Brian Hannasch, president and CEO of Couche-Tard, said: "We are excited to welcome GetGo into the Couche-Tard family. As we learn more about the GetGo business, it is clear that it has built a strong and passionate customer base with high-quality stores staffed by talented and engaged teams working to deliver a great experience." "We have deep respect for its management and people as well as its outstanding food and loyalty programmes. We look forward to growing together as we learn from and continue GetGo's innovative approaches to serving its local customers and communities." Bill Artman, CEO of Giant Eagle, added: "We are energised by the potential for both Giant Eagle and GetGo as a result of this transaction. This enhances our focus on our core supermarket and pharmacy businesses, strengthening Giant Eagle and better enabling us to make strategic investments in our people, stores and value proposition while matching GetGo with the perfect partner in Couche-Tard." "Their depth of experience in convenience stores and fuel will create tremendous opportunities for our team members and customers, and we look forward to partnering with them on the myPerks loyalty programme." The transaction, expected to close in 2025, is subject to regulatory approval. Financial terms have not been disclosed. Last week, Seven & I, the parent company of convenience store giant 7-Eleven, announced that it had received a preliminary takeover offer from Couche-Tard . Top image: © Giant Eagle #AlimentationCoucheTard #GetGoCaféMarket

Oasis International is expanding its outdoor product line with the introduction of various new, sustainable hydration solutions. The new Oasis Outdoor Bottle Fillers offer a range of configurations to meet diverse consumer needs. The line includes a freestanding bottle filler, a retrofit vandal-resistant (VR) outdoor bottle filler for existing drinking fountains and combination units that cater to various hydration demands. All Oasis Outdoor Bottle Fillers are designed to be durable and easy to use, with vandal-resistant features ensuring longevity. The new bottle fillers are intended for a variety of settings including parks, schools and city centres, reflecting the company's commitment to reliable hydration solutions both indoors and outdoors. #Oasis #water

In this exclusive interview, Scott Johnson, newly appointed EVP of strategy and development at Enliven and former SVP and GM of the foodservice business unit at Keurig Dr Pepper, unpacks insights into the rapidly evolving beverage industry. With 30 years of experience in foodservice and beverage negotiations, Johnson shares how his extensive background guides his strategy at Enliven, focusing on driving growth, adapting to shifting consumer trends and navigating regulatory challenges in an increasingly competitive market. Congratulations on your new role at Enliven! What motivated your decision to transition into this role and how will your experience at KDP influence your position at Enliven? After 30 years serving customers at Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP), I contemplated where my experience in foodservice and fountain negotiation could provide the most value. Having led the KDP foodservice team and reviewing our deals with nearly all large foodservice and convenience customers, I know that experience will be a great benefit to Enliven customers.  What is your vision for Enliven and how do you plan to drive growth and innovation within the company?  To really impact the bottom line in the beverage business, it’s not just about negotiating competitive deals, but growing beverage sales. What has drawn me to Enliven is the comprehensive life cycle management of beverage contracts for the customer, driven by robust data and analytics. With those tools we will drive a strong beverage support programme through execution of all contract commitments, volume tracking and analytics, payment fulfilment and category management excellence – all to maximise sales over the term. Providing this level of service is an incredible value that, if understood and valued properly, will deliver many growth opportunities.    How has your experience in the beverage space helped you to navigate through a volatile and rapidly changing retail service environment?  This industry has had massive changes over time – particularly related to bottler consolidation and the improvement around the route to market distribution. This has positively impacted foodservice operators. Alongside these efficiencies by the beverage companies have come increasingly competitive support for pouring rights deals in many channels. The sharing of revenue back to customers as a result of this competitive landscape has created an advantage for some channels or chains and left opportunities for others.   Are there specific strategies or initiatives that you plan to implement in your new role?  The message I will share with our clients will be the same message that I shared on the supplier side at KDP. A foodservice customer can get the best financial deal and offer the best variety to maximise sales. At Enliven, we utilise strong data and analytics to maximise the value of the deal, but importantly, focus on the possible larger impact of maximising sales with strong programming and selling customer-preferred brands. In your opinion, how are changing consumer preferences, such as the shift towards healthier and more sustainable options, impacting the beverage industry? What do you think are the solutions here? Consumer preference is dramatically affecting the innovation outlook of the industry. Suppliers that are offering solutions that meet these consumers' evolving demands will continue to win whether it is in functional benefits or healthier low/no sugar offerings. This needs to be balanced with the consumer's desire for indulgent flavours. Consumer and corporate demands will continue to challenge the beverage industry to provide more environmentally friendly packaging, as we’ve seen recently after the Paris Olympics. How is technology transforming the beverage industry, from production to distribution? The focus on supply chain systems and economics as a result of significant stress during the Covid-19 pandemic has fundamentally changed the efficiency and reliability of the entire supply chain – to the benefit of the large manufacturers and their customers. Considering these efficiencies alongside an environment of inflation and large price increases, it calls into question how reasonably these savings have been shared back to the trade.  Do you think innovation is slowing down in the beverage industry? Innovation is not slowing down in the beverage business. One simply needs to visit Whole Foods or Central Market and look at the amazing innovative beverages being introduced. What has not evolved are beverage options in foodservice, which in many cases do not look meaningfully different than in the nineties. Evolving beverage choice is a significant opportunity in foodservice to meet the changing consumer landscape. The good news is that there are solutions that can be implemented.  How do evolving regulations around health, safety and environmental standards affect the beverage industry? What advice would you give to clients navigating these regulatory challenges? Beverage companies have made significant progress over the past ten years related to overall calorie reduction, lower average sugar content per serving and portion size options. Additionally, efforts to create more environmentally friendly packaging have created positive change. That said, there is still a lot of work to be done. While the pace of change is driven by consumer preference, much can be done by retailers to offer a strong variety of products with health and functional benefits and alternative packaging. Foodservice chain customers can affect supplier behaviour and consumer acceptance by challenging the status quo of what suppliers are offering. If beverage companies resist offering the right variety of products, there are an innumerable number of innovative products available that can provide the variety needed. Clients should aggressively push to bring that variety to their consumers and align with their company values.    The foodservice industry has faced significant changes, especially post-pandemic. What is your outlook on the future of foodservice? The future of foodservice is incredibly strong. Competition will continue to increase and cost of goods challenges will mount, but consumers will continue to look for convenient and satisfying options that align with their lifestyle. Chains that have adapted to the new world of more meals provided for take-out, delivery and drive-thru are ahead of the game. Those who have found ways to drive ticket averages by including side items and the right variety of drinks to complement the full meal will be rewarded.    You played a key role in making the Dr Pepper beverage a hit in the US, could you share your recipe for success? What advice do you have for other beverage companies looking to scale new heights? Creating an organisational culture that is curious to learn and innovate with the customer in mind, and delights in being a part of a close-knit team that celebrates each other’s success, makes challenging work rewarding and fulfilling. Importantly, having the pleasure to sell a strong brand also goes a long way! #Enliven #exclusive

Starbucks has opened its first store in Ecuador earlier this month, as part of its continued expansion across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The new café, located at Scala Mall in Quito, is the first of five planned stores in the country over the next year. A second store opened at Condado Mall last Thursday, 22 August, followed by another at Centro Comercial Iñaquito, which is set to open in October. Two more stores are planned for 2025. The stores will be operated by Delonorte, a subsidiary of Delosi, which also manages Starbucks locations in Peru and Bolivia. The opening represents Starbucks' 25th market in Latin America and the Caribbean and the 8th globally. It also marks the company's 1,700th store in the LAC region. The 140-square-metre store in Scala Mall is designed to reflect Ecuador’s rich coffee heritage. The café features a central mural by Ecuadorian artist Apitatán (also known as Juan Sebastián Aguirre Ríos), celebrating local culture with themes of ancestry, nature and coffee. The store also holds certification as a Greener Store, part of Starbucks' global initiative to reduce its carbon, water and waste footprints by 50% by 2030. Ricardo Arias-Nath, SVP and president of Starbucks in Latin America and the Caribbean, said: “We are tremendously proud to celebrate our 1,700th store in Latin America and the Caribbean with the opening of Ecuador’s first Starbucks café in the historic and vibrant city of Quito". "Starbucks has been sourcing high-quality Arabica coffee from Ecuador for over a decade, and with our first store opening in the market, we look forward to creating moments of connection over coffee for Ecuadorian customers and continuing the rich coffee traditions inherent to the region.” Cristel Delgado, brand manager of Starbucks Ecuador, added: “Our commitment to Ecuador is long-term. We are very happy to be able to connect with the market’s coffee culture and traditions, and we are honoured to open our first store in Ecuador". "We aim to make a positive impact in our communities by creating jobs, establishing a third place for our customers, elevating everyday moments and providing flavourful experiences for our partners and customers. This is just the beginning of our efforts to foster connections and celebrate the vibrant spirit of our community." Last month, Starbucks appointed former PepsiCo chief strategy and transformation officer, Ricardo Arias-Nath, as its new senior vice president and president of its Latin America and Caribbean division . #Starbucks #Ecuador