The global coffee supply chain is undergoing a new round of restructuring. Renowned trading company Sucafina has announced its acquisition of the Vietnamese subsidiary of Mercon Coffee Group, which had previously filed for bankruptcy. This move not only has the potential to reshape Vietnam’s coffee export landscape but also strengthen its influence in the international market. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the background of this transaction, the strategic positioning of both companies involved, and the future development potential of Vietnam’s Robusta coffee. [more…]

Delve into how Panama’s Volcán region cultivates top-tier Geisha through high altitudes and unique processing methods. From the geographical environment of Deborah Estate to Jamie Savidan’s transformation story, and the detailed application of carbonic maceration and anaerobic fermentation—this reveals how this land creates extraordinary flavors and uncovers the quality commitment behind smallholder cooperative models. [more…]

The annual June college entrance exams are not only a major milestone for students but also a crucial marketing opportunity for brands. This year, from McDonald’s to Pochaqi, numerous well-known food and beverage brands have launched exam-themed products and promotional campaigns to convey blessings and strengthen their connection with consumers. This article takes an in-depth look at how these brands skillfully aligned with this significant moment through limited-edition offerings, packaging designs, and service upgrades, creating heartwarming and highly engaging marketing cases. [more…]

In recent years, it has become a trend for celebrities to venture into the coffee market. From JJ Lin to Wang Hedi and Jay Chou, many have leveraged their fame to boost their coffee ventures. Bai Jingting’s fashion brand GOODBAI recently opened a coffee shop, which saw fans lining up in huge numbers on its opening day, with some even waiting three hours just for a cup of coffee. Beyond the fan-following effect, how are these celebrity-run coffee shops actually operated? What market strategies and challenges lie beneath the surface of fan enthusiasm? This article takes an in-depth look. [more…]

Many coffee enthusiasts often wonder: does latte art change the flavor of a latte? This article delves into the key factors that shape the flavor of milk-based coffee, and uses practical test data to demonstrate that latte art has almost no impact on taste. In addition, it explores the added value that latte art brings to hot milk coffee in terms of visuals and emotional experience—whether for professional commercial use or personal enjoyment, helping you make a more suitable choice. [more…]

La Esmeralda Estate's Geisha coffee beans have always been highly sought after by specialty coffee enthusiasts. However, with different grades such as Red Label, Green Label, Blue Label, and even Auction lots, many people often feel confused. This article provides a detailed analysis of the actual differences behind these commonly used Chinese terms, helping you understand the precise grading of the three major growing areas: Jaramillo, Canas Verdes, and El Velo. It also delves into the unique flavor characteristics of Panama BOP champion beans and offers suitable brewing recommendations to help you find the Geisha coffee that suits you best. [more…]

Recently, the World Meteorological Organization predicted a high probability of La Niña re-emerging in the second half of the year, which could trigger a chain reaction across global agricultural production and commodity markets. Among these, coffee—as a climate-sensitive crop—has drawn significant attention regarding its price trends. This article delves into the potential impact of La Niña on Brazil’s Robusta coffee production, explores how it is gradually closing in on Vietnam’s global dominance, and provides insights into possible future price fluctuations and supply chain challenges. [more…]

Starbucks has recently submitted a series of trademark registration applications in Russia, sparking widespread speculation in the market about whether it is preparing to re-enter the local market. From its core brand "Starbucks Coffee" to key identifiers such as "Frappuccino," as well as categories including instant coffee and membership management, what is the deeper meaning behind this series of moves? This article will delve into the strategic intent behind Starbucks' current trademark filings and explore the current state and potential challenges of the Russian coffee market. [more…]

As the coffee market price war intensifies, Lucky Cafe has been attracting consumers with its affordable price of 6.6 RMB. However, in Zhengzhou, some store signs have been changed to "Lucky Cup." This wave of renaming has drawn public attention—Is it a defensive trademark strategy by the brand, or is there more to the story? This article delves into the reasons behind the sign changes and provides key points for consumers to identify the difference. [more…]

The 2024 East Africa Harvest Taste of Harvest (TOH) competition in Ethiopia has successfully concluded in the capital city of Addis Ababa. This year, a total of 75 coffee companies participated with over 200 Arabica entries, covering various processing methods including natural, washed, and honey. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the Natural Process champion Testi Trading Plc, the Washed Process champion Eseham Trading plc, and the Honey Process champion Yihonal T. [more…]

Hopes Estate in Colombia’s Cauca region is renowned for its five high-altitude farms, cultivating premium coffee varieties such as Geisha and Sidra. This article delves into the elevation distribution, soil characteristics, and main varieties of each farm, and introduces how the Herrera family crafts distinctive flavors through refined processing methods. It also provides recommended pour over brewing parameters to help you explore the unique charm of this coffee haven. [more…]

As the world’s leading supplier of Robusta coffee, Vietnam’s seasonal dynamics have a significant impact on the global market. The latest agricultural report estimates that Vietnam’s coffee production for the 2024/25 season will reach 29 million bags, but abnormal weather conditions and changes in planting structure are introducing uncertainties. This article delves into the farmer behaviors behind the production adjustments, the current state of the export market, and the potential impacts of the La Niña phenomenon, helping readers stay informed on the latest developments in key producing regions. [more…]

A coffee shop named Mina in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, sparked public outrage with its controversial "one-way glass" concept that allowed male customers to observe female customers. The establishment has not only been accused of objectifying women but also faces multiple issues including unlicensed operation and fire safety violations. This article delves into the full story behind the incident, explores why the coffee shop’s business model is so contentious, and reveals the various regulatory breaches uncovered by police investigations. [more…]

A 41st-floor coffee shop in Guangzhou, celebrated for its breathtaking views of the Canton Tower, has become a popular social media hotspot, attracting numerous young visitors. However, this photo-taking craze has led to crowded elevators and occupied public spaces, severely disrupting the daily routines of office workers in the building. This article analyzes the reasons behind the trend and offers practical advice to help readers understand how to balance the desire for Instagram-worthy moments with the needs of the office environment. [more…]

Have you ever experienced your home-brewed espresso suddenly splattering from the sides, with inconsistent flow rate or even pale thin streams? This is actually uneven extraction caused by “channeling.” This article delves into the causes of channeling, including common issues such as uneven coffee distribution, overly fine grind size, and static clumping, and provides practical extraction parameter suggestions to help you master standard home brewing methods and produce espresso with balanced flavor and smooth mouthfeel. [more…]

Behind the name “Golden Mandheling” lies the stringent quality control upheld by Indonesia’s PWN company. Since the second generation took over in 1977, the company has aimed to establish high-standard export regulations, focusing on the export of premium Mandheling and Robusta beans. This article delves into how PWN has shaped the evaluation criteria for Golden Mandheling and takes you through the historical background and characteristics of Sumatra’s coffee-growing regions, helping you gain a fuller appreciation of the allure of this classic Indonesian bean. [more…]

Want to enjoy a latte but afraid of bitterness? Flavored lattes are a gentle entry point into espresso-based coffee. This article dives deep into the logic behind syrup pairings for flavored lattes, debunks the myth of whether you can froth milk with added sugar, and shares practical tips to elevate flavor complexity. From fundamental principles to key points for making it at home, learn the secrets to café-quality smooth milky coffee — complete with step-by-step visual guides. [more…]

At an alleyway in Cicheng Ancient Town, Ningbo, the signs of ChaBaTeaJi and Starbucks happened to be placed side by side. The red and green color schemes, along with the surrounding architecture, unexpectedly created a visual effect similar to public toilet signage, triggering heated online discussions and remix content. From brand positioning and market strategies to product details, we take you deep into the fun and actual competitive dynamics behind this viral "public toilet commercial rivalry." [more…]

The job of a barista may seem glamorous, but it often comes with the dual challenges of low pay and high pressure. This article delves into the current salary situation of baristas nationwide, with a particular focus on the actual income under the 'base salary + piece-rate' model in regions such as Shanghai, and explores the choices practitioners face between passion and reality, offering concrete advice to help find a career breakthrough. [more…]

Recently, many cafes and bookstores have required customers to make purchases based on seating or the number of people, sparking heated discussions. Especially when two people share a pot of tea but are asked to order separately, many consumers feel puzzled or even dissatisfied. What exactly are the business considerations behind "charging per person"? Where do the differences in perspective between merchants and customers come from? This article takes an in-depth look at multiple real-life cases, dissecting the reasons and impacts of this common rule, and also provides tips that consumers should be aware of to help you better enjoy your coffee time. [more…]