One of the things that I've taken from judging coffee competitions is admiration – I now treasure the opportunity to witness some of the world's best baristas at work.

The industry’s biggest competitions, best products, and most innovative brands all gathered in Athens at the end of last week for the World of Coffee 2023. Here's what you missed

Previously, there were limited things a barista could do to reduce or increase the presence of acidity in the cup, but this is changing as new espresso machine technology gives baristas greater control over brew variables, such as flow profiling.

In spite of their presence in the coffee industry for over ten years, the vegan milk category is still often considered the new kid on the block. However, plant-based products have made a serious dent in the once-monopolised milk segment.

Competing is one of the best ways to grow as a coffee professional and as an individual. But growth comes with putting yourself outside of your comfort zone – and that’s exactly what competitions do.

Today, Kenneth Shoji’s coffee shop chain, % Arabica, has grown from one small store in Hong Kong to more than 150 outlets across 20 countries. From its headquarters in Kyoto, it has become an internationally recognised name owing to its minimalist coffee shop design, good-quality coffee, and striking espresso machines.

New Ground dropped in to the London Coffee Festival for an exhilarating four days of exceptional coffees and stand-out innovation that’s set to guide the future of the industry.

Ben Mitchell speaks with German barista champion and judge Nicole Battefeld-Montgomery about the art of steaming milk for coffee – and why it could be about to change.

The UK’s biggest coffee event is returning to the capital this April. Find out what’s in store at London Coffee Festival 2023.

Jordan Montgomery speaks to coffee researcher Dr Robert McKeon Aloe about whether it is time to challenge long-held beliefs about the impact of espresso channelling on the final cup.