As a Specialty coffee veteran, I'm eagerly anticipating the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) tradeshow in Chicago this coming week. I find myself on the brink of a journey back into the heart of the specialty coffee world after a 3 year absence.
Visualizing my upcoming trip to the bustling streets of Chicago, I'm looking forward to exploring row upon row of exhibitors, each showcasing their latest innovations. I have several meetings booked with suppliers, and cupping sessions with Fair Trade, Cafe Imports and Royal Coffee.
Perhaps the thing I'm most looking forward to is reconnecting with other coffee veterans who I've befriended over my 27 years in the business. It's easy to be enthusiastic when taking first steps into the coffee business, but I have the most admiration for the OG's who've survived and thrived over recessions, market crashes, financial crisis and pandemic.
In the days leading up to the event, I'm meticulously planning my itinerary, ensuring that I make the most of every moment spent exploring the tradeshow floor. Armed with a notebook and a palate eager to explore new coffees, I am ready to immerse myself fully in the Chicago coffee carnival.
The Specialty Coffee Association tradeshow in Chicago will be my 20th and promises to be an unforgettable journey into the world of specialty coffee, and I cannot wait to experience it all firsthand and share the highlights via social media, and of course here.