LONG BEACH (Commodity Online): The Specialty Coffee Association of America's (SCAA) 24th Annual Exposition & Symposium will be held in Portland, Oregon this April 19-22, 2012.
At the annual exposition, thousands of coffee professionals from more than 40 countries will converge at the Oregon Convention Center to focus on specialty coffee, learn about the latest innovational trends and products in the coffee marketplace, and engage with fellow industry professionals for the ultimate purpose of delivering a better experience for coffee drinkers.
At the SCAA's 4th annual Symposium, held immediately prior to the Exposition April 18-19, 2012, executives and coffee professionals from around the world will convene to discuss and collectively address major issues around quality and sustainability. The 2012 Host sponsor is locally based Boyds Coffee.
Last year's Event welcomed more than 8,000 coffee professionals and a show floor featuring more than 700 exhibitor booths representing all things specialty coffee and tea, including: green and roasted specialty coffee, espresso machines and grinders, roasting equipment, brewing machines, coffee drinks and mixes, flavorings and syrups, chocolate and cocoa products, baked goods, and much more.
Attendees wishing to expand their skill set and learn from credentialed SCAA Lead Instructors can register for Skill Building Workshops (SBW) which are integral to the SCAA Professional Development Program. These hands on courses focus on coffee preparation, taught according to SCAA standards and protocols grading and evaluation, coffee business, roasting, coffee science and technology.
Other activities at the event include several annual competitions: the United States Barista Championship (USBC), US Brewers Cup, US Cup Tasters Championship, the Roasters Guild Coffees of the Year Competition (COTY) and Roasters Choice Competition. Top-tier baristas, roasters, coffee cuppers, and producers from around the world will compete for the coveted titles.
Additional events include the Rainforest Alliance and International Women in Coffee breakfasts as well as award receptions recognizing industry excellence such as the Best New Product & Sustainability Awards, among others.
