Coffee has been a mainstay in American culture and many other cultures around the globe. According to the National Coffee Association (NCA), consumption of this magical beverage here in the States has reached a two-decade high.
Among the 68% of Americans who enjoy coffee each day, a smaller subset of enthusiasts are indulging in what’s now known as coffee tourism. From traveling domestically to the best cafés and roasters to jetsetting to other countries to learning how beans are grown and harvested, there are many ways to expand your love of coffee.
Whether you’re a shop owner who would like to earn a spot on the coffee tourism must-see list or are a home barista interested in exploring what’s out there, here’s a glimpse into the two biggest trends:
International Coffee Tourism
Now that international travel is possible again, we expect to see an uptick in tourists traveling to countries known for coffee production. The world’s largest coffee producers include Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer, and tourists who love all things coffee will increasingly make the trek to this country to see firsthand how it’s made. With approximately 6.7 million acres dedicated to coffee growing, there are plenty of destinations for tourists to choose in this country.
For those less interested in coffee production, overseas destinations like Italy will be on the must-see list for those who want a taste of the origins of espresso.
Increased Interest in Touring Specialty Cafés
Although international coffee tourism is rising in popularity, so is the fascination with specialty cafés and coffee roasters here in the U.S.
Large chains have lost some of their appeal, while specialty shops are continuing to pop up throughout the country. While some coffee enthusiasts are drawn to historic stores in the coffee capital of the U.S., others are on the search for shops that have mastered a specific craft, such as pour-over or French press options.
Planning a trip centered around coffee is more commonplace than you may imagine. With COVID-19 protocols relaxing, those who are crazy about coffee have more opportunities to explore coffee-growing destinations at the source or travel cross-country to find hidden gems.
Whether you’re a café owner hoping to attract die-hard enthusiasts with specialty coffees or are a coffee connoisseur yourself, we’re here to help you find the products you need to brew truly great coffee and espresso. From prosumer and commercial machines to high-tech accessories, we’ve got it all and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Ready to chat? Please contact our friendly and knowledgeable customer service team.