The Hunt Is On For The UK’s BEST BARISTA!

London: The UKBC (UK Barista Championship) will be holding regional Barista Championships throughout the UK in January and February 2007

The exciting and much anticipated events will determine the barista who will represent their region in the UK final and, if successful, compete in the World Barista Championship (WBC) in Tokyo.

Searching for the ultimate coffee experience is precisely what the World Barista Championships is all about. Quite simply, we want to put the very best barista talent to the test to discover people at the height of their powers in mastering their craft.

The events, organised by the UKBC and the Specialty Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE), will be hosted by members of the SCAE and offer local baristi the opportunity to meet the UK’s premier baristi, try the latest equipment and share their knowledge with each other. Sponsors of the event supply the necessary support and equipment to ensure the events are as successful as possible.

John Sherwood, Executive Coordinator of the UKBC comments:

“Barista competitions are hugely important within the coffee community. The objective of the UKBC and the umbrella WBC is to grow the Barista's knowledge of, and expertise in, the preparation and serving of specialty, espresso coffee through competitions. These events enable this to happen. They are also a fantastic opportunity for baristi to get together in a fun and competitive environment, to share tips and experiences and therefore help to build a wider, global barista community.”

The specialty coffee industry has experienced huge growth in the past 5 years, with Barista Championships taking place in 38 countries around the World in 2007. The champion barista from each of these countries will be competing in Tokyo in August 2007 for the chance to be crowned World Barista Champion, a much coveted title currently held by Klaus Thomsen of Denmark.

To find out more about the UK Barista Championship and how to enter the forthcoming competitions visit www.ukbaristachampionship.co.uk.