Coffee producers create charismatic hybrid roaster-cafes
Implications - As the locavore movement continues to influence all manner of consumer spending, many independent coffee roasters are introducing cafe concepts that include on-site roasting facilities. While many consumers interested in ethical consumption have the desire to support local, limitations related to climate make the local roasting of directly sourced beans the only real sustainable option. Highlighting the evolving relationship between consumers and the businesses they patronize, this shift also emphasizes a desire to support ethical labor practices.
Workshop Question - What relationship does your brand have with ethical labor practices? How can it be improved upon?
Trend Themes
1. Local Coffee Roasting - Independent coffee roasters introducing cafe concepts that include on-site roasting facilities to support ethical labor practices and appeal to consumers interested in ethical consumption.
2. Experiential Coffee Bars - Coffee shops providing consumers with an interactive experience that provides in-depth knowledge on the coffee-making process from harvesting to drinking, along with the use of beacons to guide and enhance this experience.
3. Open-concept Coffee Shops - Unique cafe layouts that promote and elevate coffee, encourage patron interaction with master roasters and host regular coffee education courses for the community.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality Industry - The hospitality industry can leverage local coffee roasting trends that include on-site roasting facilities and ethical labor practices to offer customers a unique experience.
2. Marketing Industry - The marketing industry can leverage experiential coffee bars to attract and engage customers in an immersive and multi-sensory way.
3. Food and Beverage Industry - The food and beverage industry can leverage open-concept coffee shops to promote products and services while providing customers with educational opportunities to enhance their coffee knowledge.
