More than 100 people from Brisbane’s café scene attended Brewing Brands’ inaugural speed-dating event which brought together all sides of the industry to get to know each other at the distribution business’ Murrarie headquarters on Thursday November 7.
The highlight of the event was the chance to crown Brisbane’s best barista with 10 of the city’s leading baristas battling it out for a share of $1000 in the Brewing Brands Barista Battle.
Hannah Fielding from Simonelli Group, Trent Goodwin from Bear Bones and Karl Lee, who is an Australian Specialty Coffee Association Brewers Cup Judge, had the tough job of judging the best latte art using Milklab Almond, The Alternative Dairy Co Oat, Sproud Barista, Oatly, Macamilk and Happy Happy Soy Boy.
After creating a free pour swan design using The Alternative Dairy Co Oat milk, Joe Fung from Little Forest Café in Cooper Plains was crowned Brisbane’s best barista, taking home the winner’s cheque.
The event was also like a mini expo, offering some smaller players the chance to show off their wares without the need to outlay the usual investment required for a larger event. Representatives from Somersault Soda, Milklab, Remedy Kombucha, The Alternative Dairy Co, Sips, Wellness by Tess, Hrvst St and Origin Tea were among the suppliers who attended.
Guest speakers including Sara Azad from Ordermentum, Linda Dang from Evisory, Catherine Michael from CM Ink and Brewing Brands CEO Chris Seaton, shared some advice and inspiration across myriad topics such as turbocharging sales and marketing and how to streamline operations and finances during a downturn.
Fonzie Abbott and Margarita Margarita kept the drinks flowing and food was provided by Paella Man.
The Brisbane distribution business decided to put on the event to offer an accessible and affordable way for cafes and suppliers to connect, seek new partnerships and expand their network to help everyone grow their business during these tough times.
Brewing Brands CEO Chris Seaton said he hoped the event was what the local industry needed.
“It has been a really tough year for the industry and we wanted to do something to support the people behind the products and cafes that are part of our daily lives. Whether it’s an almond latte to-go made with love by a barista at a café, enjoying a cup of chai and a chat with a friend, or a refreshing cold-pressed juice or kombucha on a hot day, local cafes – and the food and drink they serve – are an integral part of daily life. We want them to feel loved and supported so they can continue to do their good work, especially during these hard times,” Chris said.
“We had a fantastic time hanging out with new and old friends and connecting all sides of the industry so they can work together and support each other. We look forward to doing it all again next year, even bigger and better.”
For more information, visit Instagram.com/brewingbrands_supply or brewingbrands.com.au