2024 EMEA Barista Championships
All around Europe, the Middle East and Africa, there is a tangible buzz of anticipation as the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships prepare to take centre stage. This year's competition promises to be a landmark event, featuring a record-breaking number of national winners competing for the coveted purple apron, only one of which is awarded each year.
A Regional Showcase of Talent
The 2024 EMEA Barista Championships will bring together the finest baristas from around the region, with participants demonstrating their skills in a series of challenging tasks, including Storytelling, Latte Art, Signature Beverage alongside a brand-new mission: Store Rush. The competition is a testament to the artistry and passion that goes into crafting the perfect cup of coffee, alongside showcasing the extraordinary connections that partners (employees) create between themselves and their customers.
A Record-Breaking Field
One of the most exciting aspects of this year's competition is the unprecedented number of national winners. With 37 baristas, this year’s competition brings together more champions than ever before. This reflects the continuing power of the Barista Championships, and the importance of the skills being showcased, as it returns for the 11th year in Europe, ahead of the inaugural Global event happening in 2025.
Why This Year's Competition Will Be Unforgettable
There are several reasons to believe that the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships will be a truly memorable event. Firstly, the record-breaking number of participants ensures a high level of competition and a diverse range of expertise approaches. Secondly, the winner of the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships will represent partners across Europe, the Middle East and Africa in the first Global Barista Championships happening in mid-2025. Finally, the winner of the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships will travel to Rwanda as part of the Starbucks Origin Experience. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that takes partners to the heart of the story of coffee, experiencing the journey of the humble bean, beginning on the farms where it is grown, and building knowledge they can share with their fellow partners across the Region.
What It Takes to Be a Barista Champion
Becoming a Barista Champion requires a combination of talent, hard work, and a deep understanding of coffee. Successful competitors have a passion for their craft, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to think creatively under pressure. They must also be able to connect with their audience and judges, communicating their passion for coffee effectively.
The 2024 EMEA Barista Championships are poised to be a thrilling and unforgettable event. As the competition takes place from 25th-27th September, we can expect to see some of the most talented and innovative baristas in the world showcase their skills and push the boundaries of coffee artistry. Keep an eye on @EMEACoffeeTeam for updates around the competition livestream.
We’ve taken a little time to catch up over a coffee with some of our previous winners. From travelling the world, meeting new people and immersing yourself in new cultures over a shared passion for coffee, to guiding and nurturing the next generation of coffee masters, winning the title of Starbucks EMEA Barista Champion opens up a host of opportunities.