Companies are turning to automation as a tool to fight back against industrial action. In coffee, that role could well be played by robot baristas—in fact, it sort of already has.
Coffee companies are going all in on automation. We’re told that it improves efficiency, cuts costs, and yields a better product. But what does it mean for the baristas whose labour these automations displace?
An unforeseen complication in the EU’s impending deforestation regulation could lead to tons of coffee being “dumped”.
The usually incredibly busy Red Cup Day, when Starbucks hands out free holiday-themed cups, was “far below the levels” of previous years. Possible reasons include unionized workers going on strike for the second Red Cup Rebellion in a row, an uninspired lineup of festive beverages, or perhaps the fact that nobody really needs another reusable cup.
Millennials love their coffee, and despite the cost of living crisis the no-longer-that-young generation are still willing to spend $7 per day on a latte simply “because it brings them joy.” As they should. (I like how I write this as if I’m not a millennial.)
Two union contract agreements in one week! Workers at Philadelphia-based Elixr Coffee, and Sunergos Coffee in Louisville, Kentucky, came to tentative contract agreements with their respective companies.
I'm the creator and writer of The Pourover. Based in Scotland, I have over a decade of experience in the specialty coffee industry as a barista, roaster, and writer. Ask me about coffeewashing.
