News

The King of Apples and Oranges: Specialty Coffee's Comparison to the Wine Industry

Tom Maegdlin4/19/23

Specialty coffee and wine are two beverages that have long been the focus of connoisseurs around the world. Both share a rich history and cultural significance, and both (at least is suggested) require extensive knowledge and experience to fully appreciate their nuances. I have found that principle to be elitist...

Shrinkflation Brews Trouble in the Specialty Coffee Industry

Tom Maegdlin4/18/23

"As the global economy grapples with fluctuating inflation rates, the specialty coffee industry is also experiencing its own form of this phenomenon—shrinkflation. This term refers to the practice of reducing the quantity or quality of a product while maintaining or increasing its price, a sneaky way for companies to offset rising costs without raising eyebrows."

Political Risk: Yet Another Potential Threat to Your Morning Coffee

Tom Maegdlin3/ 8/23

Coffee is a major global commodity, with an estimated 164 million bags produced in 2021. However, the price of coffee is subject to a wide range of political risks that can have a significant impact on the supply and demand of this beloved beverage. As many of you are acutely aware,...

Coffee on the American Frontier

Tom Maegdlin3/ 7/23

Coffee has become a ubiquitous part of American culture, and it's hard to imagine starting the day without a cup of joe. However, coffee wasn't always the beverage of choice for Americans, and its popularity grew during the American frontier period. The American frontier period, which began in the late...

Innovative Farming Practices in Coffee Cultivation

Tom Maegdlin3/ 6/23

Coffee is one of the world's most popular beverages, and for many farmers, it's also a major source of income. However, traditional coffee farming methods often involve intensive use of pesticides, fertilizers, and water, which can have negative impacts on the environment and human health. In recent years, innovative farming...