Barista Academy of Southern Africa

In Search of Coffee Excellence: Thinking Globally, Acting Locally Part III: Case Study Two — McDonald’s By: Salman Khan Introduction This chapter constitutes the third instalment of the six-part comparative research series derived from the original paper titled In Search of Coffee Excellence: Thinking Globally, Acting Locally by Salman Khan. The broader study seeks to critically examine the strategic, operational, and cultural foundations underpinning the global success of s

In 2026, sustainability in coffee is no longer a narrative of certifications—it is a question of who captures value, who bears risk, and who is finally being seen . The announcement of the Specialty Coffee Association 2026 Sustainability Award winners—Coffee Circle and Bean Voyage—marks a decisive shift in how the industry defines impact: not in promises, but in measurable redistribution, structural inclusion, and long-term resilience . The Structural Paradox of Coffee Coffee

Contemporary café culture is undergoing a subtle but significant transformation. Once defined primarily by caffeine delivery and comfort rituals, cafés are increasingly becoming spaces of functional nourishment, sensory exploration, and intentional consumption . Innovations such as beetroot lattes, no- and low-caffeine beverages, and enhanced plant-based milks signal a broader shift toward health-aligned indulgence — where what a drink does matters as much as how it tastes .

The past year has been both busy and successful, with SCASA organizing outstanding competitions at both regional and national levels. We proudly sent three of our SA Champions—Stevo, Jeff, and Retha—to international events in their respective categories. Their achievements have earned South Africa recognition as one of the most distinguished emerging chapters globally. Kudos to Stevo, Jeff, and Retha for reaching this level on the world stage. In terms of business operations