More than 10,000 attend the Melbourne International Coffee Expo

The Melbourne International Coffee Expo drew in more than 10,000 people over four days. There were more than 150 exhibitors from all over the world demonstrating the best coffee and coffee technology on offer. Delegates traveled from around the world to visit the Expo, reinforcing Melbourne’s place as one of the world’s top coffee destinations. The Expo was also host to the World Barista Championships and the World Brewers Cup. The Barista Championships brought together contestants from 53 countries for four days of competition, culminating in a final round that played to a packed stadium of more than 800 people, with the live web stream transmitting around the globe. Both competitions were won by representatives of the United States. Peter Licata from Kansas City was crowned World Barista Champion 2013. Melbourne’s own Matt Perger took second place for the hosts. The World Brewers Cup was won by Erin McCarthy from Counter Culture Coffee in New York City, USA. Champions from 19 countries competed in the finals, whch were held over three days. “This event has exceeded all expectations,” said Show Director, Clint Hendry. “Not only have we represented the Australian industry brilliantly, we have drawn the attention of the global coffee industry in a way that will leave an impression for many years to come.”