Storm “Barista Attitude”, Ceado, and BWT water+more have been unveiled as the Specialty Coffee Association’s (SCA) Qualified Sponsors for the 2026-27 World Barista Championships, marking the start of a new two-year cycle of the competition.
The Qualified Sponsors will be a critical part of the competitions in Panama City for the 2026 World Barista Championship (WBC), and the 2027 WBC which will be held at World of Coffee Tokyo.
The Tempesta Espresso Machine from Storm “Barista Attitude” returns are the Qualified Espresso Machine sponsor for the events, while competitors will have the option of using the Ceado REV Zero or E37Z Naked grinders.
Finally, BWT water+more returns as the Qualified Water Filtration Sponsor.
The SCA says qualified equipment used on the WBC stage undergoes rigorous testing and assessment to ensure it meets desired performance and consistency standards.
SCA CEO Yannis Apostolopoulos says it is important to utilise high-quality equipment on the world stage to enable competitors to get the best out of their performances.
“As the WBC grows in scale, audience, and impact, we are focused on fostering community, expanding pathways for professional development, and inspiring the next generation of coffee leaders,” says Apostolopoulos.
“Each new WBC cycle presents an opportunity to push our industry forward, and the 2026-2027 sponsorship group represents partners who share our commitment to support activities that make specialty coffee a thriving, equitable, and sustainable endeavour for the entire value chain.
“Together with our sponsors, we are building a stronger, more connected future for specialty coffee.”
