Remy Poirot and Erica Lamenter, from BaxterStorey’s AXA headquarters contract in Brussels, took home first and second place respectively after going head-to-head against one other finalist to showcase their “creativity and in-depth coffee knowledge.”
Tasked to serve four espressos, four milk beverages and four signature drinks in 15 minutes, contestants also had to explain their choice of coffee and demonstrate their understanding of their espresso machine to judges.
Poirot said: “I am thrilled to have won - it was an adrenaline-fuelled day and very exciting. I developed a simple but effective signature drink, adding unrefined coconut sugar to complement the tropical flavours of the espresso and tangerine juice to bring creaminess to the drink.
“I’m really proud to be able to represent Belgium in the World Barista Championship, and can’t wait to compete in Amsterdam in June."
National barista trainer at BaxterStorey, Jana Slamova, added: “Both Remy and Erica are first-time competitors in the national championships, and we are so proud of their incredible achievements in this final.
“They worked very hard to prepare for the event and their performance has highlighted the extremely talented professionals they are.”