14th Jun 2012 - 00:00
Abstract
In a first for the coffee industry, the Academy of Food and Wine Service (AFWS) has endorsed United Coffee UK & Ireland’s barista training, as part of its ‘Licence to Work’ programme, which aims to improve front of house service in the hospitality industry through entry level training.
The one-day course will educate trainees about the origins of coffee, how to produce a great shot of espresso, how to texture milk to a rich creamy consistency as well as the skills to sell more coffee. Once the training has been completed, coffee employees will be more commercially aware and know how deliver a great coffee experience to the consumer and will be awarded a 'Licence to Work' certification to prove it. Elaine Higginson, managing director, United Coffee UK & Ireland commented: "A great barista is someone who can serve great coffee and loves their customers. Our barista training is aimed at passionate coffee people who want to develop their skills so they can get the best out of their coffee machines and beans to sell more coffee." Sophie Roberts-Brown, executive director, Academy of Food and Wine Service said: "We've worked with Elaine and her team of experts to get all of their knowledge and experience into a structured training programme to develop the 'Licence to Work in Coffee Service'. This training is a must for anyone currently working as a barista that's had no, or very limited training, or anyone considering starting a career in coffee." Higginson added: "The AFWS has endorsed our training as it's as passionate as we are about raising the standard of the coffee in the cup and delivering a fast, friendly service." The training is accessible to anyone who works in coffee shops, bars, restaurants, hotel, pubs, or other outlets serving a range of espresso-based drinks, through the AFWS. The Licence to Work in Coffee Service is one of the added value benefits for members of United Coffee UK & Ireland's customer insight club for the coffee industry, named 'all about u'.