The dedicated space, called ‘Campus’, will offer Union’s own training courses and SCAE-certified courses for baristas, alongside roasting classes to coffee shop owners and small chains to help them improve their understanding of coffee roasting.
The facility also includes a fully equipped roasting space for hire for independent coffee shops and small chains who want to roast their own coffee.
Geoff Cliff, Development Manager at Union Hand-Roasted Coffee said of the Barista Training programs and facility: “We want the end customer to enjoy our beautiful coffee presented at its finest, so we place great value on barista training and coffee education as an essential stage in the process.
“This is why we have invested in expanding our headquarters to include a dedicated Education Centre, including an SCAE Training Room and Cupping Lab, all designed to give the best facilities in which to learn about all sectors of the coffee industry.”
Dave Jameson, General Manager of Campus said of the new roasting facility: “Baristas and café owners are becoming ever more excited by the details of the sourcing and production of their coffee, and in many cases are looking to become more involved as well. We want to inspire a new generation of roasters by sharing some of the knowledge we have built up.
“The new roasting courses and facility for hire are designed for those customers interested in creating their own coffee, but who don’t feel ready, able or confident enough to invest in their own roastery. Through this new facility, and our Union Direct Trade sourcing ability, they can access some of the best green coffee available, and serve it with their own style, developing their own signature blends and roasts and take that extra ownership step in their supply chain.”
The courses available for baristas include theory and practical training covering brewing techniques and roasting, cupping training and SCAE Diploma Modules.
Meanwhile coffee shops can benefit from access to Union Hand-Roasted Coffee sourcing capability, roastery hire, packing facilities and materials, and the opportunity to develop their own signature blends and secure exclusive microlots.