ABQ Starbucks baristas duke it out in the competitive coffee arena
Apr. 13—Four Albuquerque Starbucks baristas made it to the area showdown in the first North America barista championship. The competition tests a barista's skill in making signature beverages, ability to connect with customers, and knowledge of Starbucks' commitment to sustainability, according to a company spokesperson.
"This is our opportunity to celebrate how Starbucks baristas are unique and special," said Angele Busch, Starbucks spokesperson. "As competitors progress through the journey, baristas will share their personal story, connection to coffee and our values, and also how Starbucks is committed to sustainability and community."
Madelyn Fuchs-Fox, LeeAnn Gatti, Kareena Bhakta and Derryn Johnson, district champions from Albuquerque, competed in a field of nine in Thursday's area round of the barista contest, which was held at the Starbucks at Central and Columbia across from UNM. The winner was Issy Sevilla from Parker, Colorado, who moves on to the regionals in May.
The competition started with the selection of one employee, or green-apron partner, from participating stores in the U.S. and Canada. It will end when a winner is crowned in June — out of more than 15,000 participants, a company official said.
"There's so much work our baristas put into serving coffee in today's complex world — to follow quality standards, to craft beverages, to make those connections with our customers and our communities," said Ann-Marie Kurtz, learning and development manager on the global coffee education team. "Whoever is standing on the stage at the end of this championship, we want every Starbucks barista to be able to feel a sense of connection to this person and to be proud that person is their partner."
This will be the first time a winner will represent all of the U.S. and Canada, the company said.
From start to finish
The North America barista championship began on Feb. 25 with the selection of participants.
A districtwide meet took place in March. Competitors were judged by coffee tastings and scored on their knowledge of company coffee, culture and heritage, and ability to connect with customers and recommend food pairings.
Winners moved on to the area competition on Thursday , where they crafted store classics as well as presented their own signature beverage.
The regionals are set for May, after which 23 regional winners will meet in Seattle in June for the final showdown. The North America Barista Champion will be crowned and awarded a trip to Hacienda Alsacia, the Starbucks R&D farm in Costa Rica.
Judging throughout will be done by Starbucks leaders, Starbucks Coffee Masters and coffee development and quality professionals.
