Melbourne Royal has made the decision not to proceed with the Australian International Coffee Awards in 2023 as the organisation undertakes a review of the program. This is part of a broader appraisal of Melbourne Royal’s suite of Food and Beverage Awards Programs.
Established in 2013, the Awards have enjoyed strong support from the industry in terms of exhibitor participation and has steadily grown in entry numbers since its inception. The 2022 program saw 709 entries from 174 exhibitors representing 11 countries take part, after the 2021 competition was cancelled due to the pandemic.
Last year’s program provided many learnings, with the resourcing of judges, stewards and baristas in particular proving especially challenging as the hospitality industry recovered following the pandemic.
Melbourne Royal is invested in one of the only international roasting competitions in Australia. Following the review, the organisation is hopeful that the Australian International Coffee Awards will return in 2024 with the support of the industry.
For more information, visit www.melbourneroyal.com.au