Melbourne has firmly cemented its title of coffee capital of Australia with the Melbourne International Coffee Expo hitting the city again this year, from May 15 – 18. Following on from the outstanding success that was the 2013 event, MICE 2014 showcases the world’s best baristas, a vast array of coffee roasters and one of the world’s biggest and most diverse coffee exhibitions.
Walking into the main exhibition hall is something to behold. All the senses are assaulted almost immediately as the fine aromas of roasting beans drifts in the air, and visually one doesn’t really know where to look first.
The main display is nothing short of spectacular, both in size and inspirational design. With over 150 exhibitors spread out over two pavilions, there is no shortage of samples, testers and tasters to indulge in.
Judging a ‘most impressive display’ award would be a near impossibility, as exhibitors on show really have outdone themselves. Ducale have kitted themselves out with a full size semi-trailer trade display and the team at Coffee Machine Technologies are sporting a double story set up with a special upstairs VIP room…and this is just the beginning.
World class barista’s will also be on show over the four days, with the event playing host to the World Latte Art, World Coffee in Good Spirits and World Cup Tasters Championships. The events, held in conjunction with the AASCA coffee championships, will run over the Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Trade visitors will been treated to a thoroughly enthralling two day trade event on Thursday and Friday and the expo is open to the public from 10am – 5.30pm on Saturday and 10am – 4pm on Sunday. Entry is only $25 per person.
If you have even the slightest interest in café and coffee culture, then MICE2014 is where you need to be at some stage over the coming weekend. This superb event is simply not to be missed.
Event: Melbourne International Coffee Expo
Where: Melbourne Showgrounds – map here
Times: Thursday 10 – 5.30pm (trade visitors only)
Friday 10am – 5.30pm (trade visitors only)
Saturday 10am – 5.30pm (open to the public)
Sunday 10am – 4pm (open to the public)
Cost: Trade visitors on Thursday and Friday $60
General public on Saturday and Sunday $25