Since its inception in 1997, the ICO has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality and sustainability of coffee production worldwide. The partnership between the ICO, the International Trade Centre/World Trade Organization, and the Common Fund for Commodities led to the creation of The Gourmet Project, a pioneering effort to elevate coffee quality and prices. This initiative laid the foundation for the Cup of Excellence, which has since become a cornerstone of the specialty coffee industry.

The Cup of Excellence, born out of the collaborative efforts supported by the ICO, has transformed the coffee landscape over the past 25 years. Through transparent competitions and rigorous evaluation processes, the Cup of Excellence has not only unearthed exceptional coffees but also empowered farmers and elevated standards of coffee production worldwide.

During the Specialty Coffee Expo, ICO representatives will participate in a series of events dedicated to commemorating the Cup of Excellence’s legacy and envisioning its future:

• Panel Discussions: ICO experts will contribute to panel discussions exploring the impact of the Cup of Excellence on specialty coffee roasters, farmers, and the broader coffee community.
• Farmers’ Stories: Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from farmers who have triumphed in the Cup of Excellence competitions, sharing their personal journeys and the transformative effects of the program on their livelihoods.
• Roasters’ Strategies: ICO representatives will join discussions on how successful roasters leverage Cup of Excellence coffees to attract and retain customers, emphasizing the economic benefits of investing in quality.

As the coffee industry continues to evolve, the ICO remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting excellence and sustainability. Through initiatives like the Cup of Excellence, the ICO aims to empower coffee producers, foster innovation, and ensure a prosperous future for the global coffee community.

The Expo will culminate in a grand finale, where attendees can participate in a draw by collecting stamps on their official Cup of Excellence fun passports. Prizes will be awarded to lucky winners, adding an exciting conclusion to the celebration of 25 years of coffee excellence.

The Specialty Coffee Expo promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together industry leaders, coffee enthusiasts, and stakeholders to honor the legacy of the Cup of Excellence and chart a course for the future of specialty coffee. Join the ICO and fellow coffee aficionados in celebrating a quarter-century of unparalleled quality and innovation in the world of coffee.