Blogs

BMBC – A celebration of coffee

The BM Barista Championship (BMBC) is one of the most exciting and inspiring events we host each year. It’s more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of craft, community, and the incredible talent we have within BM.

The journey begins

The journey begins months before the finals, as we visit sites across the business to connect with talented and aspiring baristas. It’s during this time that we invite team members to step forward, take part, and share their passion for coffee. One of the most exciting parts of the process is when participants are introduced to our coffee roasters and given the opportunity to choose a coffee that speaks to them – one that they feel best represents their personality and style.

From there, the momentum builds through the heats, where we witness just how far each barista has come. Their growth, confidence, and creativity truly shine. And it’s not just about brewing the perfect cup – it’s about storytelling, sharing journeys, and expressing individuality through signature drinks and thoughtful presentation.

A showcase of talent and creativity

The latest edition of BMBC proved once again why it has become a beloved cornerstone in our coffee community. This year, the finalists showcased not just their technical prowess but also their creativity, culture, and passion for coffee. Each competitor came from a different corner of the map and brought with them a unique story to tell through their brews.

Sustainability and innovation in every cup

Some embraced sustainability, creating signature drinks using reused coffee pucks, tomato infusions, and even avocado. Others took us on a journey across continents, following the global path of coffee’s evolution. One finalist paid homage to the very roots of coffee, weaving in the history and the people who first cultivated this remarkable bean. From personal storytelling to experimental flavour pairings like favourite ice cream inspirations, this year’s competition truly pushed boundaries.

A platform for growth and passion

BMBC isn’t just for seasoned baristas. For many newcomers, it’s a leap into the unknown—a chance to challenge themselves, grow, and find their voice within the coffee world. And for returning competitors, BMBC offers a platform to experiment, refine their craft, and reconnect with what drew them to coffee in the first place. At its core, BMBC is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of community, innovation, and passion.

Building connections through coffee

BMBC is also about connection. It brings together like-minded individuals from across the business who all share one thing in common – a love for coffee. The camaraderie, support, and team spirit are what make this event so special. Watching each participant take the stage, knowing the dedication and courage it took to get there, is genuinely moving.

Signature drinks worth showcasing

This year, we saw some outstanding signature drinks – ones I’d love to see featured as guest specials in our locations. It’s a great way to share the innovation and creativity we’re cultivating within BM.

Celebrating the winners

Winning the title of BM Barista Champion is no small feat. Alongside the recognition, the top three finalists also walk away with some incredible prizes, thanks to the generous support of our suppliers. This year, rewards included SCA classes from Oatly, an exclusive trip to the Victoria Arduino factory in Italy, and state-of-the-art coffee machines and equipment from Bella Barista and Notes.

The Future of BMBC

The BM Barista Championship is not just a highlight of the year – it’s a platform that sparks further conversation, development, and even aspirations towards national competitions. It’s proof of the passion and potential we have across our teams.

I’m proud to be part of BMBC and can’t wait to see where it takes us next. Here’s to even more coffee, creativity, and celebration in the next chapter! Many congratulations to all competitors and especially our winner, Jason.