June 10-14, 2005
Canada’s largest city and business centre will play host to retail, foodservice, chain store, institutional and hospitality buyers and new entrepreneurs from across North America as they come to see and sample the latest products from over 70 exhibiting companies from across Canada and around the world.
This year’s attendees will be drawn to the action on the trade show floor at the third annual Canadian National Barista Championship where the country’s best compete for the Canadian title and a trip to the World Barista Championships in Berne, Switzerland in 2006. We thank this year’s Platinum Sponsor Krups for hosting the event. An “olympic games” for those actively practicing the craft of espresso preparation, the world event showcases the talents of top representatives from several countries.
To satisfy the thirst for knowledge in the beverage business, an exciting line-up of over 20 information packed seminars and workshops presented by the industry’s leading experts will cover everything from how to open a retail shop to creating a profitable menu with the hottest new beverages. Hands on barista training, cupping and tasting workshops offer attendees the best value for their limited professional development dollar. Insightful industry updates will be offered at the Coffee Association of Canada and Tea Council and great networking opportunities await all at the Monday evening welcome reception at the Strip House/Filet of Sole Restaurant courtesy of Cappuccine, Kerry Foodservice, Morala Trading and Calories desserts.
For the first time in Eastern Canada, all day start-up classes will be held on Saturday June 11 led by the industry’s top professionals offering newcomers to the trade an invaluable learning forum for how to open their own businesses.
There are some great prizes to be had. In the smoothies and blender workshop on Tuesday, Hamilton Beach will give-away a blender to one of the participants. This year’s platinum show sponsor, Krups will be having a draw each hour of the trade show for Krups FME4 coffee machine (Value = $150) for information visit: http://www.krups.ca Be sure to visit the Krups ballot box on the trade show floor to fill out an entry form.
June is the perfect month to visit Expo 2005. I invite you to take in all this great city has to offer including its many retail beverage establishments at this year’ tours of coffee and tea hot spots to be held on Sunday, June 12. You will discover a thriving culture of espresso bars and teashops — as well as the city’s wonderful scenery.
There is much to see and do at this year’s Expo. Thanks to our many exhibitors and sponsors who help make it all possible, and to you our visitors. I am sure that it will be a great experience for everyone who attends. Hope you have a great show!