BaxterStorey to compete in semi-final of UK Barista Championship
Three BaxterStorey baristas have earned a place in the semi-final of next month's UK Barista Championship.
Don Altizo (pictured), Jana Slamova and Keiran Carney all came within the top 12 at regional heats earlier this month and will now compete on 9 April.
BaxterStorey is the only foodservice firm to have made it to this stage of the competition.
Tim Sturk, head of coffee training and development at BaxterStorey said: "This is the fourth consecutive year BaxterStorey has reached the semi-finals, testament to our commitment to both quality coffee and staff development. In fact, Jana is currently ranked number one female barista in the UK following her success as last year's competition."
The regional finals required competitors to demonstrate their knowledge of coffee, presentation and preparation skills and all-round ability in a series of challenging rounds. Contestants were asked to make four espresso, four milk-based drinks and four signature drinks. The BaxterStorey competitors impressed the judges with distinctive flavours including Afghanistan red raisins, natural cocoa butter and white mulberry to create their signature drinks.
Sturk added: "We are dedicated to supporting our team at the highest level and our unique Barista Academy provides them with a thorough understanding of the history of coffee, the coffee bean journey, the importance of the quality of milk, machine maintenance, recipe management and customer service. Ultimately, it gives them the skills needed to create an outstanding cup of coffee and it is this expertise, along with their passion for coffee that is shining through at this year's Barista Championships."
Following the semi-final, the six top scorers will go on to compete in the final of the UK Barista Championship on 10 April. The winner will represent the UK at the World Barista Championships in June.
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