Barista Exchange is the number one networking website for working baristas, coffee enthusiasts, coffee roasters, farmers and coffee shop owners world wide. As a coffee enthusiast even, you can mingle and network with world barista champions, search for professional baristas in your area, read reviews on coffee equipment and home espresso machines, or chat with a coffee farmer in Guatemala about setting up a tour or vacation.

Rub shoulders online with a wide variety of members including:

• Multiple World and US Barista Champion Members
• Many Coffee Industry Luminaries
• Award Winning Coffee Roasters & Suppliers
• Coffee Farmers & Producers
• Members from over 65 countries
• Review and Discuss Espresso and Coffee Brewing Equipment
• Other Coffee Fanatics and Enthusiasts Worldwide

Barista Exchange was founded by Matt Milletto, Bellissimo's Consulting Director and Director of the American Barista & Coffee School.

In Matt’s own words, “My senior year of college was spent studying fine arts in Italy. During the 14 months that I lived there, I was lucky enough to also work part time in a traditional coffee bar. I learned so much from immersing myself in a cafe in another country. Coffee transcends all cultures, all races, and languages, and I truly hope that Barista Exchange will help educate and connect baristas, shop owners, coffee roasters, coffee farmers/producers and coffee enthusiasts worldwide."

New Class at ABC's — Coffee CFO: January 26-27

A financial management course for existing retailers will be held at Bellissimo’s American Barista & Coffee School January 26-27.

This two-day workshop is lead by Chris Legler, whose vast experience and knowledge of finance specifically tailored to the coffee industry, brings an unrivaled expertise to your business. Chris’ expertise includes financial management, roasting coffee, business ownership and a great understanding of business operations.

Chris has held executive positions in finance and administration, marketing, retail operations and strategic planning. He was Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Barnie’s Coffee and Tea Company and has held positions of increasing responsibility with Starbucks Coffee Company, Sony, British Petroleum, Blockbuster Entertainment and Eddie Bauer.

This two-day course will take a comprehensive look at how to optimize the overall profitability of your coffee business. Individual entrepreneurs and small chains often don't have the financial resources to hire a Chief Financial Officer, even though financial management is one of the most important components of running a successful business. Coffee CFO will give you the tools you need to manage the financial side of your business and the confidence and skills to take it to the next level.

Click here for more info.