Blogs
Interest in “functionality” remains high
I recently attended the ERCM Coffee, Tea & Cocoa EPPS in Las Vegas, Nevada, where I was a presenter and moderated a panel discussion. The two-day conference featured pre-scheduled 20- and/or 10-minute meetings in which suppliers of coffee, tea and cocoa had the opportunity to present new items and promotional opportunities to buyers across a variety of retail channels.
Expanding tea-usage occasions
We New Yorkers like our seasons—yes, even winter. We embrace the cold and snow (as long as it’s not excessive, then we will complain) and the winter-related activities. Recently, Central Park held its annual ice sculpting festival and the snowstorm a couple of days prior (in which NYC received 8-10 inches) made for quite a picturesque ambiance.
Apparently, the customer Isn’t always right…
I do not typically drink flavored coffees; the flavors of the terroir are usually enough for me. However, I admit that, particularly in the cold-weather months, I often like an espresso-blended beverage–of the mocha variety–as an afternoon pick-me-up.
In memoriam, Frederick A. Lockwood, T&CTJ’s former publisher
It is with sincere sadness that I report the sudden passing of Frederick (Fred) A. Lockwood, Tea & Coffee Trade Journal’s former long-time publisher, who died on January 17, 2017.
Attempting to keep New Year’s resolutions
It’s the new year and yet some things never change—I’m still a glutton for punishment! Once again, I decided to make New Year’s Resolutions.
Keeping up the tradition of Afternoon Tea
I have loved the aroma and taste of coffee for as long as I can remember. Even as a young child I recall looking forward to the sounds of my parents’ coffeemaker brewing and the aroma of Chock full o’Nuts wafting up the stairs each morning.
There’s no such thing as too much training
I know I touched upon this in an earlier blog, but it bears repeating. My biggest pet peeve—bar none—is poor customer service. Whether it is on an airplane, dealing with a communications or utility CSR over the phone, in retail store, and of course, in a café or restaurant; I have no patience for mediocre customer service.
‘Tis the Season—to be upping tea advertising
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…” so the lyrics say. Many would disagree noting the crass commercialism that seems to overpower the so-called season of “loving and giving.”
Looking for cheer in holiday beverages
As I begin writing this piece, it’s Election Day in the US—finally the end of a contentious presidential campaign that feels as though it lasted for several years.
How well are you servicing your customers?
I’m in a bit of a tizzy, or perhaps out-of-sorts is more apropos. I’d like to say “distraught” but that might be a tad dramatic. Why? Because my favorite barista has left my coffeehouse.
It’s spring again for T&CTJ!
Spring has many meanings, one, associated with the season, signifies rebirth, that which is new. And while it may be nearing the end of September, with so much “newness” for Tea & Coffee Trade Journal, it feels like spring again!
No time to slow down this summer
So much for summer being the leisurely time of year—Tea & Coffee Trade Journal has been going nonstop since May following its acquisition by Bell Publishing.
Everything’s coming up roses
At first glance, you’ve probably noticed that T&CTJ looks different, but maybe the difference is not obvious.
From the publishing director
It gives me great pleasure to introduce myself and Bell Publishing as the new owners of Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.