Coffee News Club: Week of August 4th

Afraid of ordering from a barista? You’re not alone. Also: coffee’s possible tariff exemption, and a Philz buyout leaving some workers with nothing.
by Fionn Pooler | August 4, 2025

US Commerce Secretary Signals Possible Tariff Exemption for Coffee

On July 29, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick hinted at the possibility that coffee may be exempt from tariffs. 
by Fionn Pooler | August 4, 2025

Making Room for More Than Coffee: How Non-Caffeinated Drinks Found a Place in Cafes

Espresso still leads, but non-caffeinated drinks are showing up in coffee shops more often. Here’s how two cafes are building intentional menus that meet customers where they are.
by Haley Greene | August 1, 2025

How To Create a Summer Drink Menu That Beats the Heat—and Rising Retail Costs

From strawberry matcha to citrus-led coffee mocktails, there are many ways for cafes to leverage seasonal trends into new revenue. Partnering with a premium ingredient supplier is a good first step.
by Chloé Skye Weiser | July 30, 2025

Starbucks CEO Made Over $95M in 2024. The Average Barista Made Less Than $15,000

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol made over $95 million in 2024, 6,666 times more than the average barista.
by Fionn Pooler | July 30, 2025

Congressional Coffee Caucus Asks to Spare Coffee from Tariffs

Members of the Congressional Coffee Caucus wrote a letter requesting that coffee be exempt from current and future tariffs.
by Fionn Pooler | July 29, 2025

Coffee News Club: Week of July 28th

Starbucks’ CEO rakes in 6,666 more than what workers earn. Plus, tariffs won’t just hurt Americans, and Disneyland Starbucks workers walk off the job.
by Fionn Pooler | July 28, 2025

50% Tariff on Brazilian Coffee Could Hit Small Farmers Hardest

Trump’s proposed 50% tariff on Brazilian goods could drive down U.S. demand for coffee, hitting small farmers hardest.
by Fionn Pooler | July 28, 2025

A Coffee Pro’s Travel Hacks for Great Coffee on the Go 

For coffee lovers, travel can be a problem. It’s hard to get a good cup of coffee on most planes, trains, or in airports—but Rachel Apple has some tips.
by Amber Gibson | July 25, 2025

How Lucia Bawot’s New SANA Initiative Prioritizes Women Coffee Farmers’ Well-Being

After traveling through Colombia, Lucia Bawot launched SANA, a mental health program that offers therapy and support to women coffee farmers.
by Amber Gibson | July 23, 2025