MICE2018 wrap
For coffee lovers in Melbourne from 22 to 24 March, there was only one word on their minds: MICE.
The Melbourne International Coffee Expo, or MICE as it’s better identified, opened its doors to more than 120 exhibitors who made the Show Grounds home for the three-day event.
“This was our most successful MICE following the year we hosted the World Barista Championship (WBC),” says Show Director Simon Coburn. “We welcomed a total of 11,043 visitors, which is an increase from the 9,646 visitors in 2017. It just goes to show that rain or shine, the Australian and international coffee community identifies MICE as a key event in the industry calendar. We’re proud that the event embraces an environment where passion is our business.”
Half an hour before crowds were allowed in, visitors created a long line in the foyer, waiting to pounce as if at traditional Boxing Day sales. Who could blame them? There was much to see, coffee to taste, and people to meet.
It all started with a morning coffee as the symphony of grinders and beans pouring into hoppers filled the Big Tent, the Grand Pavilion. In the distance, the acoustics of the Australian Specialty Coffee Association (ASCA) Barista Championship could be heard as day one
