Greetings from the CTW Trade Show
I recently attended an industry trade show in Grapevine, Texas. The show is called CTW and is devoted to coffee, tea and water. It is a smaller focused event, when compared with the annual NAMA show which is more focused on the vending industry. CTW offers many hours of education seminars and 5 hours of floor exhibit time.
Last year the show was in Nashville, TN. There were significantly more exhibitors and attendees last year. Perhaps this was due to the location. I attend these trade shows for three reasons: 1) to learn from others in the industry and 2) walk the trade show floor to learn about new products and 3) re-connect with our suppliers and old friends. I always have an agenda of new items I’m specifically looking for.
There were few new products unveiled at this year’s show. Pods and bean-to-cup brewers continue to build momentum in the office coffee sector. Now that pod brewers are reliable, the floodgates have opened and roasters who offer pods are enjoying their success. When we see a moderately priced automatic pod brewer, pod usage will significantly increase and take market share. Bean-to-cup brewers are an excellent option for larger offices that can accommodate the necessary height and the daily maintenance required. Keurig is still a good option for many offices and there are now effective k-cup recycling options. Many offices are now offering espresso as an afternoon pick-me-up. There are excellent choices in espresso machines, even for small offices.
With respect to water options, coolers that attach to the building’s water supply dominate the office environment. Bottle coolers and 5 gallon jugs are still popular in offices with no water source or where the town’s water is deemed problematic. Look for new products that combine a bottle cooler and a pod brewer and a bottle cooler and a Lavit beverage system. The Lavit beverge system combines a high end water cooler (still and sparkling water) and other beverages. Now the Lavit can tie into the building’s water supply or easily use 5 gallon jugs. Any office buying a few cases of soda during the month should look closely at the Lavit system.
The last change in the industry I will discuss today is the movement to eco-friendly products. Hot cups, plates and cutlery are now very close in price to their non eco-friendly counterparts. The time is right for corporate America to switch over to these products. We are taking the lead on this movement and have narrowed the price gap to virtually nothing.
If you are not yet a Galaxie Coffee customer, we would like the opportunity to change that. We are one of the leading coffee service providers in the greater New York area. We can supply your office, warehouse, store, or industrial facility with the finest hot and cold beverages and break room supplies. Our inventory of coffee and water equipment includes all the latest technologies to ensure every break room experience is a positive one.