RENOWNED Arabica global baristas Kobe Lee and Allen Chua are impressed by the exceptional talent and professionalism displayed by Filipino baristas. During a recent visit to the Philippines in July for the opening of % Arabica’s newest branch at Mitsukoshi BGC in Taguig, these global baristas shared their genuine admiration for the dedication of Filipino baristas in making quality coffee. “I can see their patience in perfecting their craft. I also appreciate that they’re very knowledgeable when it comes to coffee and yet they’re still willing to learn new things no matter how old they are, regardless of their position”, Chua said.
Lee concurred with Chua’s sentiments, highlighting the pivotal role of passion in becoming a world-class barista, “If you have passion, you can do everything.” Lee also underlined the integration of the Japanese philosophy of ‘Kaizen,’ emphasizing continuous improvement in their approach, “Like our founder would always say: Kaizen your daily. In everything you do, apply the concept of Kaizen. For example, you’re doing your 1000th cup but it’s the customer’s first cup. If your 1000th cup is not as good as your other cups, the customer trying it for the first time will not come back. So improve and better yourself daily so you can achieve anything”, Lee said.
In line with its culture of excellence, Arabica Philippines is committed to enhancing the talent and skills of its Filipino baristas to become perpetually competitive on the global stage. The company is providing local baristas with the necessary training, capacities, skill sets, and opportunities to become the best in their craft.
Arabica Philippines and The Khoffee Group Chief Operations Officer Koko Tamura said the global coffee brand has always admired Filipino baristas because of their eagerness to learn and naturally warm and friendly personality. Tamura adds Arabica wants to continuously develop the Filipino baristas’ potential to become global coffee ambassadors by supporting and encouraging them to join international competitions, “The company’s motto, ‘See the world through coffee’, reflects our desire for our baristas to explore the world and gain international exposure. Arabica’s training program aims to empower Filipino baristas by equipping them with the skills and knowledge, helping them grow and explore wider opportunities”, Tamura said.
Given Arabica’s devotion to excellence, Filipino baristas undergo a month-long rigorous training process. Local baristas have regular evaluations to maintain excellent performance standards. They also go through an auditing process even after store operations begin, “The local baristas in our roster right now is our pioneer team. If they want to grow and climb up the ladder to become future supervisors, store managers, and champion baristas, we will support them every step of the way. Kenneth Shoji, the founder of Arabica, is a firm believer of investing in people and empowering them to reach their full potential,” Tamura said.
An embodiment of this is Arabica’s current Filipino Head Barista, Lawrenze Marcella. Arabica has been supportive of Marcella’s training even sending him abroad to train and learn the Arabica way, the most recent one in Malaysia. “As a global Japanese brand, Arabica’s training has really helped me pay attention to details and aim for high quality standards. Every cup of coffee we make is made with enthusiasm, passion, and consistency. This has become my edge and advantage at the global and international level,” Marcella shared. Tamura said Marcella’s experience is the blueprint they’ve always wanted for Filipino baristas.
Arabica’s dedication to developing Filipino baristas’ skills and providing them with opportunities to compete globally reflects its commitment to providing quality coffee and excellent customer service. The company’s focus on local baristas’ growth and development sets it apart from its competitors and reinforces its position as a global coffee brand with a local heart.
