FLTR Magazine | Specialty coffee news, guides and opinion

Why I despise the coffee-shop-turned-nightclub trend

By

A new trend is sweeping specialty coffee shops—turning them into nightclubs with DJs, loud music, and party vibes. While it might seem like a fresh way to attract crowds, this gimmick ultimately weakens coffee culture, alienates regulars, and prioritizes hype over substance. True coffee shop communities aren’t built through fleeting trends but through consistency, meaningful interactions, and a deep respect for the craft. In this article, I break down why the café-turned-club concept is a mistake and how coffee shops can foster lasting connections without selling out to the latest fad.

March 5, 2025

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Opinion

The Psychology of Snobbery

By

Andy Anderson

Snobbery is about how people express identity, status, and knowledge….

February 28, 2025

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Opinion

This is what the world of coffee can learn from Audemars Piguet

By

Andy Anderson

Luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet (AP) has mastered the art of branding through exclusivity, storytelling, and digital innovation—principles that apply to specialty coffee businesses just as much as high-end timepieces. This article explores how AP’s approach to scarcity, partnerships, content marketing, and customer engagement can inspire coffee shops, roasters, and brands to build stronger connections, increase demand, and create a more memorable experience. Whether it’s crafting an aspirational product or leveraging digital media effectively, the world of coffee has much to learn from Audemars Piguet.

February 26, 2025

News, Reviews

Profitec unveils the Ride at World of Coffee Dubai

By

Andy Anderson

Experience the future of home espresso with the Profitec Ride, unveiled globally at World of Coffee Dubai. Featuring a dual boiler system, fast heat-up mode, active and passive preinfusion, and a modular portafilter, the Ride redefines precision and performance for serious home baristas. Brewing Gadgets was chosen as the exclusive launch partner for this groundbreaking machine, solidifying its position as a leader in specialty coffee equipment. Pre-order now and be among the first to own the next evolution in espresso brewing.

February 19, 2025

News, Reviews

Bellwether’s game-changing electric roaster arrives in the Middle East

By

Andy Anderson

The coffee industry is witnessing a shift. As sustainability and…

February 18, 2025

News, Reviews

The espresso machine that changes everything

By

Andy Anderson

The Meraki Espresso Machine is here to change everything. Launched globally at World of Coffee Dubai, this all-in-one machine delivers barista-level precision with effortless automation. Featuring CoffeeSense™ bean recognition, a TIMEMORE® conical burr grinder, dual boilers, and Auto Mode, Meraki redefines what’s possible in home espresso. Discover why Brewing Gadgets was chosen as the exclusive launch partner for this groundbreaking machine.

February 17, 2025

News, Reviews

Brewing Gadgets launches the Poursteady PS2

By

Andy Anderson

Brewing Gadgets introduces the Poursteady PS2, the next evolution in automated pourover coffee. Featuring boiler-free water heating, advanced temperature control, and a compact design, the PS2 delivers precision, efficiency, and consistency for cafés, restaurants, and specialty coffee spaces. Launched at World of Coffee Dubai, this game-changing brewer is now available for pre-order.

February 15, 2025

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News, People

How PERCUP is revolutionizing the local coffee industry

By

Andy Anderson

An interview with the founder of the United Arab Emirates’ coffee industry’s latest startup.

September 20, 2024

News

Celebrating coffee talent: DaVinci Gourmet’s Barista Craft Championship

By

Andy Anderson

When you think of the craft of coffee, what comes to mind? Is it the rich aroma of freshly ground beans, the skilful pour of a barista, or perhaps the intricate dance of flavors in your cup? For DaVinci Gourmet, it’s all of this and more. Their new Barista Craft Championship is elevating the artistry and passion behind every coffee creation.

July 22, 2024

People

The obvious gap in specialty coffee training

By

Andy Anderson

I meet with a seasoned coffee professional at one of Dubai’s trendiest new restaurants where he tells me about the obvious gap in specialty coffee training today.

April 14, 2024

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