Following the heats in December, six semi-finalists attended the Final. On the day, each semi-finalist was given five minutes to calibrate the grinder (with everyone started at the same point) and then serve six random drinks. The semi-final was judged by Danny Raleigh (West Country Milk), Nicola Manual (L&D Manager), Alfred Bouffard (Hot Beverage Buyer) and Sean Pittaway (Senior Barista & Coffee Specialist at UCC coffee). 

We are tremendously proud to have hosted our first ever barista competition and very encouraged to see so much passion for great coffee across the business. 

All our baristas were acknowledged for their calm demeanor throughout the competition despite the keen eyes of the judges and audience. Their passion and skill is truly admirable. 

Once everyone had completed the first round we announced the grand finalists: Barbara and Josh. 

They each then produced their signature drink for the grand final judging panel of Catherine Roe, Marcus Swift (Sales and Marketing Director at UCC coffee) and Sean Pittaway. 

Barbara created a Bakewell Latte, Josh created a Chocolate Mocha with Homemade Orange Syrup. 

Congratulations to all our finalists, many of whom had long journeys t our final at West Ham and, most importantly, our worthy winner - Josh - a true star barista!