San Diego, CA — April 2026 — The global coffee industry gathered in Southern California as the highly anticipated World of Coffee 2026 took place from April 10 to 12 at the San Diego Convention Center, marking a major milestone for the specialty coffee sector.
Organized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the event represents the first North American edition under the “World of Coffee” brand, following the rebranding of the long-running Specialty Coffee Expo. The move aligns North America’s premier coffee trade show with a globally recognized platform known for fostering innovation, collaboration, and international growth.
A Global Gathering of Coffee Innovation
World of Coffee 2026 welcomed more than 15,000 attendees from over 90 countries, bringing together roasters, producers, equipment manufacturers, and industry leaders under one roof.
The exhibition featured over 650 exhibitors showcasing the latest in coffee technology, sustainable sourcing, and product innovation, alongside more than 60 lectures and hands-on workshops.
From green coffee sourcing to roasting techniques and café business strategies, the event offered a comprehensive platform for education, networking, and trade development across the entire coffee value chain.
World-Class Competitions and Experiences
A highlight of this year’s event was the World Latte Art Championship, one of the industry’s most visually captivating competitions, where top baristas from around the globe demonstrated precision, creativity, and technical mastery.
Attendees also participated in curated cupping sessions, scientific presentations, and interactive workshops designed to deepen knowledge and elevate professional skills. Dedicated spaces such as the Coffee Business Lounge facilitated high-level networking and partnership building.
A New Era for the Coffee Industry
With a 30-year legacy behind it, the transition to World of Coffee signals a new chapter for the North American coffee market. By integrating into a global event series spanning Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the San Diego edition strengthens international connections and expands opportunities for businesses seeking to enter new markets.
Industry leaders emphasized that the rebranded event not only maintains the scale and influence of its predecessor but elevates it into a truly global hub for innovation and collaboration.
Looking Ahead
As the inaugural North American “World of Coffee” concludes, the success of the San Diego event underscores the growing importance of cross-border collaboration in the specialty coffee industry. Organizers expect future editions to further expand in scale and impact, continuing to shape trends and drive the global coffee economy forward.
