San Juan, Costa Rica – Set against the picturesque backdrop of Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks Coffee Company recently hosted the highly anticipated 2024 Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Barista Championship. Celebrating its ninth year, the competition showcases the skill, artistry, and dedication of Starbucks green apron partners (employees), who elevate every cup of coffee served worldwide.
After four days of intense competition, Luis from Puerto Rico emerged as the 2024 champion, impressing the judges with his expertise. Finalists Juls from Mexico and Claudio from Peru also demonstrated exceptional barista skills, blending technical prowess with creativity and reflecting the diverse coffee cultures of their respective countries.
The championship, held at Starbucks’ global agronomy headquarters, Hacienda Alsacia, located on the slopes of Costa Rica’s Poás volcano, was more than a contest. It marked the culmination of months of preparation and a regional journey that began earlier this year. Baristas from 22 LAC markets competed in local heats and national finals, with the goal of representing their countries at the prestigious regional stage in Costa Rica.
Since its inception in 2015, the LAC Barista Championship has provided a platform for over 170 national champions to showcase their talent and passion for coffee. “Our partners’ passion for coffee is at the core of every Starbucks beverage,” said Ricardo Arias-Nath, senior vice president and president of Starbucks Latin America and the Caribbean. “The LAC Barista Championship celebrates their curiosity and creativity, pushing the boundaries of their craft and developing signature drinks that blend local traditions with Starbucks’ iconic offerings.”
Luis, visibly moved by his victory, expressed his gratitude to Puerto Rico and his fellow partners. “I’m deeply grateful to Puerto Rico, to everyone who nurtured my love for coffee, and to all my green apron partners who made this moment possible,” he said. “The experience at Hacienda Alsacia opened my eyes to the incredible opportunities at Starbucks and the potential we have to make a difference from our stores.”
A Culture of Growth and Passion at Starbucks
Starbucks has been a significant presence in Latin America and the Caribbean for over two decades, offering partners a supportive and enriching environment to thrive. With a commitment to their health, well-being, and professional development, Starbucks fosters a culture where partners can pursue meaningful careers while embracing their passion for coffee.
“Starbucks’ success is driven by the dedication of our partners, who bring warmth and authenticity to every connection they make,” Arias-Nath noted. “Our inclusive culture and welcoming teams transform Starbucks into more than just a workplace—it becomes a community where partners feel valued and empowered.”
Starbucks further invests in its partners’ growth through industry-leading benefits, training programs like the Coffee Master certification, and opportunities to participate in events like the LAC Barista Championship. This commitment ensures partners can deepen their knowledge of coffee, cultivating both personal and professional success.
Hacienda Alsacia: A Hub for Coffee Innovation
Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks’ first coffee farm and global Research and Development center in Latin America, played a key role in hosting this year’s championship. The 240-hectare farm in Costa Rica allows partners to witness firsthand the care and dedication that goes into growing the coffee beans they serve daily.
As part of Starbucks’ ongoing commitment to sustainability, Hacienda Alsacia serves as the centerpiece of an expanded network aimed at revolutionizing coffee farming. In October 2024, Starbucks announced the addition of new farms in Guatemala and Costa Rica, focusing on hybrid coffee varieties, advanced farming techniques, and addressing climate change challenges.
Looking ahead, Starbucks plans to further invest in coffee innovation in Africa and Asia. These new farms will not only introduce cutting-edge farming practices but also empower local farmers with the knowledge and resources needed to succeed in an evolving climate. Ultimately, this initiative aims to benefit coffee-growing communities worldwide, ensuring a sustainable future for the industry.
Starbucks continues to position itself at the forefront of coffee sustainability, reinforcing its role as a global leader in both innovation and social responsibility.