In late March 2025, the tenth edition of the Producer & Roaster Forum (PRF) took place in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. This landmark event brought together over 2,600 participants from around the globe, including producers, roasters, exporters, importers, and baristas. It featured a variety of activities such as lectures, panel discussions, workshops, coffee tastings, and several competitions designed to celebrate innovation within the coffee industry. PRF has evolved into one of the most influential gatherings for professionals in the coffee sector, fostering long-term relationships and addressing key challenges faced by the industry.
A Golden Era for Coffee Collaboration
In the heart of Central America, during a vibrant spring season, Honduras welcomed an unprecedented gathering of coffee enthusiasts at the Copantl Hotel & Convention Centre. Organized by PRF, this two-day extravaganza attracted more than 2,600 attendees from 30 countries. Among them were 1,244 producers eager to connect directly with international buyers. Keynote speeches delivered by industry leaders complemented hands-on experiences like cupping sessions and interactive workshops led by Zamorano University. Notable competitions included the Global Roasting Contest, Cold Brew Coffee Championship, Cacao Masters Cup, and the inaugural Global Cupping Championship. Winners showcased exceptional skills, with Julian Trejos of Colombia emerging victorious in multiple categories. Additionally, the forum introduced the Producer-Roaster Matchmaking program, facilitating tailored networking opportunities between growers and buyers.
The event also celebrated its commitment to sustainability and education through initiatives like PRF Seed scholarships and the Global Coffee Awards, which honored creative contributions across the supply chain. These efforts highlighted Honduras' potential as a hub for high-quality coffee production despite ongoing challenges such as rust disease and labor shortages.
Building Bridges in the Coffee World
As someone who has followed the evolution of PRF since its inception, witnessing its transformation into a global phenomenon is truly inspiring. The forum exemplifies how collaboration can drive progress within complex supply chains. By enabling direct communication between farmers and businesses, it empowers both sides to create sustainable partnerships that benefit entire communities. For instance, the introduction of the matchmaking zone addresses practical barriers often encountered during trade shows, ensuring meaningful interactions occur seamlessly. Moreover, showcasing diverse Honduran coffees not only supports local economies but also enriches global palates. Ultimately, events like PRF remind us that every cup tells a story—one worth celebrating together.