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C Photo / Criteria Coffee

as a knowledge-sharing platform. The facility hosts var-
ious events, cuppings, and workshops, connecting coffee
farmers, green bean importers, roasters, and cafe owners.
“I’ve hosted quite a few coffee events. We host events
for visiting coffee farmers. We’ve had coffee producers
come through and give talks. So it seems to be a bit of a
meeting place.” Craig said. This is a testament to how
co-roasting spaces bring people together, fostering an
environment where coffee professionals can exchange
ideas, techniques, and insights. Whether you’re a sea-
soned coffee roaster or a newcomer to the industry, these
spaces encourage a culture of continuous learning. More
importantly, Craig noted the importance of ensuring that
everyone in the community contributes positively to
maintain the cooperative spirit of the space.
In addition to his work at Criteria Coffee, Craig also
outlined his involvement in the broader coffee industry.
He shared his experiences in the Australian coffee cham-
“The quality of pionships, his participation as a sensory judge in inter-
national coffee competitions, and his role as a green
coffee being roast- coffee grader and instructor. Craig’s journey in the
coffee industry showcases the transformative power of
ed in our space from communal spaces like Criteria Coffee in fostering a strong
and supportive coffee community, encouraging knowl-
our members is im- edge sharing, and contributing to the evolving landscape
of specialty coffee.
pressive.”

Craig Simon, Founder of Criteria Coffee,
three times Australian Barista Champion,
WBC Finalist 2014, and Q Grade Instructor.
Craig’s approach allows coffee enthusiasts to use discussed his vision for Criteria Coffee, which centers on
Roasting Together the roasting equipment and facilities as needed. This fostering a supportive community where knowledge sharing
means that whether you’re a café owner, an aspiring thrives, “I really want them to understand the process so
Co-roasting spaces have emerged as vital hubs with- coffee entrepreneur, or just a coffee lover who wants to that they are autonomous when they roast again, experiment,
in the specialty coffee industry. These spaces serve a experiment, you can access state-of-the-art equipment and develop their own style. Plus, I really enjoy seeing how
specific purpose: to provide coffee professionals with without a hefty investment. Resource sharing enhances much enjoyment everyone is getting out of it. How good
the facilities, equipment, and community they need to efficiency, reduces costs, and encourages collaboration, they are at roasting. It’s really rewarding for me to come in
excel in their craft. By offering shared roasting equipment making it a win-win situation for all involved. there and see the community thriving.” Craig said.
and a collaborative atmosphere, co-roasting spaces are Co-roasting spaces also inspire innovation in the The sense of community has evolved over the years,
revolutionizing the way coffee is roasted. coffee industry. As Craig emphasizes, “The quality of coffee reflecting the changing dynamics of the coffee industry.
In a recent interview, Craig Simon, the founder being roasted in our space from our members is impressive.” Craig emphasized that when he started in coffee in the
of Criteria Coffee, a communal roasting space in Mel- The collaborative environment encourages coffee profes- early 2000s, there were few resources available for learning
bourne, Australia, shared insights into his journey sionals to push the boundaries of their craft. This innovation the art of coffee roasting . The industry then predominant-
within the coffee industry and how co-roasting is extends to new roast profiles, creative blends, and explor- ly focused on espresso blends and milk-based beverages.
fostering a sense of community. With over two de- ing unique coffee origins. The diverse community within However, in more recent times, there has been a significant
cades of experience, Craig’s story is marked by a these spaces ensures that the coffee industry continues to shift towards single-origin coffees and specialty coffee ex-
transition from a career in music to becoming a prom- evolve and excite coffee enthusiasts worldwide. periences. Criteria Coffee has played a vital role in facili-
inent figure in the Melbourne coffee scene. He worked Established in October 2018, Criteria Coffee serves tating this transformation by providing a space for coffee
for Veneziano Coffee Roasters in Melbourne for 12 as a hub for coffee professionals and enthusiasts. The busi- aficionados to learn, collaborate, and experiment.
years, where he gained extensive experience in coffee ness charges customers based on the time they spend Throughout our interview, Craig highlighted the
roasting and related aspects. roasting, providing access to equipment and facilities. Craig community-building aspect of Criteria Coffee and its role

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