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Connections Lounge

Connections Lounge

Connect with Community.
Recharge.
Take Space to Reflect and Grow.

Located on the show floor, the Connections Lounge is a versatile, welcoming space designed to foster community and conversation. Whether you're stopping in for a casual chat, attending a hosted meetup, recharging your phone at Monin's charging stations, or just taking a breather with a beverage, this is your place to feel grounded and connected.

The Lounge features daily hosted programming, open seating, and creative engagement opportunities - all designed to support baristas, café owners, and coffee professionals at every career stage.

Enjoy a beverage from Oatly while you recharge in this chill show floor destination.

The Connections Lounge is Presented by:

 

        Oatly Logo     

What to Expect

Hosted Meetups – Daily 2-hour sessions by Raise the Bar, offering mentorship, dialogue, and creative reflection.

Podcast & Content Corner – A place to capture stories, share insights, or take part in post-show content creation.

Recharge Stations – Take a break and power up - your devices and yourself.

Open Access Time – Use the space however you need: meet with new contacts, grab a seat, or simply breathe.

Plan Your Participation

Join a Hosted Meetup – Stop by during Raise the Bar’s daily 2-hour community experience:

  • Speed Mentorship & Peer Conversations – Rotate through quick, meaningful chats on topics like pay, burnout, and career growth.

  • Community Reflections – Participate in a guided group dialogue around support, success, and the future of the industry.

  • Story Corner – Pop into the video booth and share your journey - opt-in to be part of a post-show recap!

  • Quiet Craft Corner – Take a moment for yourself.

Stay as Long as You’d Like – Whether you’re diving deep into conversation or just pausing between sessions, the Lounge is open for you.

Why it Matters

Community-First Programming – Thoughtfully curated to center working coffee professionals and early-career attendees.

Flexible, Inclusive Space – Designed for listening, sharing, creating, and resting.

Presented by Industry Leaders – With Oatly providing beverages and Monin supporting recharge stations, you’re in good company.


 

CONNECTIONS LOUNGE SCHEDULE

The Connections Lounge is yours to enjoy throughout the day - grab a seat, recharge, or meet someone new.
Below are the hosted sessions happening at scheduled times - drop in anytime that works for you!

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March 08, 2026
    Connections Lounge
    Connect. Reflect. Grow. Drop in, grab a seat, and connect with fellow coffee professionals in a space designed for real conversations, honest reflections, and meaningful support. Whether you're a bari ...
March 09, 2026
    Connections Lounge
    Textures, layers, and inclusions are leading the charge in signature drinks. From cold foams and cream tops to purees and playful inclusions, texture is redefining how drinks look, feel, and taste acr ...
    Connections Lounge
    Connect. Reflect. Grow. Drop in, grab a seat, and connect with fellow coffee professionals in a space designed for real conversations, honest reflections, and meaningful support. Whether you're a bari ...
March 10, 2026
    Connections Lounge
    Connect. Reflect. Grow. Drop in, grab a seat, and connect with fellow coffee professionals in a space designed for real conversations, honest reflections, and meaningful support. Whether you're a bari ...
    Connections Lounge
    If you've come to Coffee Fest because you're looking to get into the business or really dig into how to open a coffee shop all your own, this is an essential class. Knowing what steps to take can seem ...