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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
    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 ...