San Diego – Qahwa World
The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has officially announced World of Coffee San Diego 2026, marking the North American debut of the globally renowned World of Coffee event series. Set to take place from April 10–12, 2026, at the San Diego Convention Center, this exhibition represents the evolution of the beloved Specialty Coffee Expo—North America’s leading coffee trade show for over three decades—into a truly global platform for connection, innovation, and growth.
A Global Expansion of Coffee’s Premier Event
Bringing together over 17,000 visitors and 650+ exhibitors from more than 90 countries, World of Coffee San Diego unites professionals from every segment of the specialty coffee value chain, from farmers and roasters to equipment manufacturers, importers, and café owners. The event will maintain the dynamic spirit of the Specialty Coffee Expo while expanding its reach to align with the international World of Coffee network, which already includes editions in Europe, the Middle East, Central America, and Asia
According to the SCA, the rebranding aims to “connect the North American coffee market with the global community” and offer exhibitors “greater visibility, growth opportunities, and access to international buyers.”
Where Coffee’s Future Happens
The exhibition will host an extensive show floor showcasing the latest in coffee technology, roasting innovations, sustainable solutions, and consumer trends. Participants can explore products across sectors including:
Green and roasted coffee
Brewing and grinding equipment
Packaging, technology, and water treatment solutions
Allied beverages, pastries, and flavorings
More than 76% of attendees are confirmed decision-makers, including roasters, producers, importers, café owners, and business leaders—making the event a premier meeting point for industry professionals
Special Features and Awards
World of Coffee San Diego will feature two major global competitions:
Best New Product Awards, celebrating innovation across coffee equipment, accessories, and beverages.
Coffee Design Awards, recognizing excellence in branding, packaging, and space design that elevate the specialty coffee experience.
These awards, open exclusively to exhibitors, provide unparalleled exposure to global media and buyers.
Roaster Village: A Showcase for Craft Roasters
A highlight of the event, the Roaster Village offers boutique roasters and green coffee importers a dedicated platform to showcase their finest coffees through tastings and cuppings. Participation is reserved for SCA members classified as small or medium businesses with annual revenues under $5 million USD—ensuring the village remains a true celebration of artisan roasting and authentic specialty coffee craftsmanship
Schedule and Activities
The three-day event begins with an Opening Reception on April 9, followed by full exhibition days from April 10–12, 2026, including lectures, workshops, and networking sessions led by industry leaders. Registered exhibitors will receive complimentary passes to sessions valued at over $1,600, access to workshops, and invitations to networking events
Booth Packages and Pricing
Standard 10×10 booth packages start at $3,350 for SCA members and $4,020 for non-members, including complimentary staff badges, guest passes, mobile app listings, and event access. Larger island booths are available up to 1,200 sq ft, with special pricing tiers for members and non-members.
Event Logistics
Venue: San Diego Convention Center, 111 Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA
Dates: April 10–12, 2026 (Move-in begins April 8; move-out ends April 13)
Registration Opens: December 2025
Hotel Reservations Open: August 2025
Organizer: Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)
About the Specialty Coffee Association
The SCA is the world’s largest coffee trade association, dedicated to fostering a global coffee community and promoting sustainability and equity throughout the coffee value chain. Its initiatives encompass research, standards, education, and events that elevate quality and innovation worldwide.
For exhibitor inquiries, contact exhibit@sca.coffee or visit worldofcoffee.org.
The post World of Coffee San Diego 2026: A New Global Chapter for the Specialty Coffee Industry appeared first on Qahwa World.
