5THWAVE - The Business of Coffee and Hospitality

In today’s episode we’re speaking with one of the most innovative pioneers within the global coffee equipment market, Kees van der Westen.

Since designing his first machine in 1984, Kees has been an industry trailblazer, known for an unwavering commitment to quality, boundary-pushing design and innovation. Today Kees focuses on research and development, while the core business operations are run by his wife and three daughters.

In this conversation, Kees is joined by his daughter Yvette van der Westen to unpack the family story behind the eponymous brand and discuss recent growth opportunities in Asia. Kees also shares his design philosophy and the importance of maintaining human touch and craftsmanship in an increasingly automated world.

Credits music: "Practice What You Preach" by Russo & Co. in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective

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What is 5THWAVE - The Business of Coffee and Hospitality?

A forward-thinking interview series examining the business of progressive coffee culture.

The 5THWAVE Podcast is hosted by Jeffrey Young, Editor-in-Chief of 5THWAVE magazine and Founder of Allegra Group.

Each episode features inspiring stories, business lessons, and thought leadership from the entrepreneurs and industry experts blazing trails to success across the world of coffee.

The podcast will delve into the detail of achieving operational excellence, get to grips with green coffee sourcing and seek out the very best of global coffee culture. We’ll also examine the future of e-commerce and coffee at home, the changing face of cafés and coffee shops, and how to hone winning HR strategies – plus much more.

Get in touch and tell us what topics you'd like to hear by visiting www.worldcoffeeportal.com/5THWAVEPodcast