In the last few years, Singapore has been experiencing an incredible surge in coffee consumption. In 2023 alone, 105,000 60 kilogramme bags of coffee were consumed in the island state, proving just how much Singaporeans have developed a love for this beverage. This rise in coffee consumption is not just a reflection of global coffee consumption trends, but a testament to Singapore’s ever-evolving coffee culture. From the humble neighbourhood kopitiam offerings to sophisticated beverages served at upscale coffee shops, the appeal of coffee in Singapore spans diverse demographics and preferences. This article will explore factors contributing to coffee’s popularity, the growing demand for baristas, learning opportunities for baristas, and what the future of coffee looks like in Singapore.
The Rise of Coffee Culture in Singapore
A few factors have contributed to Singapore’s burgeoning coffee culture. Dating back to the 19th century, Chinese cooks in Singapore had to accommodate the needs of the European population on the island, specifically their love for coffee. To highlight the rich flavours of Robusta beans, these cooks developed a distinctive brewing method, incorporating ingredients like butter, lard, or sugar. Over the years, Singapore has embraced the global trend of coffee consumption with locals developing an affinity for speciality coffee brews and artisanal coffee. This shift is influenced by the spread of Western coffee culture and the rise of a growing middle class with disposable income, eager to explore new and unique coffee experiences.
Additionally, Singapore’s government has played a vital role in developing the island’s coffee culture. Events such as the Singapore Coffee Festival and extensive support for local coffee businesses have significantly contributed to this growth. These efforts have not only promoted local coffee businesses but also attracted international coffee chains, providing a wide variety of coffee options for locals, expats, and tourists alike.
Another important factor in the growth of Singapore’s coffee culture is the emphasis placed on education and training within the industry, which has undoubtedly elevated the standards of coffee served in Singapore. Training institutions such as NTUC LearningHub offer a comprehensive professional barista course in Singapore, where students can learn everything from basic barista skills to advanced techniques like latte art, milk frothing, and so much more.
The Demand for Baristas
It’s no secret that as coffee consumption in Singapore continues to evolve and rise, so does the demand for skilled baristas in the coffee industry. Baristas are the true heroes of any coffee establishment, crafting delicious coffee and coffee-based beverages that showcase their expertise. There are a few benefits of being a barista in Singapore, such as:
- Skill Development and Career Progression: Working as a barista allows you to acquire and refine several valuable skills. From mastering the art of espresso making and latte art to developing exceptional customer service abilities, the skills you gain are highly sought after in many other professions. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities for career progression within the coffee industry, such as becoming a head barista, café manager, or even coffee shop owner.
- Learning Opportunities: Baristas constantly learn on the job, and they even have the opportunity to refine their skills by attending formal barista training in Singapore, which will cover essential topics such as espresso machine operation, milk frothing, and basic latte art. As a barista, you will have plenty of opportunities to learn from training partners and mentors, who will guide you through the nuances of coffee preparation and service, which in turn, will refine your barista skills.
- Certification and Recognition: You can receive a certificate upon completing a barista workshop in Singapore or attending a relevant training programme which boosts your skills and knowledge. Additionally, a recognised certificate not only enhances your credibility but also increases your employability in the coffee industry. With a recognised certificate, you can confidently apply for positions at renowned espresso bars or specialty coffee shops.
- Customer Interaction and Service Skills: As a barista, you have the opportunity to perfect your customer service skills. Interacting with customers allows you to understand their preferences, enabling you to provide personalised recommendations. This direct communication not only enhances customer experience but also builds your interpersonal skills as a barista, which are invaluable in any profession.
Learning Opportunities for Aspiring Baristas
For those who are passionate about coffee and eager to commence a barista career, there are plenty of learning opportunities, such as attending a barista class in Singapore. A comprehensive coffee class in Singapore will cover topics such as the basics of coffee, its origins, coffee preparation, and much more. These courses, including specialised workshops like latte art, cater to various levels of expertise, ensuring that both beginners and experienced baristas can enhance their skills.
Enrol in a Barista Course by NTUC Learning Hub
The future of coffee in Singapore looks promising. With continued growth in coffee consumption and the rising popularity of speciality coffee, the demand for skilled baristas is expected to remain strong. As more Singaporeans develop a taste for high-quality coffee, the coffee culture in Singapore will continue to evolve, offering exciting opportunities for both consumers and professionals in the industry.
If you are passionate about coffee and want to embark on a career as a barista, there’s no better time to start than now! Consider enrolling in an extensive barista course such as the WSQ Provide Specialty Coffee Service course offered by NTUC LearningHub. This course is targeted at coffee lovers and those who wish to join the F&B industry, entrepreneurs who wish to develop the technical skills required to start a coffee business, and retirees who aim to attain a skill set while transitioning from one job to another.
This professional barista course in Singapore introduces learners to the fundamentals of coffee, including its origins, machine maintenance, and the preparation of espresso, while promoting opportunities in the food and beverage industry. It is designed for those interested in speciality coffee and aims to enhance their knowledge and skills.
From 1 October 2023, Singapore citizens and PRs can utilise the Singpass App for attendance in SkillsFuture Singapore’s (SSG) funded courses, such as SkillsFuture baking courses with full competency required to retain funding. Eligible Singapore citizens can use their SkillsFuture Credits to offset course fees payable after funding.