FEATURES
IN THIS ISSUE
20 Everybody Loves Chocolate
Capitalizing on the combination of coffee and cacao beans.
By Brenda G. Russell
25 Sit-uational Awareness
The latest trends in seating layout and design.
By Brenda Porter-Rockwell
December
2013
Volume 20
Number 12
29 Regional Update: Ski Locations
Coffee shops situated near the slopes.
By Maura Keller
25
FROM THE EDITOR
20
Embracing the Cold
I
t's not yet officially winter (at least as of this writing), but the temperature has certainly dropped
in most of the country. Few indulgences battle the freezing temperatures better than a cup of
hot chocolate, and this month we're featuring a variety of chocolate-flavored drinks. From mocha
to cocoa to other ingredients appealing to customers' inner chocoholic, be sure to check out the
latest developments in chocolate beverages (see Everybody Loves Chocolate, page 20).
Jeremy Nedelka, editor
Skiers coming in from a few runs on the mountain are especially in need of a hot pick-meup, which is the forte of the ski resorts profiled in this month's Regional Update (see Shops on
the Slopes, page 29). From a ski-through Starbucks to a roaster complete with cottages for visitors, these retailers know what
winter vacationers want.
Of course, not everyone wants to curl up next to the fire with a warm cup of cocoa, even when it's snowing outside. For
shops in more temperate climates, or those with customers willing to brave the cold, outdoor seating is a year-round option.
New heating technology means patio and deck seating can generate revenue well past autumn (see Sit-uational Awareness,
page 25), even in northern states.
From all of us at Specialty Coffee Retailer, stay warm and have a happy holiday season!
Jeremy Nedelka, Editor
3