The Barista Championship is the flagship competition in the SCASA calendar - where coffee professionals combine technical mastery, sensory excellence, and storytelling to create unforgettable coffee experiences. At this level, every detail matters: from the precision of the espresso to the artistry of milk textures, and the connection forged with the judges.
To make such a competition possible, one essential element must be guaranteed - world-class espresso machines that deliver unwavering consistency and performance. That’s why SCASA is proud to partner with La Marzocco South Africa, our official machine sponsor for the Barista Championship.
Why the Right Machine Matters
The Barista Championship places enormous demands on equipment. Across multiple rounds, machines must deliver:
- Thermal stability: Ensuring every extraction is consistent from the first shot to the last.
- Pressure profiling and control: Allowing competitors to express the full potential of their chosen coffees.
- Milk steaming performance: Critical for texture, temperature, and the precision required in latte art.
- Reliability under competition conditions: With dozens of competitors, the machine must perform flawlessly round after round.
La Marzocco’s heritage of engineering excellence ensures that competitors have the ideal platform to bring their vision and coffees to life, without compromise.
La Marzocco South Africa’s Role
As the South African arm of a globally respected brand, La Marzocco South Africa ensures that local competitions benefit from the same iconic machines trusted on international stages. Their support guarantees that competitors are trained and tested on the very equipment they are likely to encounter when representing South Africa abroad.
Beyond competitions, La Marzocco South Africa plays a vital role in nurturing the specialty coffee community through training, events, and partnerships. Their ethos is not only about providing machines - it’s about creating experiences, building community, and supporting the craft of espresso in South Africa.
A Legacy of Craft and Innovation
Since its founding in Florence in 1927, La Marzocco has been synonymous with innovation and craftsmanship in espresso machine design. From pioneering the first horizontal boiler to advancing dual-boiler technology, the brand has consistently set global benchmarks for quality.
By carrying this legacy forward, La Marzocco South Africa brings both tradition and innovation to the local industry - supporting baristas as they refine their skills and inspiring a culture of excellence that strengthens the entire coffee community.
Gratitude to Our Sponsor
SCASA is profoundly grateful to La Marzocco South Africa for their sponsorship of the Barista Championship. Their machines provide not only the reliability required for competition but also the inspiration and trust that baristas need to perform at their best.
On behalf of our competitors, judges, and the wider coffee community: thank you, La Marzocco South Africa, for helping us showcase the very best of specialty coffee on the competition stage.
