Brewing the future: How AI and automation are transforming coffee businesses at scale

14 May 2026
The Lab

Coffee is becoming increasingly emotional, personalised and demanding, while large‑scale operations face rising complexity and volatility. In this keynote, Gerd Mueller‑Pfeiffer explores why traditional operating models no longer work and how AI, automation and digital infrastructure are already delivering real value across the coffee value chain - improving quality, reducing volatility and protecting margins. Rather than replacing people, the focus is on building resilient systems that let humans do what they do best: exercise judgment, deliver hospitality and create emotional connection. The session ends with clear guidance for leaders on designing operating models that scale intelligently while preserving the soul of coffee.