Lavazza expands North America footprint with New Los Angeles training center 

Lavazza opens an advanced Los Angeles Training Center, boosting coffee education, innovation, and cultural engagement while expanding its North American presence and global training network.

USA – Lavazza has opened its newly expanded Los Angeles Training Center, strengthening its presence in North America and adding to its global network of 58 training locations. 

The new facility in Los Angeles is designed as an immersive “coffee university,” offering visitors a comprehensive journey from coffee bean origins to the craft of Italian espresso.  

The centre is equipped with advanced espresso machines, brewing systems, and innovation tools aimed at supporting professional development across the coffee industry. 

Lavazza said the training hub will serve baristas, hospitality professionals, distributors, and coffee enthusiasts throughout Southern California. Programmes at the centre include hands-on barista training, Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)-certified courses, menu development, and specialised coffee experiences. 

The company described the facility as more than a training space, positioning it as a cultural hub. It said the centre will act as “a cultural touchpoint where Italian coffee heritage and Los Angeles creativity converge.” 

The Los Angeles opening follows the launch of another major North American training facility in Dallas in December 2025, marking the company’s continued investment in expanding its footprint in the region. 

Daniele Foti highlighted the brand’s philosophy behind the initiative. “For Lavazza, coffee has always been about more than what’s in the cup – it’s about connection, and that belief sits at the core of everything we do,” he said. 

He added, “Los Angeles is a city built on exactly that same idea … this Training Center is Lavazza’s way of being part of that energy – bringing our Italian heritage and passion for coffee innovation into a city whose creativity and spirit feel like a natural home for everything Lavazza stands for.” 

Founded in Turin in 1895, Lavazza remains a family-owned business spanning four generations. The company operates in 140 markets and manages a portfolio that includes brands such as Carte Noire, Merrild, and Kicking Horse. 

In 2025, Lavazza reported a 15.7 percent increase in annual turnover to €3.9 billion, supported by strong performance in key markets. North America was a standout region, with sales rising by 27 percent despite the impact of import tariffs. 

Antonio Baravalle said “agility” would remain central to the company’s strategy in 2026, citing geopolitical tensions and rising costs as key challenges. 

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