G4C Midlands presents: Generation 4 Coffee

This October, G4C Midlands launches the Generation 4 Coffee series – a chance for informal networking over a great coffee. We spoke to G4C’s vice chair Joseph Butler ACIAT , about his love for coffee and how we can support small businesses.

Why Coffee?

“I started drinking coffee during my time at university. And that wasn’t just to keep me awake for 24 hours as an architectural technology student (I’m sure most architecture/technology students will relate).

It was about the space I sat in whilst doing my work, people watching, making friends with strangers and being inspired for my work. Coffee is more than just a drink. For me, it's an experience. It's a reason for getting out of the house and a way to catch up with friends, colleagues and clients.”

What is Generation for Coffee?

“Generation for Coffee was created to compliment formal networking events that the G4C Midlands organise. The committee saw the need to create a less formal networking event that could be during lunch hours. We work closely with local independent coffee shops to host these events.”

Why not host events at a coffee shop like Costa or Starbucks?

“The G4C Midlands committee are passionate about supporting local businesses. I personally find that the quality of coffee is much better at independents, with the baristas taking more pride in the product they are supplying. I also sense a feeling of community in supporting local brummies – and a sense of giving back by supporting these independently run coffee shops.”

What are your top coffee shops in Birmingham??

“Pause Coffee is located in Kings Court in Kings Heath, they take real pride in the coffee that they serve. The owners Rory and Farah frequently order in different roasts.? In addition to the amazing coffee, both Rory and Farah are so welcoming that you feel like a regular on your first visit!

Pause also provides baked goods, with the famous ‘Cinnamuffin’ baked by Farah herself. I highly recommend trying these, they are delicious.”

“Faculty is also a well-hidden gem within the city centre of Birmingham. I always believe that the best way to find gems is to walk the city and be intrigued by the little alleys, corners and unique arcades that the city is home to.

Based in the Piccadilly Arcade opposite New Street train station, Faculty is a minimalistic coffee shop that focuses purely on providing great coffee - and it really is great.”

“Perch is the younger sister to Early Bird Bakery based in the citadel by Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Both spaces give the real ‘Aussie’ café vibe – but with a hint of added sophistication.

The coffee is wonderful, and with it being part of a bakery, I highly recommend you try these out. In true Aussie fashion, the brunch is pretty good there too.”

The G4C Midlands committee would love you to join us in supporting Birmingham’s independent businesses by coming along to a Generation for Coffee event!

You can get your free ticket now to our first event on Wednesday 23rd October at Yorks Café at the IKON Gallery here: Generation 4 Coffee – Constructing Excellence Midlands

We hope to see you there!