@keithpp This is a rather disappointing vanity project on James's part. His online contributions were more useful a long time ago when he was just interested in making better #coffee. After he started his own business, his writing became painfully self-conscious, & his main focus shifted from getting more people interested in good coffee to finding ways to increase margins & otherwise get more money out of existing customers' pockets. Profit & corporate sponsorship have taken over
@SlowRain I think not. It covers an important period when quality coffee took off in England. Thus important historical moment. People in the business think a good idea. No one has to buy. #books #coffee #coffeeculture
@keithpp James has a long history of flattering a certain group of his peers, & they, in turn, return the favor. It's not so much that the industry approves, it's just his clique. As for it being an important part of #coffee history in England, it's too soon to write that book--and too self-serving if he's the one who does it. He has contributed, certainly, but he used to contribute more effectively before. He's mostly about self-promotion these days.
@SlowRain People I have spoken to, are not part of his clique, and they would strongly disagree with you. This phase, is drawing to an end. Quality coffee shops are established and growing. All we are seeing now is gimmicks. And people who know nothing about coffee opening coffee shops. As book not yet published, you cannot comment on content. #coffee #coffeeculture
@keithpp It's a best-of from his blog. Anyone,
who has already read it for free can comment.
Yes, there is gimmicky #coffee now, & James et al.'s role should be discussed in leading to this environment. Older, well-established shops in the US are selling out. Their final chapter in #coffee history isn't written yet, why should England's somehow be?
And, be careful who you reference. Is it people who have objectively observed, or is it industry people who indirectly owe him?