The Trojan Horse - A Philippine Coffee Industry Alert

Philippine Coffee Industry Alert:

It's sad how a coffee roasting company with rock-solid foundation could crumble down in less than a year since a new owner took over. And mind you the acquisition price is a hefty-sum!

Immediately, customers noticed a change for the WORSE in the quality of beans (taste, aroma and uniformity of size), consistency of blends/roasts, AND the company's image has gone from reputable and classy to "bakya" (cheap).

Like a plague hitting a town, their old allies left in haste, refusing to be associated with their unscrupulous ways. And so the merry-go-round begins, as new partnerships are formed among those who scampered to a better relationship. This year's trade shows will definitely be an exciting one!

Some words of wisdom as the Year Of The Horse gallops in:

1) Respect your elders

2) Be true to your word (have integrity)

3) Focus on your core competence. Don't be a jack of all trades, master of none

4) Be nice to the people you meet on the way up, so they'll reciprocate it to you as you spiral down to the abyss

5) Money is not an end in itself. You may be loaded with cash, but imagination and true friends can never be bought

These are basic rules your parents should have taught you...

Oh and as a fitting tribute to the HORSE Year, take a cue from  the famous Trojan Horse story - your friend is your worse enemy! So behave-behave!!!

Kung Hei Fat Choi!!!!!

Mr. C's Premium Syrups & Cocktail Mixers

Far Skyes Enterprise ushers in 2014 with a BANG!!! by unveiling the latest member of its growing family - MR. C's Premium Syrups & Cocktail Mixers.

Proudly manufactured in Seattle, WA, this syrup line spells "Quality Make" with no less than 12% fruit puree infused in pure cane sugar. More reason to toast life's simple joys, MR. C's is the perfect base for smoothies, fruit-inspired drinks, cocktails, mocktails and many more. The possibilities are endless... So what are you waiting for? Let your CREATIVE JUICES flow!!!

The Far Skyes Way

Husband & Wife tandem keeping it real 

So what exactly is THE FAR SKYES WAY? Since business commenced way back in 1995 we've witnessed how beverage trends arose, evolved and subsided. Disheartening as it may seem, that's how the law of economics work, and businessmen have no choice but to adapt to the changing times to stay afloat. Shape up or be shipped out!

At Far Skyes we keep things uncomplicated, from the way we conduct meetings & presentations, to the way we do day-to-day business. We treat each and every client equally, with utmost importance, sometimes taking them too seriously to a fault.

Our globally sourced products speak for themselves as far as taste, quality, functionality and form are concerned.

Best of all, our beverage training is stripped down to its basic essentials. The signature drinks we concoct are not laced with fancy latte art, sugar-coated with unnecessary add-ons, or prepared with dancing and/or flaring on the side. We simply make Damn Good Drinks, PERIOD!!!

Caffeinated & Creamy drinks done the Far Skyes Way!!!

Esprecious by Bravilor Bonamat

Proudly manufactured in The Netherlands, Bravilor Bonamat unleashed its ESPRECIOUS espresso machine on Philippine shore, just in time for the annual Asia Food Expo (AFEX).

The ULTIMATE Triple-tag-team:
Fresh Coffee Beans by Boyd's,
Creme/Sweetener by Far Skyes,
Handsome Machine by Bravilor 

Triple-tag-teaming with Robert Francisco of Boyd's,  (Bravilor's exclusive importer/distributor) and Far Skyes Enterprise, Esprecious showcased why it is a comprehensive yet compact machine with a conveniently (read SMART) arranged touch screen.

Installation is a cinch! Simply set/program the desired variety (Cappuccino, Long Black, Latte, Cafe Creme, Cafe Mocha, etc.) and strength, then fill the chambers with the ingredients (coffee beans, sweetener, cocoa powder, frappe base, etc.) based on the menu you created, select your favorite backlight color (FUN!), then watch away with glee as your selected beverage is prepared.

Brewing caffeinated and creamy goodies soon. Watch out for it in your favorite cafe, hotel chain, airport lounge and/or anything and everything coffee.

With Mr. Peter Kaaz, Bravilor's Export Sales Manager,
and Mr. Robert Francisco of Boyd's Coffee

Easy as 1-2-3 don't you agree???!!!

WOFEX 2013

Time certainly flies and we're posting another successful WOFEX Show performance. For the "Nth" time, BOYD'S Coffee and Far Skyes Enterprise combined forces to showcase their signature Caffeinated & Creamy Experience that's never equaled!  Two companies with one common vision simply stated...

This year was made extra "syrupy sweet" with the arrival of Eagle Beverage's (owner of the STASERO brand from Seattle, WA) boss Ms. Aisha Kabani, to lend a hand and reiterate her unconditional support to us. Ten solid years and counting, we're truly filled with gratitude and it makes us prouder to represent your brand!

A significant year for BOYD's Coffee as well, with the owner's firm commitment to continue doing what he does best - Trailblazing! New machines, new concepts, reinvigorated passion for the Coffee Industry!

A bigger and better show next year? MOST DEFINITELY!

The Eagle Has Landed!

Two Family-Owned Companies United By A Common Vision
TEN YEARS And Counting!

Welcome to the Philippines Ms. Aisha Kabani, proud owner of EAGLE BEVERAGE, manufacturer of the STASERO brand - from Syrups, to Sauces and More!  Aisha's first week-long visit coincides with the upcoming WOFEX event from July 31 to August 3, 2013, where she will extend her full support to their Philippine partner Far Skyes Enterprise. 

High Five from one Child of Owner
(C.O.O.) to another!

First things first though, as proper GRATITUDE must be extended to those responsible for literally and figuratively stamping STASERO in the Philippine Map:

The perfect way to start your day, nothing beats exchanging
pleasantries over a cup of Boyd's coffee 

SECOND TO NONE: Explaining the meticulous standards of
Boyd's Coffee, making them the undisputed market
leader for over two decades

An early morning courtesy call was made to BOYD'S COFFEE PHILIPPINES President ROBERT FRANCISCO, long time ally of Far Skyes Enterprise, and staunch supporter of the STASERO brand. Once again, "Thank You" Robert for your endless generosity and unconditional friendship through thick and thin!

THE Branch that revolutionized the Milk Tea Frenzy! 

The "Bosses" chat over things beyond business

Last but not the least was a visit to the very first SERENITEA branch in San Juan, where Big Boss JULIET HERRERA treated us to a sumptuous feast of anything and everything that made it a byword in the country's beverage Pop Culture. Growing old together never felt better. Countless appreciation for trusting our humble company and the brands we represent since the beginning!

Here's to more frequent visits in the years to come! Bigger and Better things await...

Caffeinated Xmas Gift Box

LOVELY!!! Most certainly an instant pick-me-upper (and post caffeine rush once consumed) when you open this Christmas package.

Though not really up our alley, it is next to impossible to turn down a favor from our avid supporter and Boss Ms. Sydney Go, STUDIO SnR's dynamic Director for Marketing, who asked us to come up with a Gift Box for her to give away to preferred clients and close industry allies. Something different, most definitely fresh, best off something to cherish (and not recycled) once possessed. Presto Pronto, BOYD's Coffee 200grams Espresso Italiano paired with 2 x 50ml STASERO Flavored Syrups.

Now to find out who's been naughty or nice in Sydney's list... Happy Holidays from STUDIO SnR  and FAR SKYES ENTERPRISE!

2012 Review

As I welcome 2013's arrival in a few blinks it's time once again to reflect on the what 2012 has meant to me. For some reason the year went by swiftly, probably a good sign since we know how things seem to "fly by" when one's busy, enjoying, or both.

Factory tour in Seattle, Washington.
Kiddo finally understands what his Daddy does for a living

A record-breaking Business Year for my company FAR SKYES ENTERPRISE, and I'm certain it will escalate further. The brands I globally source and represent have finally gained the much-needed attention they deserve, and I am truly grateful to those who believe!

A great year as far as health is concerned, special shout out to my Dad who victoriously overcame his bout with pneumonia. In a nutshell, viewing life as half-full I am glad to be able to spend another Christmas with him and my loved ones... Cheers to Life!

A fruitful year of traveling, being able to visit new States in the US: Washington (Seattle), Oregon (Portland), and Texas (Houston & San Antonio); and locally, touching base with Boracay anew.

My best friend who's in his late 40's became a Dad for the first time, and he's tremendously enjoying fatherhood so much so that he's contemplating on retiring to devote all his time, energy and psyche to his little bundle of joy. I'm glad he finally understands what I've been doing for the past 8 years. As my Dad always says, "Money is not an end in itself, a rainbow is ALWAYS better than a pot of gold."

Happy New Year!!! From my family to yours...

Early Christmas gift list–Flavored Coffee from Boyd's

LIFTED FROM CHEF REGGIE ASPIRAS' PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER COLUMN, 8/30/2012, TITLED "EARLY CHRISTMAS GIFT LIST - FROM COFFEE TO 'PINIPIG SUMAN'"

Early Christmas gift list–from flavored coffee to ‘pinipig suman’

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, well at least in the next two days it will. And what better way to celebrate the holidays than by waking up to 12 different flavors of coffee for each of the 12 days of Christmas.

Robert Francisco of Boyd’s Coffee recently came up with a dozen holiday flavors that are unlike many of those available.

Francisco’s coffees are a delight not just for their aroma but also for their taste.

I have been a flavored coffee fan for years. Unfortunately there are many brands that do not allow you to enjoy the whole experience. Some  just  have luscious aroma but have lackluster taste.

This is how Boyd’s coffee is different.

I had the most wonderful time tasting some of the variants during the  World Food Expo; each one stayed true, in character and form—the Cinnamon Ginger Bread, Crispy Oatmeal Crumble and Hazelnut tasted exactly as they should (the hazelnut was earthier, nuttier, muskier than those I’ve tried). Each is well rounded, full—in flavor, with its own identity and not acidic.

The other flavors I have yet to try are Butter Rhum, Caramel Nut, Roasted Caramel, Irish Crème, Butterscotch, Caramel Kettle Corn, Toffee, Caramel Hazelnut Cream and Cinnamon Hazelnut.

I learned from Francisco that he makes his coffee with only high-grown Arabica, which is sweet, nutty balanced and clean, with mild sharpness, perfect for flavoring.

“All our coffee varieties are freshly roasted. We roast, and, in the case of our Christmas coffees, flavor the beans only when you order.”

Francisco’s coffee uses oils based on the quality and their capacity to make their coffee taste as close and as natural to their respective flavors as possible.

Let us enjoy the first of our many Christmas cups of coffee. They’re best enjoyed with milk and sugar, lalo na kung walang true love!

(Call 0922-8745217, 7462233,7462693)

Chef Reggie Aspiras with Franklin Tiu of Far Skyes Enterprise
and Roberto Francisco of Boyd's Coffee, WOFEX 2012

This picture says it all... Three weeks ago it was love at first glance when Chef Reggie Aspiras, one of the most revered culinary masters in the Philippines, visited the Boyd's Coffee & Far Skyes Enterprise booth during the WOFEX 2012 show. What started as an annual "Hi, how are you?" cascaded as the vibrant-crimson foil packaging of Boyd's flavored coffee caught Chef Reggie's fancy. Sampling the various flavors interested her even more, thus it led to her writing about it in her much-read and much-awaited weekly column in the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

MERCI Chef!  Perfect timing as the infamous over-extended Philippine Yuletide Season begins in a few days! Welcoming the BER months... Flavorful Christmas Cheerios to all!

Pocket Workshop In Progress - Coffee, Tea By ME!

Six (6) "Coffee, Tea By ME!!! POCKET Workshop" batches and counting... Far Skyes Enterprise in cooperation with Studio SnR wish to thank everyone who inquired and participated for believing in us and the priceless beauty of learning!

In line with our commitment to TOTAL Customer Satisfaction, allow me to highlight this particular batch (our 5th) conducted last August 5, 2012. Our two participants are from Cagayan de Oro (CDO), and they flew to Manila to attend the WOFEX Show from August 1-4. No thanks to the strong rains, massive floods and horrendous traffic experienced during that week (take note, there's no typhoon), here are their constraints:

The Pocket Workhop in progress...

1) The terrible weather messed up their schedule, thus they are requesting if we could do the Pocket Workshop on a Sunday since they are leaving early morning the following day. ✓

Highlighting the Jura Ena9, the DO-IT-ALL
Fully-Automatic Espresso Machine

2) Due to the floods, and since Studio SnR is closed during sundays, the only solution is to conduct the training in our humble abode, situated on high ground and is conveniently located. ✓

Making-do! It's all about flexibility,
love-for-work and professionalism

3) They are more inclined in opening a Milk Tea place in CDO, so they asked if we could tailor-fit the the Workshop to suit their requirements. ✓

Hokkaido Milk Tea 

Strawberry-Yakult Smoothie anyone??? 

All their requests we found a solution to in our never-ending commitment to the Coffee, Tea By ME! Workshop we love and which has given us the added OOMPH in terms of product mileage and brand recall.

One for the road, the all-natural
Blueberry smoothie!♥

Off to serve the succeeding batches, despite the conditions and limitations. Proving that Far Skyes Enterprise and Studio SnR are NO fair-weathered friends. Staying true to our oath of Spreading the Caffeinated & Creamy Love - One Drink At A Time! 

Cheers to learning!!!

Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) 2012

A lifetime of gratitude to our  STASERO USA Family for the warm reception and for sponsoring our visit to the 24th annual Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) Event, held last April 18-19, 2012 in the Rose City of Portland, Oregon (PDX).

Thank You Mr. Kabani! Here's to a 100 more years, even beyond...

The STASERO brand, proudly made in Seattle, Washington is a loyal member and exhibitor of the SCAA, and is well-represented by Far Skyes Enterprise in the Philippines (including some parts of South-East Asia) since 2003. Pleasure was ours to once again touch base with the Kabani family and reaffirm our commitment as brand-partners.

Calm before the storm, getting ready for the show

Proud event-sponsor BOYD's Coffee USA

Opening Remarks by the SCAA Officers

Scratch one off our "coffee geek" bucket list as this event, our first in both the show and the city,  is truly the mecca for anything and everything CAFFEINE (and many more). A weekend where the stars of the Coffee Universe all came together, and the perfect venue to rub elbows with fellow aficionados and industry friends - both old and new!

Peaches Go-Tiu of Far Skyes Enteprise with Ms. Aisha Kabani
of Eagle Beverage, proud owner & manufacturer of the Stasero Brand

Metting up in PDX with good friends, Boyd Coffee Philippines
President Roberto Francisco & Wife Dr. Christine Santos-Francisco

Enjoying my 1st cup, experts say "Superb coffee begins w/ great beans.
 Coffee should be well roasted resulting balance and fullness in flavor ."   

Global exhibitors ready to showcase their stuff

One day is not enough for "looksies" and hobnobbing. Here are some photos we took of the SCAA 2012 show...  Happy viewing!

The Astoria Team Came in Full-Force

Such a kick-ass roaster!

Sampling Single Origins via Pour-Overs - Public Domain

Cold Brew never tasted better... 

Proudly Guatemalan

Free Coffee everywhere! ♥

The whole SCAAA experience stamped a huge and lasting smile on our faces, knowing the Brands we represent and promote are of fine reputation. Limitless possibilities await the coffee industry as well, as this drink has proven time and again that it transcends culture, barriers and even recession.  Time for the attendees to head back to their respective points of origin, yet with a united outlook of positivity for the industry we all love! Looking forward to the next one?  See you all in BEAN Town 2013!

"Take in our city's innovative cafes & roasteries, but also enjoy the natural beauty
 that has played an integral role in bringing so many people here. It's an exciting
time for Portland and specialty coffee alike, and we look forward to celebrating
 it here together." -  Chris Ryan,  Editor,  Fresh Cup Magazine