NAMA Opens Nominations for Coffee Services Leadership

ARLINGTON, VA — The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) is accepting nominations for its 2026 Coffee Legend of the Year Award. This honor recognizes an individual’s leadership and contributions to the coffee services industry for a decade or more. Eligible nominees may include, but are not limited to, individuals working as coffee service operators, roasters, manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, brokers, or educators, and must be a NAMA member.

“NAMA’s Coffee Legend of the Year Award recognizes a person whose work elevates the entire coffee services ecosystem,” said NAMA President and CEO, Christine Cochran. “A Coffee Legend innovates, sets standards, and opens doors for others. When you nominate someone, you’re helping spotlight the individuals whose contributions make a meaningful difference, not only in coffee service, but across the broader convenience services industry.”

“Being named Coffee Legend last year reminded me how much this award honors the people who shape the industry,” said Vice President of Operations/Coffee Experience at WithMe, Inc., Jim Carbone. “It celebrates the leaders whose passion and commitment keep coffee services advancing across convenience services, and being part of that legacy is something I’ll always be grateful for.”

Nominations should highlight a nominee’s standout achievements, leadership, and long-term influence on coffee service. Submissions are encouraged to recognize colleagues whose work has advanced the profession and contributed meaningfully to the broader convenience services industry. Visit the NAMA Industry Awards webpage to learn more about award eligibility and criteria.

Submit a nomination by 11:59 p.m. on August 17, 2026 — Nominate today.

The Coffee Legend recipient will be celebrated at CTW, November 18-19 in Austin, Texas. Registration will open this summer.