• by Tanya Gazdik , January 31, 2012

Krups USA, maker of coffee and espresso machines and kitchen appliances, is kicking off the "Krups Best Brew Awards 2012," a campaign introduced to discover the best coffee shops across the nation.

The company is inviting the public to submit their favorite coffee shops on its Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/KRUPSUSA). In addition, Krups is expanding this year's search to discover the best baristas throughout the country. Talented coffee-tenders are invited to showcase their skills in order to vie for a seat on the "Krups Coffee Council."

Millville, N.J.-based Krups is promoting the contests on both Facebook and Twitter. On Facebook, the company has created separate tabs for both contests. Nominated shops are encouraged to share the contest with their clients, fans and social media circles to garner votes.

Last year, the contest was called the “Krups Cup O’ Joe Awards,” but the company ran into some trademark issues -- so it changed the name for this year and going forward.

Krups' motto is “Passion, Precision, Perfection” and the contest seeks to find like- minded coffee purveyors, says Michele Lupton, Krups marketing communications director.

The awards will honor the best coffee shops in New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas, San Francisco, Atlanta and Washington, D.C.

People can vote on Krups’ Facebook page for one of five local shops in each city, comprised of last year's winners and overall top picks, in addition to having the opportunity to "write in" a vote for a favorite coffee shop that may not appear on the list. Voting will be open through Feb. 24 and winners will be announced Feb. 27.

Baristas in these 10 cities who want to win a seat on the Krups Coffee Council can submit a video demonstrating their talents and complete a questionnaire, all of which can be found on the Krups Facebook page. Submissions must be sent by Feb. 24 and the winners will be announced April 2. Krups will utilize the council throughout the year for regional events and promotions, media opportunities and new product demonstrations.