– Can you please introduce yourself in a few words.
My name is Timothy Van Acker. Born in Antwerp, spent 14 years in Germany, at the moment back in Antwerp. Next stop?
– What’s your story in the coffee industry?
I’ve been working for years in the hospitality industry with a focus on beverages. I’ve always tried to learn a lot of the different products I was working with, like beers, whisky, gin, wine, cocktails, coffee, tea… Coffee was the one that always came back. So, I decided to learn more about it. I love all the small details that have an influence on your product. From farmer to roaster, to barista and finally the guest who enjoys the cup. Every single person who has been involved in the process has an influence on the experience of the customer.
– When did Normo open and what is the story behind?
That’s a good question for Jens Oris (the owner)
– What’s your specialty and what makes you different?
What makes me different? I don’t know, I’m just trying to give everyone an excellent drink in a nice atmosphere with a smile.
– What was your first coffee experience?
In a small espresso bar in the south of Germany.
– Do you prepare coffee at home ? If yes, what method do you use?
Not that often, but whenever I’ll have to make my coffee somewhere else than in the bar, I use the Aeropress or a V60.
– How do you like your coffee? Black, sugar and milk, iced, vietnamese style,…?
Mostly black, no matter if it’s on a filter, espresso or cold brew. Sometimes a cappuccino.
– How would you qualify yourself as coffee drinker (occasional, heavy, addict…)?
It depends. If we get a lot of new stuff in, I drink a lot.
– Have you always been into the coffee industry? If not, what was your previous job?
I’ve always been working in the hospitality industry. At my last job I was head-bartender of Felixpakhuis in Antwerp.
– Do you have another passion or a hobby besides coffee?
Yes, Triathlon! Before I started Triathlon, I was too focused on my job. Due to triathlon I got closer to my inner peace and during the long training sessions you can reset by reflecting your day. The other advantage is the feeling you got, when crossing the finish line after months of hard training, Priceless! My other favorite thing I like to do is traveling!
– What other place would you recommend, anywhere in the world (coffee or not)?
I just went to Colombia for holidays and a family visit. That’s a pretty nice place, especially Cartagena de Indias ;-).
– What would you say to people who don’t know much about coffee?
Come in, ask, let you guide, discover, be honest and one the most important things having a coffee (no matter if it’s alone with a book or with good company), ENJOY THE MOMENT!