5 min read

Starting a Coffee Shop? Read This First

Within every thriving community, you'll likely find an independently-owned coffee shop. In today's world, coffee shops serve as key spaces for community members to connect and engage. It's no surprise that many are curious about the viability of starting their own coffee shop. Here, we share insights from our years of experience running Ember Coffee. We know because we've done it!

Starting a Coffee Shop? Read This First

Within every thriving community, you'll likely find an independently-owned coffee shop. In today's world, coffee shops serve as key spaces for community members to connect and engage. It's no surprise that many are curious about the viability of starting their own coffee shop. Here, we share insights from our years of experience running Ember Coffee. We know because we've done it!

How to Start an Independent Coffee Shop - Ember Coffee Co.

Within every thriving community, you'll likely find an independently-owned coffee shop. In today's world, coffee shops serve as key spaces for community members to connect and engage. It's no surprise that many are curious about the viability of starting their own coffee shop. Here, we share insights from our years of experience running Ember Coffee. We know because we've done it!

Let’s explore how to start a coffee shop.

What we know about coffee shops

Like many, we took a leap of faith when opening Ember Coffee. None of us had prior experience running a business like this, but with a vision and a lot of passion we set out on the journey. Now several years later, we operate a successful cafe, a kitchen, and a roastery. We employ over 20 individuals, some of whom have been with us nearly from the start. To say we’ve learned a few things along the way is an understatement. We’ve learned a ton, some through successful hunches and some through utter failure. Thankfully we’re able to apply those lessons learned to further our business and continue our growth. We’re thankful for the people who coached us along the way by sharing their experience. And now we’re excited to share ours.

The coffee shop concept

On one side of the coffee offering spectrum, you have restaurants. For them, coffee is a tertiary product that is served after a meal. In the middle, you have cafes where coffee becomes a secondary offering served to nearly every customer alongside made-to-order dishes. And on the other side of the spectrum, you have coffee shops.

The primary offering of a coffee shop is, well, coffee. Not only is it in the name, but coffee beverages are also the number one seller. Second to coffee is food, mostly pre-made pastries and light made-to-order dishes. And third, packaged goods like coffee bags and chocolate bars, as well as other retail, will be tertiary offerings. This is important to consider as the concept will have a tremendous impact on your start-up costs.

12 Steps to Opening a Coffee Shop

1. Cast the vision

Develop a vision for your customer experience. What are you offering your community that doesn’t already exist? Who in your community are you targeting? What reputation do you want to obtain? Articulate this vision by creating a slide deck. Using images and text to tell the story. Dream big!

2. Build the business model

Now focus your vision into a model for a sustainable business. We recommend the Business Model Canvas, an easy to build table for developing your business model.

3. Set your menu

By this point, you probably have an idea of what you want to serve. Mock up a menu including all sizes and variants for all items. Once you’ve gotten everything written out, start chopping. Go item by item and ask if it is essential to your business’ success. If it’s not, cut it. A focused and concise menu will help you perform better than a bloated menu with too many options.

4. Find a location

You’ll be looking in areas that are either urban or suburban. Neither is better than the other, and there are pros and cons to both. Keep in mind that your rent or mortgage should cost you no more than 10% of your net revenue. If a location costs $5,000/mo, you should be able to bring in at least $50,000/mo in revenue. If you don’t think you can, keep looking.

Urban locations have high foot traffic and visibility. They’re in densely populated areas that also have high price tags. The benefit is you’ll be taking advantage of the draw the city creates. You’re going to where the people already are. In these areas, plan to rely heavily on to-go orders. At least half your sales will be from takeaway orders. Therefore, lots of seating isn’t necessary, and you can look for smaller spaces to stay within budget.

If you’re looking in the suburbs or on the outskirts, you will likely become a destination drawing people to you. Because of this, you’ll need to find a location large enough for plenty of seating. Customers will likely want to spend time in your shop, so don’t lose a potential customer because all the seats are taken. If you are in a car-heavy area, consider a drive-thru. Drive-thrus can be very successful if you’re able to keep up with the quick pace. Finding larger locations in the suburbs should still keep you within budget because of the cheaper price tag.

5. Design the shop

Now that you have a location in mind, hire an architect to help you lay it out. Architects know the building codes and laws to help you avoid costly changes later. You’ll not only be navigating building code but also health department requirements for food prep and city laws for accessibility.

6. Hire a contractor

Getting the right contractor to handle the build-out is critical. Once you have your architecture drawings done, send them to several contractors and get multiple bids for the project. You may have a number in mind, but by getting several bids, you’ll be able to zero in on the true cost. Hire someone with a good rate and a good track record. You don’t want to have to repair poor work later on. Also, build-outs almost always take longer than projected. So be sure to pad your schedule and don’t let it stress you if construction takes a few weeks longer than anticipated.

7. Finance

Financing can be the most discouraging step in the process. Once you have an idea for the build-out costs, but before you sign any contracts, you need to secure your financing. You’ll either be looking for loans or investment. With investment, you’ll be giving away ownership for capital. This is a great way to finance your shop as long as you and your investors are in alignment.

Personal loans can be the easiest way to finance as long as the terms are spelled out clearly like interest rates and payback dates. Loans from banks or the SBA (Small Business Association) are other options, but don’t be discouraged if they tell you no. Banks are typically pretty conservative when lending money to coffee shops. Try your best to avoid credit card debt. Credit cards are the most expensive way to finance your shop.

8. Set up services

Most of the items in this list will be happening simultaneously. While you are building out, hiring, and marketing, you’ll also need to be setting up all your services. Services like utilities, internet, security, your POS system, music, and service providers like CINTAS who provide towels, soaps, and floor mats.

9. Make it legal

In this business, asking for forgiveness is not easier than permission. Make sure you’re meeting all the legal requirements for operating a business. By this point, you should’ve already set up your LLC with your lawyer or CPA.

If you have business partners you should’ve also already set up your Operators Agreement as well. Now you’ll need to apply for an EIN (employee identification number) with the IRS, a state business license, and when you’re ready to open, you’ll need a certificate of occupancy. And definitely don’t forget about insurance coverage!

10. Hire and train

Provide plenty of time prior to opening for your team to build camaraderie and confidence. Train on customer service, prep, and bar flow. Use our reference below on figuring out who and how many to hire.

11. Market, market, market

Build hype! You want your community eagerly awaiting your opening. Start marketing your business at step 1 in this list. Make a splash by announcing your new business on social and with the local news. Get your family and friends involved.

Don’t lose momentum after the announcement, but keep it building by releasing information like the menu, renderings of the layout, pictures of construction, etc. Do small coffee pop-ups throughout the community during build-out to give people a taste. This will help ensure you have a line out the door on opening day.

12. Open!

Yay! You finally made it. Before announcing to the public that you’re open for business, work out the kinks by soft opening. At your first soft opening, invite family and friends, and if you can, don’t charge them. This is a gesture to thank them for supporting you, but also give your staff a warm-up. Plan to open for just a few hours, close, and spend a few hours with your staff working through what they learned and adjust what needs adjusting. Then do another soft open where you’re open to the public, but just let the word spread naturally. This will help prevent a rush that can overwhelm your new staff. Once you feel good, announce it to the world! Have balloons, a ribbon-cutting, get the mayor out, a DJ, and do everything you can to make it a celebration because you deserve it!

How much it all costs

TThe largest hurdle when opening a coffee shop is financing. And to figure out your financing, you need to have an accurate understanding of how much it will cost. And that depends entirely on your business model. The demographic you’re targeting, where they’re located, and the menu and experience that will appeal to them are the primary considerations when estimating your start-up costs. Keep in mind that you should have a goal of paying off your start-up costs within the first 5 years and ideally within the first 3. Your goal is to get to profitability as fast as possible. When estimating how much capital you’ll need to get off the ground, here are the things to consider.

Build-out ($100k-$300k)

Build-out is going to be your largest startup cost. Depending on the size of the space, your concept, and how much demolition and installation you’ll be doing, your cost will vary significantly. Finding a location that was previously a food & beverage establishment is a great way to reduce your build-out cost. Spend lots of time evaluating your layout and workflow to identify efficiencies like power and water placement. Expect build-out costs to fall somewhere between $100,000 and $300,000.

Equipment ($30k-$60k)

Equipment is the second largest cost when starting up. And it’s your menu that will dictate it. The equipment for a coffee shop falls into 3 categories: specialty equipment, commercial kitchen equipment, and ancillary equipment. Expect equipment costs to be between $30,000 and $60,000.

Specialty equipment

  1. Espresso Machine: The heart of any specialty coffee shop, this machine is vital for crafting everything from lattes to macchiatos, ensuring each cup meets the high standards your customers expect.

  2. Pitcher Rinser: Installed beside the espresso machine, this tool swiftly cleans pitchers between uses, maintaining the quality of milk-based drinks and speeding up the beverage preparation process.

  3. Knock Box: A simple yet indispensable tool for quickly disposing of used espresso grounds, keeping the bar area clean and efficient.

  4. Grinders: Critical for any coffee shop that prides itself on freshness, having separate grinders for espresso and regular coffee allows you to grind beans on-demand, preserving their flavor and aroma.

  5. Batch Brewer and Airpots: Essential for serving high volumes of coffee during peak hours, these allow you to brew large quantities that stay hot and fresh, catering to customers in a hurry without compromising quality.

  6. Hot Water Tower: Ensures that hot water is always available for tea and other beverages, facilitating efficient service and a diverse menu offering.

  7. Water Filtration System: A cornerstone for making great coffee, this system ensures that the water used in all beverages is clean and pure, enhancing the taste and quality of the drinks served.

Commercial kitchen equipment

  1. Ice Maker: An essential piece of equipment that ensures a constant supply of fresh ice for cold beverages, essential for iced coffees, smoothies, and other cold drinks, especially during warmer months.

  2. Refrigerators: Crucial for storing perishables like milk, cream, and fresh produce, refrigerators help maintain the freshness and quality of ingredients used in both beverages and food items.

  3. Freezer: Used for storing longer-term items such as frozen pastries, ice cream, and backup supplies, a freezer helps manage inventory and reduce waste by preserving essential ingredients until they’re needed.

  4. 3 Compartment Sink: A key component for maintaining hygiene, this sink features separate compartments for washing, rinsing, and sanitizing tools and dishes, ensuring that health standards are upheld throughout the operation.

  5. Dishwasher: Speeds up the cleaning process and ensures a high standard of sanitation for all dishware and utensils, crucial in a busy coffee shop environment where turnaround times are fast and volumes are high.

  6. Work Tables: Provide necessary space for food preparation and assembly, essential for efficient workflow and productivity in the kitchen and service areas of the shop.

Ancillary equipment

  1. Pour Over Brewers: Ideal for crafting single cups of meticulously brewed coffee, these brewers appeal to connoisseurs who appreciate the art and precision in coffee making.

  2. Kettles: Essential for heating water to the precise temperature needed for different types of coffee and tea, ensuring optimal flavor extraction.

  3. Tea Pots: Serve a dual purpose, not only for brewing loose-leaf or bagged teas but also for presenting them elegantly to customers, enhancing the tea-drinking experience.

  4. Tamp: A vital tool for espresso preparation, it compresses the coffee grounds evenly, ensuring a consistent and flavorful extraction.

  5. Tamp Mat: Protects the countertop and provides a stable base for tamping, essential for baristas to apply the right pressure without damaging surfaces.

  6. Milk Pitchers: Used for frothing milk to the perfect consistency for lattes and cappuccinos, these pitchers are crucial for the precise pouring and latte art that distinguish specialty coffee.

  7. Scales: Ensure precise measurements of coffee grounds and water, crucial for achieving the perfect coffee-to-water ratio and consistency across servings.

  8. Stirring Spoons: Used for mixing drinks, they’re also indispensable for preparing layered beverages and ensuring flavors are well incorporated.

  9. Whisks: Needed for beating milk, matcha, or other ingredients to create smooth and frothy textures in various drinks.

  10. Strainers: Help in filtering out fine particles from teas and coffees, ensuring clarity and purity in every cup.

  11. Squeeze Bottles: Useful for storing and precisely dispensing homemade syrups and sauces, they contribute to the efficiency and creativity of drink making.

  12. Kitchen Timers: Critical for timing the brewing process, they help baristas achieve perfect brew times for coffee and tea, crucial for maintaining high-quality standards in drink preparation.

Furnishings ($5k - $8k)

Furnishings are an extension of your brand. The experience you create for your customers through your furnishings should match the experience you provide within your cup. Be as intentional with your decor, tables, chairs, and cups and plates, as you are with your coffee. Sourcing can be difficult, but don’t hesitate to ask companies if they offer trade discounts.

Training ($5k - $8k)

Once you have assembled and hired your team, you will need to spend time together to train. Training should include casting your vision for the shop and the customer experience, training on beverage and food preparations, bar flow, and how to work together as a team. Give your team adequate time to train so they’re not stressed or lacking confidence when you open. You have one shot at a first impression, so set your team up for success. Budget a week’s worth of pay for training all team members prior to opening.

Professional services ($10k - $20k)

It takes a village to open a business. Plan to incur costs for hiring professional services like a CPA, lawyer, architect, graphic designer, interior designer, or business consultants.

Goods ($10k)

You will need to place orders for all your goods like coffee, milks, tea, flavorings, food, paper goods, and retail before you open. Plan for around $10,000 for purchasing these items, and don’t plan to make much money off your initial order. You’ll be using a good bit of it during training and soft opens.

Operating capital ($10k-$20k)

It will take time for you to become cash flow positive where you have more cash coming in than going out. To help relieve stress and give you a cushion for just-in-case, plan to have $10,000 to $20,000 in the bank for operating capital.

Who do you need to hire/how many people?

To figure out who you’ll need to hire, start by identifying your roles. General manager, shift manager, barista, chef, cook, baker, are all common positions at a coffee shop but you may not need all of them at the start. Though having an individual split between multiple roles sounds like an efficient idea, typically it doesn’t go well. Let your team dedicate their minds to a single position.

When hiring, start with your leadership team. Shift managers, lead baristas, and chefs will lead the team to success. Find people you believe in, who have experience, and that align with your vision. Even if you start out managing the employees yourself, you will eventually want to delegate those tasks, so having people to promote will be a smoother transition than hiring from outside.

To estimate how many people you need to hire, start by creating a mock schedule. Based on the hours you’ll be operating, figure out the stations that will need personnel throughout the day. Coffee shops tend to be busiest in the late morning and early afternoon. And weekends are typically busier than weekdays so plan to be fully staffed at those times. Also be sure to account for time to open and close the shop.

What supplies do you need?

Goods sold

Goods sold are the things that go into a purchase. It includes your coffee, milks, tea, flavorings, food, and retail. You’ll need to be in a weekly rhythm of taking inventory and ordering. Make use of a PAR level system which will prevent you from running out of inventory.

Consumables

Consumables include your paper goods like cups, lids, straws, napkins, filters, etc. As well as receipt paper, printer paper, and anything else that will need to be continually replaced.

Cleaning supplies

Soaps, detergents, disinfectant sprays can be provided to you through services like CINTAS. Other cleaning agents like Cafiza will also need to be on hand for cleaning your coffee equipment.

Have more questions?

Though it is stressful and difficult, nothing is more satisfying than seeing your community excited to see you open and eager to support you. It’s a special feeling that we feel very lucky to have. If you have more questions that we didn’t answer here, feel free to reach out and ask!

If you’re in the process of opening a coffee shop, or even if you already have, we’d love to partner with you. Our wholesale program provides coffee as well as tea and we’ll help you navigate your barista training, which equipment to purchase, and answer any questions you may have about how to run a healthy business.

Apply to be a wholesale partner


 

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Running a Successful Fundraiser
Making a Difference with Every Cup At Ember Coffee, nestled in the heart of Big Lake, Minnesota, we're more than just your average coffee roasters near you. We're a community-focused hub dedicated to making a significant impact through our award-winning coffee. Our fundraising program is designed to support your goals, offering a unique way to raise funds while enjoying the rich, locally roasted coffee that you love. The Unique Appeal of Coffee Fundraising Why choose coffee for your next fundraiser? It's simple: coffee is a part of the daily routine for millions of people. This makes it not just convenient but also a highly effective fundraising product. Here’s why coffee stands out: Universal Appeal: Coffee is enjoyed by a vast audience every day, unlike seasonal or niche items. Everyday Staple: It integrates seamlessly into daily lives, making it a practical choice for supporters. Long Shelf Life: Unlike perishables, coffee maintains its quality over time, ensuring your fundraiser is stress-free regarding product handling. How Our Fundraising Program Works Partnering with Ember Coffee means you're set for a straightforward and impactful fundraising journey. Here’s how we make it happen: Simple Setup: We use Shopify to integrate sales processes smoothly, making management hassle-free. Support Materials: You’ll receive all the marketing materials and support needed to promote your fundraiser effectively. Transparent Pricing: We ensure clarity in pricing and profits, so there are no surprises along the way. Customization Options: Personalize your coffee labels to make each bag of coffee feel special to your supporters. Why Ember Coffee is Your Ideal Fundraising Partner Choosing Ember Coffee for your fundraiser isn’t just about selling coffee—it's about creating an experience and making an impact. Here’s what makes us stand out: Locally Roasted Perfection: Our coffee is roasted locally in Minnesota, ensuring every batch is fresh and flavorful. Ethical Sourcing: We prioritize ethical sourcing, ensuring that every cup provides not only pleasure but also peace of mind. Ongoing Support: Our team is here to guide you through each step, providing the tools and advice needed to maximize your success. A Step-by-Step Guide to Running an Effective Fundraiser To launch a successful fundraising campaign, consider these practical steps: Define Your Goals: Clearly articulate what you’re raising funds for. This clarity motivates and connects people to your cause. Build a Dedicated Team: Assign roles and responsibilities to ensure every aspect of your fundraiser is covered. Create a Timeline: Set deadlines for order placements and deliveries to keep your campaign on track. Promote Actively: Use social media, emails, and community events to spread the word effectively. Engage and Motivate: Keep your team motivated with incentives and regular updates to maintain high energy levels. Simplify Participation: An easy-to-navigate online store will make it straightforward for supporters to contribute. Year-Round Fundraising Strategies To keep the momentum going throughout the year, consider these strategies: Plan Ahead: Outline your main fundraising activities for the year to avoid last-minute planning. Vary Your Methods: Mix different types of fundraising activities to keep your audience engaged and interested. Leverage Seasonal Opportunities: Take advantage of specific times of the year that are conducive to fundraising. Keep Communicating: Regular updates keep your community involved and informed about your efforts. Show Appreciation: Always thank your supporters and share the outcomes of their contributions to reinforce trust and appreciation. Why This Matters At Ember Coffee, we believe in the power of community and the simple joy of a great cup of coffee. Our fundraising program is more than just an opportunity to raise money; it's a chance to bring people together, support local efforts in Minnesota, and enjoy some of the finest locally roasted coffee around. Ready to start your fundraising journey with us? Reach out to us today and let’s brew some success together!
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Brewing Community and Connection
The Essence of Specialty Coffee Coffee is more than just a caffeinated beverage. It’s a ritual, a conversation starter, and a bridge that connects people. At Ember Coffee, nestled in the heart of Big Lake, Minnesota, we believe in creating that connection through our locally roasted, award-winning coffee. Today, we want to delve into the importance of customer service in the specialty coffee industry, and how we strive to uphold it in spite of the growing trend towards automation. Since the birth of the coffee industry, customer service has been paramount. The evolution from consumers expecting their coffee to be roasted for them in the 1800s to the modern-day emphasis on freshness, quality, and craft, has transformed the way coffee shops engage with their customers. The rise of chains like Starbucks and Peet’s has put hospitality and service at the forefront of business operations, a trend that third wave and specialty coffee brands, like Ember Coffee, have embraced and built upon. However, the increasing adoption of automation in the industry presents a challenge. While new technologies streamline service, they also risk diluting the barista culture, a vital part of the specialty coffee experience. As Starbucks' recent strategy shift towards simpler menus and premium experiences demonstrates, coffee shops can't afford to sacrifice the customer experience for efficiency. In an article published by Perfect Daily Grind, Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood, the managing director of Colonna Coffee, and Laila Ghambari, the owner of Juniors Roasted Coffee and Guilder Café, discuss the complexities of offering exceptional customer service in the specialty coffee industry. The Art of Customer Service in Specialty Coffee In the world of specialty coffee, baristas are not just service providers; they are artisans. They dial in espresso, pour latte art, hand brew pour overs, and explain the nuances of extraction and flavor. This transforms coffee into more than just a product, creating an elevated sense of hospitality and enhancing the overall customer experience. However, as the industry expands and becomes increasingly competitive, offering exceptional service and serving high-quality coffee alone is no longer enough to retain a consumer base and attract new customers. Even Starbucks, a giant in the industry, has grappled with this challenge, as their sales dipped in key markets throughout 2023 and 2024. Specialty Coffee's Edge: Authenticity and Connection Despite the challenges, specialty coffee shops like Ember Coffee have an edge over bigger chains. Our commitment to artisanry, craft, and ethical sourcing signals to our customers that they are not just buying a product, but an experience. We believe in fostering intimate relationships with our customers, creating a personable service that larger coffee businesses often struggle to replicate. According to the Edelman Trust Barometer, 88% of consumers said trust is critical when deciding which brands to buy or use, with customer service a close second at 85%. This puts specialty coffee shops and roasters in a better position to navigate an increasingly challenging market. The Double-Edged Sword of Automation Automation has become a prominent part of the coffee industry. While it improves efficiency and resolves persistent problems such as staff training and barista shortages, it also risks eroding the artistry required to prepare and serve quality coffee. The increasing prominence of touchscreen kiosks and QR codes in restaurants and hospitality businesses might have improved efficiency, but it also risks creating a “faceless” business. As we move towards a more automated future, it's crucial for coffee shops to strike a balance between efficiency and hospitality. The face-to-face human connection that baristas provide proves critical for specialty coffee shops to stay true to their core values of hospitality. However, it’s only one part of a much wider customer experience. Navigating the Future of Customer Service in Specialty Coffee The rise of tech-driven solutions for coffee shops will undoubtedly improve efficiency, consistency, and speed of service. But with a challenging year ahead, coffee shops may choose to implement automation across the board, streamlining more than just coffee preparation. As Laila Ghambari rightly points out, "The future of customer service is not about sharing more information but investing in the experience that guests have, whether with a person or not." Digital hospitality will become more important, and customer service will continue evolving. At Ember Coffee, we are committed to navigating these changes without losing sight of what makes us unique. We understand that our customers don't just come to us for our award-winning, locally roasted coffee. They come to us for the conversations, the connections, and the community that we foster. And no matter how the industry evolves, that is something we will always strive to provide.
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Navigating the Coffee Crisis
A Minnesota Roaster's Perspective As the sun rises over the snowy landscape of Minnesota, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee wafts through the air at Ember Coffee's roastery. It's a scent that has become increasingly precious in recent months, as the coffee industry grapples with unprecedented challenges. As a local roaster deeply committed to our community, we want to share our journey through these turbulent times and our vision for the future. The Perfect Storm Brewing in Our Cups The story of today's coffee crisis begins far from our cozy Minnesota cafes, in the lush hillsides of Colombia and the vast plantations of Brazil. A series of events have converged to create what many in the industry are calling a "perfect storm": Climate Chaos: Mother Nature has not been kind to coffee growers lately. In Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer, severe droughts followed by unexpected frosts have decimated crops. Farmers watched helplessly as their carefully tended plants withered under the scorching sun or succumbed to the icy grip of frost. The result? A staggering 40% reduction in yields in some areas. Unseasonal Deluges: Meanwhile, in Vietnam, the second-largest coffee producer globally, unseasonal rains have wreaked havoc. Coffee cherries, which should have been ripening under gentle sunshine, instead rotted on the branches, leading to significant crop losses and quality issues. Geopolitical Jitters: As if weather woes weren't enough, the coffee market found itself caught in a political crossfire. In early 2025, rumors swirled about potential U.S. tariffs on Colombian coffee. Though never implemented, the mere whisper of trade restrictions sent prices soaring by 15% in just a week, highlighting the fragility of global coffee trade relationships. Supply Chain Snarls: The journey of coffee beans from farm to cup has become increasingly complex and costly. Ongoing logistical challenges, exacerbated by fuel price hikes and labor shortages, have inflated transportation costs. The price of shipping a container of coffee has tripled since 2023, adding another layer of pressure to already strained margins. Market Speculation: As news of crop failures and potential shortages spread like wildfire, market speculators pounced. Their actions drove coffee futures to unprecedented heights, with the C-market price for Arabica coffee reaching a jaw-dropping $3.84 per pound in February 2025 – a 47-year high. The Ripple Effect Reaches Minnesota Here at Ember Coffee, nestled in the heart of Minnesota's vibrant coffee scene, we've felt the tremors of these global shifts. The impact on our operations and community has been profound: Margin Squeeze: Green coffee now accounts for a staggering 60-70% of our production costs, up from 40-50% just two years ago. This dramatic increase, coupled with rising energy and labor costs, has put immense pressure on our margins. Sourcing Struggles: Maintaining the consistent flavor profiles our customers love has become increasingly challenging. We've had to be more flexible in our sourcing, sometimes substituting origins or adjusting roast profiles to compensate for changes in bean characteristics. Pricing Predicaments: As a community-focused roaster, we're acutely aware of the impact price increases have on our customers. We've been forced to make difficult decisions about when and how to adjust our pricing to reflect the new market realities while remaining accessible to our loyal patrons. Crafting a Sustainable Future, One Bean at a Time Despite these challenges, we at Ember Coffee believe that this crisis presents an opportunity for positive change. Like the phoenix rising from the ashes, we're determined to emerge stronger and more sustainable. Here's how we're adapting: Nurturing Direct Trade Relationships: We're doubling down on our direct trade partnerships, offering long-term contracts at stable prices to our farmer partners. This approach not only secures our access to high-quality beans but also provides farmers with the financial security to invest in sustainable practices and climate adaptation measures. Diversifying Our Offerings: To offset rising costs and keep things exciting for our customers, we're expanding our product range. Limited edition micro-lots, experimental processing methods, and unique Minnesota-inspired coffee blends are just a few of the innovations we're exploring. Empowering Through Education: We believe that an informed customer is a loyal customer. We've launched a series on Roasting 101 on our YouTube site, and we're planning a Coffee 101 cupping sessions at our Big Lake roastery. These programs help our community understand the complexities of coffee production and pricing, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft behind each cup. The Power of the Minnesota Coffee Lover As we navigate these challenges, the support and understanding of our customers are more crucial than ever. Here's how Minnesota coffee enthusiasts can contribute to a more sustainable coffee ecosystem: Embrace Transparency: We encourage our customers to ask questions about pricing, sourcing, and roasting practices. Understanding the true cost of producing exceptional coffee can help justify price adjustments when necessary. Value Quality Over Quantity: By choosing to invest in higher-quality, ethically sourced coffee, consumers can help support fair wages for farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Support Local Roasters: Minnesota's local roasters, like Ember Coffee, are deeply invested in our communities. By choosing local over national chains, consumers help keep money circulating in the local economy and support businesses that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing. Experiment with Brewing Methods: Different brewing methods can extract unique flavors from coffee beans. By exploring various brewing techniques, consumers can maximize the value and enjoyment they get from each bag of coffee. Envisioning a Brighter Future for Minnesota Coffee As we look to the horizon, we see challenges, but also immense potential. Our vision for the future of specialty coffee in Minnesota is one of resilience, innovation, and community: A More Resilient Supply Chain: We're exploring collaborations with other Minnesota roasters to potentially secure better prices and more stable supply chains through collective purchasing power. Increased Local Collaboration: We envision a future where coffee is increasingly integrated into Minnesota's local food scene. Imagine coffee-infused craft beers, chocolate truffles featuring our single-origin roasts, or seasonal menus at local restaurants built around coffee pairings. Innovation in Sustainability: We're investing in research on more sustainable packaging options and exploring ways to upcycle coffee chaff and other by-products of the roasting process. Our goal is to minimize our environmental impact while maximizing the value we create. A More Educated Consumer Base: Through continued education efforts, we aim to cultivate a community of coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship behind every cup and understand the global impact of their purchasing decisions. Conclusion: United in Our Love for Great Coffee As the aroma of freshly roasted coffee continues to fill our roastery, we're reminded of why we do what we do. The current coffee price crisis is undoubtedly one of the most significant challenges our industry has faced in decades. However, at Ember Coffee, we believe that by staying true to our values of quality, sustainability, and community, we can not only weather this storm but emerge stronger on the other side. To our loyal customers and coffee lovers across Minnesota: your support during these turbulent times means more than you know. Every bag of Ember Coffee you purchase, every latte you enjoy in our cafe, is a vote for a more sustainable and equitable coffee future. As we navigate these uncharted waters, we remain committed to transparency, quality, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect cup. Together, we can ensure that Minnesota remains a beacon of excellence in the world of specialty coffee, no matter what challenges lie ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey, for your understanding during these difficult times, and for your unwavering love of great coffee. Here's to many more shared moments over a steaming cup of Minnesota's finest brew. Warmly,The Ember Coffee Team
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