Walk into any coffee shop today, and chances are you’ll see customers sipping lattes made with oat milk. Over the past decade, oat milk has emerged as the star player in the plant-based milk industry, earning its reputation as the top dairy alternative for coffee lovers. But with this meteoric rise comes an equally heated debate: is it fair for coffee shops to impose surcharges for oat milk? For small businesses, these charges are often tied to the elevated cost of plant-based milks. Yet for consumers, especially those lactose-intolerant or environmentally conscious, this added cost can feel discriminatory. This conversation is more than just about coffee preferences; it raises crucial questions about cost management, ethics, and customer loyalty in an evolving industry. At Ember Coffee, where we strive to offer the best coffee in Minnesota with sustainable practices and community-first values, this is a topic we deeply empathize with. Why Oat Milk Costs (and Means) More in Coffee Shops  The rise of oat milk in coffee shops has been nothing short of a phenomenon. Its journey from a niche dairy alternative to a standard offering has reshaped the way cafés cater to evolving consumer preferences. But while oat milk has cemented itself as a favorite, especially among specialty coffee lovers, few stop to consider why it often comes with a higher price tag. The answer lies in a complex web of economics and ethics that begins long before the milk is steamed and poured into your morning latte. The Rise of Oat Milk as a Coffee Staple Oat milk’s appeal is undeniable. Since 2017, it has gained a reputation as the perfect complement to coffee. Its neutral flavor and creamy consistency create a rich texture that enhances the coffee-drinking experience. Baristas, too, have embraced it. Unlike many other plant-based alternatives, oat milk integrates seamlessly into microfoam, making it an ideal choice for latte art and specialty drinks. Customers have noticed. A recent report by World Coffee Portal reveals that in the UK, oat milk is now the most popular non-dairy option, with nearly 28% of customers in branded coffee shops choosing it over other alternatives. Across the pond, oat milk has become so prominent that major U.S. coffee brands like Stumptown and Blue Bottle have made it their default milk option. Its success is no accident—oat milk has positioned itself as the go-to choice for those who want a better balance of taste, texture, and sustainability in their morning brew. The Hidden Costs of Oat Milk But this rise in popularity comes with a price, quite literally. Oat milk is often more expensive than dairy or other plant-based options, and this higher cost isn’t arbitrary. The economics behind oat milk production reflect a series of deliberate choices and challenges. For starters, there’s the production process itself. Unlike dairy, which has been standardized for decades, plant-based milks require extensive research and development to achieve a flavor and texture that appeals to consumers. Companies invest heavily in creating oat milk that froths perfectly, tastes neutral enough to pair with coffee, and remains shelf-stable for longer periods. These innovations don’t come cheap. Then there’s the sourcing of ingredients. Many premium oat milk brands pride themselves on using high-quality, ethically sourced oats. Some prioritize organic or gluten-free options, further adding to their value—and their cost. For cafés dedicated to providing the best possible product to their customers, these considerations are non-negotiable, even if they raise the price. Transportation and packaging also play a role. Many oat milk brands use eco-friendly packaging, such as Tetra Paks, which align with the sustainability values of their target market but inevitably increase overhead costs. Shipping these products to coffee shops, often from specialized suppliers, adds another layer of expense. Recent data from Mintec highlights the price disparity between plant-based and dairy milks, showing that retail prices for plant milks, including oat milk, are often double those of traditional dairy. While some coffee shops absorb these costs to maintain customer goodwill, others argue that surcharges on plant milks are necessary to stay competitive and maintain their profit margins. More Than Just Milk For many café owners, the decision to offer oat milk isn’t just about economics—it’s about aligning with customer values. Oat milk embodies the growing demand for sustainability, ethical sourcing, and high-quality ingredients, making it more than a mere substitute for dairy. Its popularity reflects a broader shift in how people approach their food and drink choices, prioritizing products that align with their ethics and lifestyle. So, the next time you order that oat milk latte and notice the extra charge, remember that it’s not just milk you’re paying for. It’s the research, the sourcing, the packaging, and the values behind the product. In an industry as competitive as specialty coffee, those few extra cents represent more than cost—they represent deliberate choices to meet the evolving expectations of today’s coffee drinker. What Do Customers Think?  The debate over plant milk surcharges has divided opinions among customers and businesses alike. While some view the added costs as a necessary part of business economics, others see them as an unfair barrier to accessibility. A recent poll conducted by Perfect Daily Grind revealed that 53% of respondents feel the charges for plant-based milk are justified, citing the higher production costs of alternatives like oat, almond, or soy milk. However, the remaining 47% either question the ethics behind these fees or strongly oppose them altogether, suggesting that the discussion is far from settled. Ethical Concerns on Accessibility One of the most compelling criticisms against plant milk surcharges centers on accessibility. For many consumers, plant-based alternatives are not just a trendy choice but a dietary necessity. Lactose intolerance affects a significant portion of the global population, and the statistics are particularly stark in communities of color. Research indicates that 90-100% of East Asians are lactose intolerant, along with high percentages in African, Indigenous, and Hispanic populations. For these groups, dairy milk isn’t an option—it’s an impossibility. This has led to growing frustration among consumers, who argue that surcharges unfairly target minorities and create financial roadblocks for those who rely on plant milks as an essential part of their diet. The controversy reached new heights when advocacy groups began criticizing Starbucks for continuing to charge extra for plant-based milk in the U.S., despite eliminating these surcharges in several European markets. Activists argue that such practices perpetuate "dietary racism," limiting access to affordable, inclusive food choices. This ethical dilemma has sparked debates across the coffee industry, forcing businesses to reconsider their pricing strategies. The Coffee Shop Dilemma For independent coffee shops, the issue of plant milk surcharges isn’t just about fairness—it’s about survival. Rising food and energy costs have driven up expenses across the board, leaving many small businesses with an impossible choice: absorb the extra costs of plant milk or pass them on to customers. For many, passing on the costs feels inevitable. Without the financial leverage of large corporations, these small businesses often operate on razor-thin profit margins. However, balancing business needs with customer expectations is no easy task. Charging an additional $0.50 to $0.80 for oat milk may seem like a small price to pay, but for price-sensitive consumers, it can feel alienating. Many independent coffee shop owners fear that these surcharges might drive loyal customers away, particularly as research from McKinsey shows that price increases impact plant milk sales more significantly than dairy. The challenge, then, is to find a pricing structure that covers costs without eroding trust or customer loyalty. Starbucks vs. Small Businesses The disparity between large chains like Starbucks and small, local coffee shops further complicates the debate. While Starbucks has faced criticism for its plant milk surcharges in the U.S., it has the resources and scale to eliminate these fees in European markets—a decision that some see as a step toward greater accessibility. Smaller coffee shops, however, don’t have the same luxury. Independent businesses, such as Minnesota-based Ember Coffee, often struggle to compete in a market dominated by big-name brands, all while managing their limited resources. For these small businesses, every cent counts. The decision to charge extra for plant milk isn’t rooted in greed but in necessity. Yet, as the public conversation about pricing ethics grows louder, even small coffee shops are being forced to examine how their policies align with their customers' expectations and values. In the end, the debate over plant milk surcharges is more than just a question of economics—it’s a reflection of the broader challenges facing the food and beverage industry. As customers demand more affordable, inclusive options, businesses must navigate the tricky balance between profitability and fairness, ensuring that their practices resonate with both their values and those of their communities. Thinking Beyond the Surcharge  The oat milk surcharge debate has sparked important conversations about inclusivity, sustainability, and business practices in the coffee industry. While the issue may seem simple on the surface, it presents an opportunity for businesses to rethink how they approach pricing and customer engagement in creative ways. Some forward-thinking coffee shops have already started experimenting with innovative solutions that go beyond the traditional surcharge model. One potential approach is to make oat milk the default option for all drinks. Chains like Blue Bottle and brands such as Minor Figures have explored this idea by slightly raising the overall price of their drinks, thereby eliminating the surcharge altogether while still maintaining reasonable profit margins. This small pricing adjustment simplifies the decision-making process for customers and makes plant-based choices feel more accessible and inclusive. By normalizing oat milk as the standard, these businesses are subtly encouraging a shift toward sustainability without alienating their customer base. Another strategy lies in reshaping how oat milk is marketed. Many customers are willing to pay extra when they feel a product aligns with their values. By highlighting features like “organic,” “sustainably sourced,” or “minimal ingredient,” coffee shops can elevate the perception of plant-based milks. This approach not only justifies premium pricing but also creates a sense of pride and purpose for customers, who see their purchase as supporting environmentally friendly practices. Inclusivity can also play a vital role in a business’s pricing policy. Instead of applying blanket surcharges, some coffee shops are considering ways to offer discounts to specific groups, such as students or communities with higher rates of lactose intolerance. By adopting pricing models that acknowledge the diverse needs of their customers, businesses can foster goodwill and build deeper connections with the communities they serve. This kind of thoughtful, inclusive pricing helps transform coffee shops into spaces that feel welcoming for everyone. Finally, reducing costs on the supply side can be an effective way to address the surcharge debate without affecting customer pricing. By negotiating better rates with suppliers or partnering on sustainable solutions, such as locally sourced oat milk, coffee shops can lower expenses while enhancing their commitment to the local community. This approach not only improves margins but also strengthens customer loyalty by tying the business to regional sustainability efforts. These creative strategies show that the oat milk surcharge debate is more than just a pricing issue—it’s a chance for businesses to lead with intention, adapt to evolving consumer values, and create a more inclusive and sustainable coffee culture. Where Does the Coffee Industry Go From Here?  The debate about oat milk surcharges won’t die down anytime soon, but it reflects a broader trend in consumer expectations for inclusivity, ethical practices, and transparency in business. Specialty coffee brands that address these concerns head-on will position themselves as community leaders well into the future. At Ember Coffee, we are committed to embedding ethical sourcing practices and transparent pricing into our philosophy. Whether you prefer oat milk, almond milk, dairy milk, or something else entirely, we believe coffee is for everyone. Want to experience the best coffee in Minnesota while sipping on your preferred milk option? Visit our shop in Big Lake, MN today to enjoy specialty coffee that aligns with your taste and values. This article is part of our effort to foster inclusive, high-quality coffee culture in Minnesota. For more insights on sustainable practices and advanced brewing techniques, check out *our research.*

A coffee roastery combines the art of craftsmanship and the science of precision, but it also presents a range of safety challenges. Whether you’re an artisan micro-roaster or managing a large-scale operation, creating a safe work environment is essential to ensure employee well-being and protect equipment.  From managing volatile compounds during roasting to preventing injuries from heavy lifting, minimizing hazards in a coffee roastery requires diligent planning, regular maintenance, and proper training. This article explores actionable strategies to reduce risks, improve air quality, and maintain safety in your roastery. Why Safety is Crucial in a Coffee Roastery  Operating a roastery is exciting but physically demanding. Burn risks, toxic fumes, and heavy lifting are only a few safety concerns. According to safety reports, poor air circulation in confined environments leads to long-term health risks, while improper handling of heavy sacks of green coffee can cause acute injuries. Why does safety matter? Because mishaps often affect more than just individuals; unchecked hazards can escalate, leading to productivity loss, reputational risk, or equipment damage. By understanding the specific risks involved in coffee roasting, you can implement systems that reduce injuries and create a safer, more efficient workplace. Common Hazards in Coffee Roasteries and How to Manage Them  Operating a coffee roastery is no small task. Beyond crafting the perfect roast, owners and operators must navigate a range of hazards to ensure a safe environment for their team. From airborne toxins to fire risks, here are six key challenges faced by roasteries—and how to tackle them effectively. Volatile Compounds and Airborne Hazards Roasting coffee is more than just heating beans; it releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs), fine particles, and chemicals like diacetyl and formaldehyde. Over time, exposure to these substances can cause serious respiratory conditions, such as bronchiolitis obliterans (commonly known as “popcorn lung”). Poor ventilation can also lead to dangerous levels of carcinogens like benzene, posing significant long-term health risks. To mitigate these hazards, ventilation is critical. Installing systems like air filtration or catalytic ventilation can help capture and eliminate harmful compounds. Pair this with air quality monitors to keep pollutant levels in check and ensure staff are equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators, for an added layer of safety. Burn Risks from High-Temperature Equipment Roasting machines run at extremely high temperatures—up to 428°F (220°C). Even brief contact with such hot surfaces can cause severe burns. Whether it’s the roasting equipment, cooling trays, or chaff collectors, the risk of injury is constant. To protect employees, provide them with heat-resistant gloves and aprons. Establish clear operating procedures (SOPs) to prevent accidents and train staff on safe practices when working around hot equipment. Heavy Lifting and Ergonomics Handling sacks of green coffee beans, which can weigh between 110 and 154 lbs (50–70 kg), is physically demanding and can lead to musculoskeletal injuries if not done correctly. Improper lifting techniques or repetitive strain can cause lasting harm to employees. This is where equipment and training come into play. Lifting aids like pallet jacks or hoists can reduce strain on workers, while proper training on lifting techniques is essential to prevent injuries. Rotating tasks among employees can also help limit how often heavy loads are handled during a single shift. Smoke, Odors, and Poor Ventilation Roasteries without adequate air circulation often face the compounding effects of smoke, odors, and VOCs, making the workspace uncomfortable and potentially harmful over time. Smaller roasteries are especially vulnerable, as limited ventilation can quickly lead to poor air quality. Investing in a robust ventilation system tailored to the size of your operation is key. Regular maintenance of filters and ventilation equipment will keep air quality optimal. Additionally, staggering roasting times or scheduling downtime can prevent overlapping processes from overwhelming the air. Fire Hazards from Neglected Maintenance Fire is one of the most significant risks in a coffee roastery. Chaff, grease, and debris can quickly accumulate in roasting machines, air ducts, or chaff collectors. Without regular cleaning and maintenance, this buildup can ignite, leading to potentially devastating fires. To reduce fire risks, cleaning routines should be non-negotiable. Ensure all parts of the machine, from ducts to collectors, are maintained regularly. Flame detectors and fire extinguishers should be installed in key areas, and all employees should receive fire safety training to know how to react in an emergency. Lack of Comprehensive Training The importance of proper training can’t be overstated. An undertrained team may misuse equipment, ignore safety protocols, or fail to act appropriately in emergencies. These gaps in knowledge can lead to accidents and injuries. Creating a thorough onboarding program is a great starting point. Cover everything from safe equipment usage to emergency procedures and chemical handling. Regular refresher courses and safety audits will ensure that protocols are followed and employees stay informed. Creating a Safer Workspace for Your Roastery  Running a roastery comes with unique challenges, but creating a safe environment doesn’t have to be one of them. From advanced ventilation systems to proper maintenance and safety equipment, there are practical steps you can take to protect your team and ensure smooth operations. The Role of Ventilation Air quality control is crucial in reducing exposure to hazardous emissions, especially in smaller roasteries where space is limited. Compact yet powerful ventilation systems can provide efficient air filtration without dominating your workspace. Modern systems equipped with catalytic purification and high-temperature decomposition technology can eliminate up to 99% of VOCs. Plus, self-cleaning features minimize maintenance and extend the system’s lifespan, making them both practical and effective for small-scale operations. The Importance of Maintenance A safe roastery runs on good maintenance habits. Regular upkeep not only reduces fire risks but also keeps equipment running smoothly. Following a simple monthly checklist can go a long way: clean chaff collectors, ducts, and cooling trays; check for grease buildup near burners or vents; inspect ventilation systems for blockages; and replace any worn-out personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves or goggles. Consistency in maintenance is key to keeping your team safe and your roastery efficient. Equipping Your Team The right protective gear can make all the difference. Heat-resistant gloves and protective aprons are essential to prevent burns, while N95 respirators protect against fine particles during roasting. Steel-toe shoes add an extra layer of safety for moving heavy loads. Stocking your roastery with these essentials ensures your team can focus on their tasks without unnecessary risks. Safety Through Education A culture of safety starts with knowledge. Empower your team by offering workshops on safe lifting techniques and proper posture. Provide tutorials on machine mechanics and emergency troubleshooting. Supplement these efforts with videos and manuals tailored to your specific roasting equipment. When your team understands the why behind safety practices, they’re more likely to embrace them. By taking these steps, you can create a workspace that not only prioritizes safety but also supports productivity and peace of mind for everyone involved. Building a Safe and Thriving Roastery  Safety isn’t just about compliance; it’s about fostering a workspace where employees feel valued, comfortable, and empowered. A secure environment leads to higher productivity, fewer injuries, and ultimately better coffee quality.  Together, we can make your roastery a model of excellence for the coffee community.  A safe roastery isn’t just good business; it’s essential. Reach out to us today to safeguard your employees, your craft, and your reputation. Contact Us for Consultation

Why do some coffee shops thrive while others struggle to keep their doors open? Surprisingly, it’s not always about location, product quality, or pricing. While these factors certainly play a role, an often-overlooked yet critical element is clarity. Clear communication, well-defined roles, and structured workflows can make or break a coffee shop's ability to operate smoothly. Without clarity, even the best products and locations can’t overcome miscommunication and operational chaos. For coffee shop owners in Minnesota and beyond, role clarity isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a game-changer that can transform daily operations. When staff understand their responsibilities and workflows are streamlined, efficiency skyrockets. Baristas aren’t tripping over each other behind the counter, orders are processed faster, and customers leave satisfied. This clarity also creates a better work environment, as employees feel confident in their roles and less stressed by confusion or overlap. Over time, these improvements lead to happier teams, loyal customers, and a stronger bottom line. By prioritizing role clarity, coffee shop owners can move beyond survival mode and create an exceptional experience for both employees and customers alike. What’s Holding Back Small Coffee Businesses? Running a coffee shop is no easy task. Picture the hustle of a busy morning rush—the line out the door, the hum of espresso machines, and the constant juggling of orders. Amid the energy, challenges like high operational costs and wasted labor can quickly eat into profits. A stretched-thin team without clear roles often leads to burnout, while delays and missed orders risk driving loyal customers to find their caffeine fix elsewhere. As you dream of growing—maybe opening that second or third location—the hurdles multiply. Without clear systems in place, replicating success feels impossible. And as the owner, staying buried in daily tasks leaves little time to focus on the big picture. For coffee shops—whether you serve local roasted coffee or a specialty grade coffee brand like Ember—it’s crucial to streamline operations to thrive in a competitive market. Customers seeking the best coffee in MN expect consistency, speed, and quality with every visit. These challenges are common, but with the right tools and systems, you can transform the chaos into a smooth, well-oiled machine. Could this overlooked solution be the key to your success?? Why Clarity Matters in Coffee Shop Operations Clarity reduces inefficiencies, prevents burnout, and fosters accountability—allowing your business to run smoothly and your team to stay focused on what matters most. The Ripple Effects of Unclear Roles: Double Work: Imagine two baristas cleaning the espresso machine at the same time while no one is refilling milk jugs or preparing to-go orders. Overlapping effort wastes valuable time and resources. Service Delays: When no one knows who’s responsible for restocking key items, supplies run out at the wrong time. This creates bottlenecks during rush hours. Employee Burnout: Without defined expectations, employees feel lost and overburdened. Frequent role ambiguity leads to dissatisfaction, disengagement, and turnover. Missed Accountability: If everyone assumes “someone else will do it,” critical tasks fall through the cracks. The antidote? A Responsibility Matrix. Meet the Responsibility Matrix A Responsibility Matrix is a straightforward yet highly effective tool to clarify roles, eliminate confusion, boost efficiency, and empower teams to perform at their best. By clearly mapping out who handles what, it ensures everyone knows their responsibilities, promoting smoother operations and better teamwork. How to Build an Effective Responsibility Matrix: 1. Identify Routine Tasks Start by listing all the routine tasks that need to be completed on a regular basis. Be as detailed as possible to ensure nothing is overlooked. Common examples might include: Brewing and restocking coffee for staff and customers. Cleaning and maintaining equipment to keep operations running smoothly. Managing inventory to prevent shortages or overstocking. Providing excellent customer service during peak hours to enhance the overall experience. Consider tasks specific to your team or organization and include them in your list. The goal is to ensure all necessary duties are accounted for. 2. Assign Primary Ownership Assign a primary person responsible for each task. This person will take full ownership and ensure the task is completed consistently and effectively. Clear role assignments help eliminate uncertainty, allowing employees to work confidently and with a sense of accountability. When every team member knows exactly what they’re in charge of, the entire operation runs more smoothly. 3. Designate Backup Coverage To maintain seamless operations, assign a backup person for every task. This ensures that if the primary owner is unavailable—due to illness, vacation, or another unforeseen circumstance—the task will still be handled without disruption. Backup coverage is especially critical for high-priority and time-sensitive tasks that can’t afford delays. 4. Review and Update Regularly A Responsibility Matrix should not be static. As your team evolves or priorities shift, regularly review and update the matrix to reflect these changes. This ensures everyone stays aligned with current responsibilities and allows for adjustments as needed. By following these steps, you can create a Responsibility Matrix that not only improves clarity and efficiency but also fosters a more cohesive and empowered team environment.. Example Responsibility Matrix: Keep the matrix visible for quick reference and shared accountability. Update it regularly as team dynamics or operational needs evolve. Case Study in Clarity: How Cat & Cloud Coffee Brews Success Through Role Clarity At first glance, Cat & Cloud Coffee may seem like just another specialty coffee shop, but behind the counter, there’s a philosophy driving their success: role clarity. Co-founder Chris Baca believes that a thriving business starts with employees who truly understand their purpose. As he puts it, "We believe people want to do meaningful work. But to do that, they need to understand why their work matters." For Cat & Cloud, this meant taking a step back and reevaluating how their team viewed their roles. Instead of seeing daily tasks as just checking off boxes, they focused on helping employees see the bigger picture—how their work directly contributed to the company’s mission and success. Baristas weren’t just making lattes; they were creating moments, building relationships, and representing the brand’s values with every customer interaction. This shift empowered team members to take pride in their roles, transforming ordinary jobs into fulfilling careers. The results were remarkable. Employees became more engaged and motivated, which translated into an energized workplace and exceptional customer service. Customers noticed the difference too—interactions felt more genuine, service became more memorable, and Cat & Cloud’s reputation flourished. Team morale soared as employees felt valued and connected to a greater purpose. What’s even more inspiring is that this approach isn’t exclusive to coffee shops. Any business, regardless of industry, can benefit from focusing on role clarity. By helping employees understand how their work aligns with broader goals, companies can unlock higher levels of engagement, loyalty, and performance. Cat & Cloud’s story is a testament to the power of clarity—not just in communication but in the way businesses operate. It’s proof that when people know why their work matters, they’re not just employees—they’re invested contributors to something bigger.. Unlock the Power of Role Clarity Establishing clear roles and structured operations can transform your business, offering significant advantages: 1. Boost Team Efficiency When tasks are clearly defined and assigned, your team knows exactly what is expected of them. This eliminates confusion, reduces downtime, and keeps everyone focused on their responsibilities. Teams can collaborate more effectively, ensuring smoother workflows and better overall productivity. 2. Ensure Consistency Across All Locations Having defined processes and procedures guarantees a uniform experience for your customers, regardless of where they engage with your business. This is especially important if you’re scaling operations or managing multiple locations. Consistency builds customer trust and loyalty, setting a solid foundation for growth. 3. Enhance Employee Morale and Engagement When employees clearly understand their roles and responsibilities, they feel valued and empowered. This clarity fosters confidence, reduces workplace stress, and helps your team work with greater purpose. As a result, job satisfaction increases, leading to lower turnover and a more committed workforce. 4. Establish Accountability at Every Level Role clarity eliminates guesswork, ensuring that every team member knows their duties and who they report to. This transparency promotes a culture of accountability, where everyone takes ownership of their work. By reducing miscommunication and errors, you create a more proactive and frustration-free environment. Investing in role clarity not only optimizes day-to-day operations but also creates a stronger, more cohesive team prepared to drive your business forward.. Best Practices for Implementing Clarity What to Do: Start Small: Begin with the key pain points, such as inventory checks or opening/closing duties. Celebrate Contributions: Show employees how their work supports the whole operation to foster a sense of purpose. Iterate as You Grow: Businesses evolve, so regularly update roles and responsibilities. What to Avoid: Micromanaging: Set clear expectations but trust your team to execute. Empowerment, not control, is the goal. Excessive Complexity: Don’t overcomplicate your SOPs. Simple, actionable instructions are far more effective. Neglecting Input: Collaborate with employees when creating or modifying their roles to ensure a smoother adoption. Remove the Chaos. Add the Clarity. Your coffee shop’s success isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter. By fostering clarity, you empower your team, improve operations, and build an environment where employees and customers thrive. Are you ready to transform your coffee shop? Contact us today for a free coaching session. Together, we’ll take your café from chaos to clarity, one cup at a time.