Coffee + Chocolate: A Timeless Pairing

A classic pairing, coffee and chocolate never go out of style. Keep things interesting with these tips.
by Robin Roenker | February 14, 2023

Takeaway Without the Trash: On Reusable To-Go Options

From mason jar meals to mug lending, a surge of new takeaway programs proves zero-waste to-go options are possible.
by Robin Roenker | July 5, 2022

A Call for Racial Equity

A look at how the coffee industry is taking a stand against racism and injustice, including through the formation of the Coffee Coalition for Racial Equity, which launched last month.
by Robin Roenker | November 2, 2020

Sustainable Sourcing

Five Pacific Northwest coffee companies share why their approach to sustainability begins by building fair relationships with farmers.
by Robin Roenker | April 1, 2020

Building a Mission-Focused Team

How can you find employees whose passions align with those of your café and roastery?
by Robin Roenker | January 22, 2020

The Power of Visual Messaging

In search of a way to succinctly convey your sustainability mission and approach to your customers? Consider a few carefully placed, well-designed signs.
by Robin Roenker | October 2, 2019

Integrating an Ideology

Across the country, many independent coffee and tea shops have embraced sustainability as part of their intrinsic brand. It’s a way of signaling to buyers, partners, and customers that they’re motivated by more than…
by Robin Roenker | August 21, 2019

The Last Plastic Straw: Berkeley, California, Adopts 25-cent Charge for Disposable Cups

In late January, the Berkeley City Council passed a new ordinance that’s become known as one of the most ambitious municipal environmental regulations enacted so far in the country. Learn more about the Disposable-Free…
by Robin Roenker | February 19, 2019

The Last Plastic Straw: Success with Stainless

Helping to eliminate waste with reusable stainless-steel straws
by Robin Roenker | November 26, 2018

The Last Plastic Straw: Backlot Coffee

Backlot Coffee switched from plastic straws to paper and stainless steel straws, and created a slew of new sustainable packaging merchandising opportunities.
by Robin Roenker | August 28, 2018