Rounton brews up subscription surge

A North Yorkshire coffee roaster is seeing rapid growth as demand for premium, ethically sourced coffee continues to rise.

Rounton Coffee has doubled subscriptions to its delivery service in just over a year, with around 100 new customers signing up each month. 

Founder David Beattie launched the model in 2020 to meet growing appetite for high-quality coffee at home.

The business, which began at local farmers’ markets in 2013, has since developed into a recognised regional brand, earning eight Great Taste Awards last year.

David, who swapped a career in chemical engineering to launch Rounton Coffee, said: “When Covid forced cafes and coffee shops to close, people pivoted and started brewing better quality at home.

“In lockdown, a good quality cup of coffee was one of the things people realised that they missed most. 

“It meant there was an unprecedented demand for every gadget going, but also the coffee itself.

“I think as more people are working from home, quality coffee has become a big part of their day, and I think people are becoming bolder and braver with their beans.

“We roast beans from across the coffee belt, but also from growers in less traditional places like China, and I think the subscription is a great way for people to dip their toes into different waters.

“Additionally, people are really busy, so I think having the peace of mind that their coffee will arrive at their doorstep gives them one less thing to think about.”

Growth has been driven in part by its Roaster’s Choice subscription, curated by head of coffee Jamiel El-Sharif, who samples hundreds of coffees annually to select standout varieties.

Based in the village of Rounton, the company now roasts up to a tonne of coffee each day as it continues to scale in response to sustained demand.

Jamiel added: “We’re constantly tasting and exploring new coffees to find something genuinely special and not just great flavour, but the story and people behind it.

“For our team, it is about building long-term relationships with producers, paying fairly, and championing their work.

“And if we can roast exceptional coffee while supporting the people who grow it, that’s what being a good coffee business is all about.”

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