787 Coffee – Brewing Success Through Sustainability and Community

787 Coffee Profile

In the bustling specialty coffee market, 787 Coffee distinguishes itself with its Puerto Rican roots, premium beans, and a business model built on sustainability and community impact. From a single farm in Puerto Rico to a growing footprint in New York and beyond, 787 Coffee blends financial savvy with a mission-driven ethos, creating a brand that’s as profitable as it is purposeful.

People: Visionary Leadership with a Community Focus

The driving force behind 787 Coffee is its co-founders, Brandon Ivan Pena and Sam Sepulveda. Pena, an entrepreneur with a knack for innovation, and Sepulveda, an operations expert, share a vision that transcends coffee—they aim to uplift communities and champion sustainability. Their leadership philosophy, rooted in continuous learning (as Pena has said, “To grow as a leader is to grow as a learner”), has fostered a team dedicated to quality and fairness. From farmers at their Puerto Rican farm to baristas in urban shops, 787 Coffee prioritizes fair wages and a supportive culture, aligning human capital with their mission.

Process: A Sustainable, Farm-to-Cup Model

787 Coffee’s farm-to-cup approach sets it apart. Their coffee is grown, processed, and roasted at Hacienda Iluminada in Maricao, Puerto Rico, ensuring complete control over quality and sustainability. By avoiding chemicals and partnering with local farms that share their eco-friendly ethos, they minimize environmental impact while maximizing flavor. Innovations like rum and whiskey-infused beans add a unique twist to their offerings. Financially, this vertical integration cuts supply chain costs stabilizes pricing, and boosts margins. Their online store and subscription service further enhance efficiency, generating steady, recurring revenue—a smart move for long-term financial health.

Performance: Steady Growth with a Local Impact

787 Coffee’s expansion reflects its robust business strategy. What began on one farm has grown into 18 locations in New York City, two in El Paso, Texas, and four in Puerto Rico. Their e-commerce platform and subscription model have broadened their customer base, tapping into demand for premium, ethically sourced coffee. While exact financials aren’t public, their multi-city presence and partnerships with brands like Apple and Sephora signal strong revenue streams and operational success. Recognition from outlets like Inc. Magazine and Fast Company highlights their market traction, pointing to a business that’s both scalable and resilient.

A Blueprint for Sustainable Success

787 Coffee proves that profitability and purpose can coexist. With passionate leadership, a streamlined process, and impressive growth, they’ve crafted a recipe for success that prioritizes quality, sustainability, and community. As they expand, 787 Coffee offers a compelling model for how to build a financially sound business without losing sight of what matters most.