Laurie McMichael and David Mosher are the proud owners of Gros Morne Coffee Roasters, based in a warehouse in Deer Lake on the west coast of Newfoundland. The enticing aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans envelops the industrial park where the business operates. Inside, the bustling scene includes two roasters working at full capacity in the back of the shop, while the staff diligently package and label numerous bags of coffee.
Expressing their joy and fulfillment, McMichael shared with CBC News, “This venture has exceeded all our expectations, and we are thoroughly enjoying every moment. We have never experienced more satisfaction.” The couple’s journey to entrepreneurship took a significant turn about a decade ago after spending three decades working for various multinational corporations, energy firms, and the oil and gas industry. Their desire for a more purposeful and meaningful endeavor, as well as a wish to be closer to Mosher’s family in Newfoundland, led them to transition into the world of coffee roasting.
Their passion for coffee prompted them to start a small roasting business, initially operating from a shed in their backyard. Over time, the business flourished, prompting a move to a larger warehouse six years ago. McMichael described the warehouse as the hub where the entire coffee production process unfolds, from the arrival of the coffee beans to roasting, packaging, and shipping.
Gros Morne Coffee Roasters exclusively sources premium coffee beans from Ethiopia, Guatemala, Peru, and Colombia. They maintain close partnerships with small 1-hectare farms, establishing strong ties with the growers and their families. Mosher emphasized the significance of this connection, stating, “When we unpack the coffee sacks each morning, it’s a poignant moment for us to reflect on the individuals who sealed those bags in countries like Colombia or Guatemala, places we have grown to cherish. We truly feel connected to the farmers, as most of our coffee is sourced from small, family-owned farms.”
The company’s growth has been remarkable, with a 50% increase in the previous year. They have expanded their equipment, doubled their production capacity, and have plans to further extend their warehouse space. The turning point came around six years ago when Autumn Gale of the Hew & Draw Hotel in downtown Corner Brook sampled their coffee at a local Christmas market and reached out to the couple.
Recalling the pivotal moment, McMichael recounted, “She contacted us and expressed her desire to feature our coffee in every room of the new hotel they were opening. I turned to Dave and said, ‘We must seize this opportunity.'” Gros Morne Coffee now graces every hotel room with its French press coffee service, also making its way into the hotel’s restaurant and some specialty cocktails.
The positive reception from customers has been overwhelming, with Gale noting, “We receive an abundance of inquiries daily, almost every guest review mentions our coffee.” She highlighted the care and attention given to providing French press coffee in the rooms and the local touch appreciated by patrons.
From securing the hotel contract to a significant partnership with the Coleman family to distribute their products in all grocery stores, Gros Morne Coffee Roasters has experienced a surge in business. McMichael attributed their success to impeccable timing and a steadfast commitment to exceptional customer service and quality products. The company’s growth during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores their dedication to meeting customer needs.
The Gros Morne Coffee Roasters’ journey is a testament to passion, dedication, and a commitment to quality that has resonated with customers and fueled their remarkable success.