In this episode of Ristretto, Mark Inman interviews Martell Mason from the Sepia Coffee Project at the SCA Expo in Houston. They discuss Martell's journey from coffee trading to establishing a roastery in Detroit, the challenges of navigating market volatility, and the importance of community engagement in the coffee industry. Martell shares insights on sourcing diverse coffee and emphasizes the need for transparency and connection.

Episode Notes

• Sepia Coffee Project is a black-owned roastery in Detroit.
• Martell Mason transitioned from coffee trading to roasting during the pandemic.
• The coffee market is volatile, but staying focused is key.
• Building relationships in the coffee community is essential.
• Transparency with partners helps navigate market challenges.
• Detroit has a growing coffee market with many opportunities.
• Sourcing diverse coffee blends is important for differentiation.
• Small businesses should prioritize their core offerings.
• Don't panic; take time to understand the market.
• Community engagement is vital for the success of coffee businesses.

Explore More of The Exchange