Valentine Coffee Co.
5918 W. Vliet St., Milwaukee • www.valentinecoffeeco.com
Year Founded: 2009
Product or Service Offered: Roasters of specialty-grade coffee
Founder & CEO: Robb Kashevarof
Partner & COO: Joe Gilsdorf
Projected 2016 Revenue: 35 percent growth
Target Clientele: Anyone with discerning taste in coffee, food and wine.
Business Organization Memberships: Specialty Coffee Association of America, Roasters Guild, Wauwatosa Chamber of Commerce, American Indian Chamber of Commerce
What has fueled your company’s growth?
“The specialty coffee industry continues to be a strong growth market. Our uncompromising attention to quality and responsibly sourced, farmed and roasted coffee has anchored our philosophy. We are fortunate and appreciative that our efforts are recognized by the consumer as we continue to grow organically.”
What is the biggest obstacle to your company’s growth?
“Keeping up with capital and human resource needs.”
Do you plan to make any changes to your company?
“We will continue to improve quality standards while increasing our retail presence and wholesale reach.”
Who are the business people you admire and why?
“Joe Bartolotta has been a continued mentor for us.”
What is the outlook for your industry?
“Healthy. Specialty coffee is maintaining robust growth, with commensurate competition.”
What is your company’s most important growth strategy?
“Protecting the integrity of our product and maintaining our high level of customer service. In other words, continuing to deliver consistently delicious coffee.”
