There are an incredible number of tasks associated with running a coffee roastery. The busy work of keeping things going often gets in the way of working on the main areas that will actually move the needle and build a successful operation.

Today's guest comes to us with a lot of experience working in roasteries and consulting operators in the areas that he has identified as "The Core 7" essential areas of roastery operations. I fact, he has written a whol book about it!

Today on this 34th episode of Rate of Rise, brought to you by our friends at Mill City Roasters, we are talking with Luke Waite of Pomelo Coffee Consulting!

Luke Waite is the founder and principal consultant of Pomelo Coffee Consulting and the creator of the Core 7, a framework designed to help coffee roasters achieve lasting success. His background includes transforming struggling cafés, cold brew companies, and coffee roasters into efficient, profitable, and sustainable businesses. In 2024, he launched Junto, a peer-driven coaching group for roastery owners that fosters growth through camaraderie, feedback, and accountability.

Luke is a seasoned public speaker, regularly presenting at the Specialty Coffee Expo, regional coffee festivals, and to groups of international coffee professionals. He also serves on the management committee for the Coffee Writers Guild, advocating for writers' ethics and journalistic integrity in coffee writing.

His book on the Core 7, offers a practical guide to help roastery owners effectively manage their businesses. Endorsed by industry veterans, the book is set for a summer 2025 release and is available for pre-order!

Links:

Related episodes:

• 416 : People-First Principles for Growing Your Shop w/ Mike McFall of Biggby Coffee
• 361: Managing Roastery Relationships and Logistics w/ Corey Turner of Andytown Coffee Roasters
• 328 : Relationships and Resiliency w/ Xavier Alexander of Metric Coffee

Our Sponsor for Rate of Rise!

www.millcityroasters.com