Doomer/Coffee Addicts: I sold businesses in 1998 and have a small stash(<$1Mil). With nothing to do/too young/not enough $ to retire, I continually look for something to do. An old/sick gentleman w/ real small roaster business (<200 mail-order customers) continues to service them out of obligation. Really needs someone to pick up the duty. My question: Are raw coffee beans a good commodity to invest in? I can store them long-term and buy the roasting equipment for little to nothing. Perhaps w/ bill board on I84 I can increase market one customer at a time. Your opinions are appreciated.

-- Anonymous, February 03, 2001

Answers

Gary,

I've already given the short answer by email. Like I said there, if you decide to try it and want to expand your business, I'll give you a plug on the website. :)

As far as I'm concerned (and I'm sure Tarzan and FutureShock will agree), there's always room for another good coffee roast.[g]

Speaking of which ... unless you've already gotten the hang of roasting, you are prepared to burn a few loads of beans learning how to run the machine, I hope? Roasting is more art than science.

Best of luck if you decide to do it. Ten years from now, when Gary's Choice becomes a nationwide phenomenon and you become rich and famous, remember us liddle peeples. :)

-- Anonymous, February 03, 2001

As Poole said, I agree there is always room for one more. You may want to look at hiring a good roaster. Depending on where you are, it may not be that expensive. I would suggest joinning the specialty coffee association; I am sure they would help you in a number of ways.

You do not necessarily want to store the beans long term; they will rot just like any other commodity. Freshness does count. If you buy a good quality been you can also sell green beans for those who do their own roasting.

Best of luck.

-- Anonymous, February 05, 2001