Big Island Coffee Roasters

Big Island Coffee Roasters was founded by Kelleigh Stewart and Brandon von Damitz, who began their journey in 2010 after purchasing a small, neglected coffee farm in the Puna region of Hawaii. Their initial years were spent learning the intricacies of coffee cultivation, processing, and roasting. The company’s breakthrough occurred in 2013 when their Puna Pink Bourbon won Grand Champion at the Hawaii Coffee Association Statewide Cupping Competition, marking the first time a Puna-grown coffee received this honor and helping to bring regional recognition to the area.

Following this success, the founders established the company in 2014, utilizing local grants to open the first coffee mill in East Hawaii. This infrastructure allowed them to process, grade, and roast coffee not only for their own farm but also for neighboring growers. This model was designed to address systemic issues in the Hawaiian coffee industry, including the prevalence of counterfeit Kona coffee and the abandonment of crops by farmers who lacked access to processing facilities or fair market representation.

Today, the company operates as a roaster, miller, and curator of Hawaiian coffees, sourcing beans from various regions across the islands, including Kona, Kaʻū, Hamakua, Maui, and Oahu. Their sourcing philosophy emphasizes direct relationships with farmers and a commitment to highlighting the diversity of Hawaiian terroir. By acting as a bridge between small-scale farmers and the global market, they aim to provide consumers with authentic, traceable Hawaiian coffee while supporting the economic viability of local agriculture.

Sustainability is a core component of their operations. The company’s roastery and mill are powered by 100% renewable electrical energy, and they utilize a rainwater catchment system for processing. On their own farm, they have replaced chemical weed management with sheep grazing. These efforts, combined with their focus on supply chain transparency, have earned them recognition such as the Progressive Grocer Impact Award for sustainability and traceability.

Beyond traditional whole-bean coffee, the company has gained attention for product innovation, most notably their "Espresso Bites," which won a Good Food Award. Their commitment to quality has also led to collaborations with high-end hospitality partners, such as the Four Seasons Hualalai, which was recognized for having the "World's Best Hotel Coffee" following a program overhaul led by the roaster.

As a business, Big Island Coffee Roasters has grown from a two-person operation to a team of over 25 employees. They maintain a roast-to-order model, shipping products directly from their Hawaii-based facility to customers worldwide. Their work continues to be defined by a focus on craft, community engagement, and the promotion of Hawaiian coffee regions that have historically been overshadowed by the more famous Kona district.