Black Sheep Coffee

Black Sheep Coffee was established in 2013 by Gabriel Shohet and Eirik Holth, who were university flatmates at the University of St Andrews. The founders launched the business with a mission to 'leave the herd behind' and challenge the status quo of the specialty coffee industry, which they perceived as dominated by conventional Arabica offerings. Their early growth was supported by a 2014 Kickstarter campaign that raised £23,000, setting the stage for a rapid expansion that has since seen the company grow to over 140 locations worldwide, including sites in the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Middle East.

The company is most notably recognized for its 'Robusta Revival' initiative, which positions it as one of the few specialty coffee retailers to utilize 100% specialty-grade Robusta beans as a house espresso. By prioritizing Robusta, the company seeks to offer a higher caffeine content and a distinct flavor profile that deviates from the standard Arabica-heavy market. This focus on Robusta is central to their brand identity and their stated goal of ridding the world of what they describe as 'boring, average tasting coffee.'

Beyond its signature espresso, Black Sheep Coffee has diversified its menu to include items such as the 'Black Hoof'—a coffee drink prepared with organic coconut oil—as well as ceremonial-grade matcha, organic smoothies, and Norwegian waffles. The company operates with a business model that emphasizes an immersive, urban retail experience, often utilizing technology to manage loyalty programs and customer engagement through a dedicated mobile application.

Sourcing and sustainability are cited as core components of their operational philosophy. The company reports that it engages in direct trade with plantations, aiming to ensure that the picking, drying, and washing processes adhere to strict quality and environmental guidelines. This approach is intended to create a sustainable model that supports the environment and the producers involved in the supply chain, though the company remains primarily focused on its retail-led expansion strategy.

Financially, the company has seen significant investment, including a £13 million funding round in 2019 that brought its total raised capital to £19 million at that time, valuing the business at over £100 million. This capital has fueled its aggressive growth, including the acquisition of store locations from competitors such as Taylor St Baristas. The company continues to be led by its co-founders, with Gabriel Shohet actively overseeing international expansion efforts, particularly in the United States.

It is important to note that the name 'Black Sheep Coffee' is also used by unrelated entities, such as Black Sheep Coffee Roasters based in Bishop, California. Founded in 2004 by Peter Schultz, this separate business operates as a distinct roasting company focused on direct-trade, artisan-quality coffee in the Owens Valley. Readers should distinguish between the large-scale British-based chain and smaller, independent roasters that may share similar branding.