Reverie Roasters

Reverie Roasters was established in 2013 in Wichita, Kansas, by founder Andrew Gough. Initially conceived as a wholesale-only operation, the business began in a small upstairs loft with a bar intended primarily to showcase roasts. However, the company quickly pivoted to meet consumer demand for a dedicated cafe environment, evolving into a prominent fixture in the local coffee scene. By 2023, the company celebrated its tenth anniversary, having expanded its footprint to include multiple cafe locations in Wichita and Newton, Kansas, while maintaining its core wholesale roasting operations.

The company’s operational philosophy centers on the concept of coffee as a medium for community connection. Gough, who transitioned into the coffee industry from a background in retirement education, has structured the business to serve as a 'middle group' in the coffee value chain. This approach prioritizes the human element of the supply chain, aiming to bridge the gap between coffee farmers and the end consumer through intentional interaction and storytelling.

Reverie’s sourcing and production practices are guided by rigorous protocols designed to ensure quality and transparency. The roastery offers a variety of single-origin coffees and signature blends, such as their 'Boneshaker Espresso.' Beyond the product itself, the company emphasizes the importance of the coffee bag and overall branding as tools to communicate the journey from farm to cup, a commitment that has been recognized by industry organizations like the Specialty Coffee Association for excellence in packaging design.

In practice, the business operates as a multifaceted food and beverage entity. While the wholesale division supplies coffee to various businesses and retailers, the retail cafe arm has grown to become a significant portion of the company's revenue. These spaces are designed to function as community hubs, providing environments for work, social interaction, and professional meetings, which aligns with the company's stated mission of fostering positive community impact.

The company’s leadership remains active in the broader coffee discourse, with Gough frequently engaging in discussions regarding the challenges and opportunities within the food service industry. This includes efforts to improve the narrative surrounding service-sector employment and the development of systems that support work-life balance for staff members. The team is characterized by a diverse range of interests, including fermentation science and literature, which informs their approach to coffee education and customer service.

As of recent years, Reverie Roasters continues to refine its presence in the Midwest, balancing its growth as a multi-location retailer with its foundational wholesale business. The company’s trajectory reflects a shift from a singular focus on roasting to a more integrated model that prioritizes the cafe experience as a primary driver of community engagement and business sustainability.