I have an exciting update to share!
Over the last several years, as I approach a big birthday with a zero on it, I've considered the most responsible way for me to retire while maintaining the momentum, vision and mission of Vienna Coffee Company (VCC). I'm pleased to share that we've found a compelling solution within our own family.
Sue, my wife, and I look forward to traveling and enjoying our time as grandparents. At the same time, we deeply value the relationships and the legacy of our local company we’ve built over twenty plus years. We recognize the importance of preserving our partnerships with each of you. I am steadfast in my commitment to ensure Vienna Coffee Co. continues to be innovative, to serve as your local Specialty Coffee roastery and to seek out and roast the highest quality coffee, right here in Maryville.
As many of you know, my daughter, Jamie's husband, Les Stoneham, is also deeply involved in Specialty Coffee. Les, along with his four partners in Deeper Roots Coffee operate a successful, highly respected coffee company of similar scope and size in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Elliot, Les, John, and Ryan at the roastery in 2016
Sue, John, Julio, and Les at De la Gente cupping lab in San Miguel, Guatemela
John, Les, and Julio at the beneficio they helped build and fund in Santa Maria de Jesus, Guatemala
Les and his four partners are stepping forward to invest in and become the new majority owners of VCC. Les will be our CEO. He brings extensive coffee and business experience. We have already been working side-by-side with Deeper Roots for over ten years through shared sourcing of green coffee beans and collaborating on roasting profiles and styles. Les even trained our first baristas for the Vienna Coffee House in 2010.
We also have Kelly Wiggins stepping forward in Maryville as Chief of Operations to strengthen our local leadership. An established part of the VCC staff for two years, Kelly is a native of Maryville and brings multi-dimensional business leadership experience from her corporate and non-profit experience.
Kelly's passion for her East Tennessee hometown and determination to remain a strong LOCAL brand mirror my intent for VCC.
While I do retain partial ownership of VCC, this investment by Les and his partners (Ryan Doan, Jon Lewis, Courtney Robinson, Adam Shaw) at Deeper Roots strengthens our potential for continued growth. I am excited about the opportunities their shared enthusiasm, experience and expertise will contribute to the sustainability of VCC and to your success.
Adam, Sue, Les, Courtney, Ryan, and Jon and the Clark residence bringing the two coffee families together.
Ryan Doan, Jon Lewis, Courtney Robinson, Adam Shaw, and Les Stoneham at the coffee roasterie in Cincinnati, Ohio
Whether you brew your favorite VCC coffee for home, or enjoy a cup with friends at our coffee shop, I want to personally thank you for being a part of Vienna Coffee Co’s growth over the last 21 years.
You will still see me around the Vienna Coffee House, the Roastery, or representing Vienna Coffee in the community and on social media. However, please join me in extending a welcoming hand to Les, Adam, Courtney, Jon, and Ryan, the new members of our VCC family.
Sincerely,
John Clark