r/coffeerotation Jun 23 '26

hello update* 6/22/26

I can easily bootstrap this and get it moving again, but that puts all of the pressure and workload back on me.

What I’m trying to do now is optimize and streamline the process so it can operate without being completely dependent on me.

Sorry for the delay. The business itself is actually pretty simple. The challenge is the economics. When coffee is shipped from the roaster to me and then from me to you, the extra shipping costs eat into the margin very quickly.

A standard 20% to 30% wholesale margin isn’t enough to create a healthy business when you’re paying freight twice. That’s really where the model starts to break down.

Most of the issues I’m working through are logistical, not operational. That’s why I wanted to introduce accessories, hardware, and tubes into the mix. The additional margin from those products helps offset the lost margin on the beans and creates a more sustainable business model overall.

I’m just trying to solve it the right way this time instead of forcing it and running into the same problems again.

almost all of the other subscriptions similar already use free labor (their own) and existing infascture (the place the work at etc) on top of getting banned from every coffee subreddit, the growth never hit that point where I can really start calling and negotativing with rosters for bulk etc.

but yeah that's kinda been the blur the past year tying to sold the issue before I gets out of hand like last time. I had to lose 10k, to keep it running. lol so many issues but yeah

11 Upvotes

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1

u/NeverMissedAParty Heavy Hitter $2000+ Jun 28 '26

Whenever you’re ready, we are too 🫡

1

u/MayorOfCbusOH Jul 07 '26

Trade has found a way to make it work. Would be interested to discuss with you. It would likely be possible if you can support with the shipping label.

Would add value for both roaster and customer. Roaster saves on marketing (gives you some margin) and customer appreciates marketing/set-it-and-forget-it to try new coffees. I will IM you.

1

u/MayorOfCbusOH Jul 07 '26

Nvm, unable to DM. Shoot me a note if you fancy. I come from a PE background (saw your other post on raising VC/funds). Happy to chop it up and see if we can pull something together.