Local specialty coffee roaster Denim Coffee is a testament to the spirit of local entrepreneurship and dedication to craft. Founded 12 years ago by Matt and Kristin Ramsay along with Tony Diehl, Denim Coffee has not just been brewing coffee; it’s been brewing success.
The company’s journey to elevate coffee experiences recently marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its new 30,000-square-foot headquarters in Chambersburg. What was once an ice factory and fallout shelter now features the aroma of freshly roasted beans and the buzz of innovation.
The new headquarters isn’t just a space for operations; it’s a testament to Denim Coffee’s commitment to growth and excellence. With state-of-the-art facilities, including a tasting/training room, roasting and production space, flash chilled coffee production operations, and a commercial kitchen for their bakery, Denim Coffee is poised for further expansion.
One of the highlights of the company’s recent growth is the introduction of its Flash Chilled Coffee line, evidence of its relentless pursuit of better coffee. “I first tasted flash chilled coffee at Coffee Fest Boston and was blown away by how superior it was to any cold brew coffee option that I have tried,” says Matt. “I knew instantly that flash chilled was the path forward for better cold coffee.” Matt embarked on an 18-month journey to crack the code for flash-chilling coffee at scale. The company’s new headquarters is outfitted with equipment to brew hot coffee and chill it to 40 degrees in under 30 seconds. Once chilled, the coffee is kegged and purged with nitrogen, preserving its vibrancy and freshness for months.
Denim’s Flash Chilled Coffee, served on draft and nitro at their coffee shops, has garnered rave reviews. Plans are underway to introduce a canning line, unlocking new avenues of growth for this innovative product.
Moreover, Denim Coffee has upgraded its roasting capabilities with the installation of a new IMF Roaster and silos, enhancing efficiency and precision in their craft. “We now have unprecedented control over our roasts, ensuring consistency and quality,” says Matt.
Denim Coffee’s success isn’t just confined to its operations; it’s deeply intertwined in the local community with five existing retail coffee shops in Chambersburg, downtown Carlisle, Dickinson College, Mechanicsburg, and Harrisburg. “We love the Cumberland Valley. We feel it is a crossroads of rural and urban. We are thrilled to add our piece to the rich tapestry of art, culture, and food available throughout the region,” says Matt.
Denim’s Carlisle and Mechanicsburg locations participate in the seasonal Cumberland Valley Coffee & Chocolate Trail, giving them an even greater opportunity to share their passion “to make better coffee” with residents and visitors. Matt notes, “The Coffee and Chocolate Trail provides a unique way for the community to get out and explore new businesses they may not routinely pass by on their typical daily routines. We’re excited to welcome new faces to experience what we are all about.”
Looking ahead, the company shows no signs of slowing down. With two new shops set to open in 2024, Denim Coffee is well on its way to achieving its goal of opening 10 shops in 10 years. Expanded production capabilities at their new headquarters also allow for growth through retail and wholesale opportunities.
“To see the company grow to more than 60 employees, multiple retail locations, and many vibrant, successful wholesale partners has been a dream come true,” says Matt. “We are absolutely thrilled for what the future holds and excited to work with anyone who wants to make better coffee.”
As Denim Coffee continues to write its success story, it is an inspirational example for local businesses in the Cumberland Valley and beyond. With its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and community, Denim Coffee is more than just a coffee roaster; it symbolizes local pride and excellence.
Photo credit: Ben Papa Films
