Exhibiting at Melbourne International COFFEE EXPO (MICE) 2025

The Folk Roaster, based in regional New South Wales, Australia, is an artisanal specialty coffee brand dedicated to producing transparent, ethically sourced, and small-batch roasted coffees. With a deep-rooted connection to both local and international coffee producers, The Folk Roaster emphasizes simplicity, traceability, and quality, appealing to conscious consumers who value origin integrity and storytelling in their coffee experience.

Core Business and Offerings

The Folk Roaster operates as a specialty coffee roaster and direct-to-consumer retailer, offering a curated selection of single origin and blended coffees through their online store. Key product lines include:

• Single Origin Coffees:

  • Saturday Light Roast: A standout light roast featuring 100% Australian-grown beans, highlighting the emerging specialty coffee scene in Australia. Celebrated for its bright, clean, and delicate flavor profile.

• Blended Coffees:

  • The Stamp Blend: An innovative blend that combines Kenyan Kevote Microlot beans with Australian microlot beans. Designed to offer both complexity and approachability, bridging global and local terroir.

• Sample Packs:

  • Curated selections combining various roast levels and origins, ideal for customers exploring their flavor preferences or gifting specialty coffee.

• Branded Merchandise:

  • Limited-run apparel and lifestyle accessories aligned with the brand’s minimalistic, design-forward aesthetic.

Specialisation and Core USP

The Folk Roaster is defined by its micro-roasting ethos, origin diversity, and commitment to Australian-grown coffee, which remains rare and highly prized within the broader specialty market. Key USPs include:

• Support for Australian Coffee Agriculture: One of few roasters to feature local Australian beans prominently in its core lineup.

• Transparency in Origin and Process: Detailed storytelling accompanies each coffee, outlining producer background, processing method, and tasting notes.

• Minimalist, Thoughtful Branding: Appealing to design-conscious consumers seeking authenticity and craftsmanship.

• Focus on Freshness and Seasonality: Small-batch roasting ensures optimal freshness, with seasonal rotations based on harvest cycles.

Financial Strength and Performance

While The Folk Roaster remains a boutique operation, its strong niche positioning and premium product focus suggest consistent performance indicators such as:

• Direct-to-Consumer Model: Fully online operation allows for lean overhead and targeted marketing to a loyal customer base.

• High Engagement Rate on Social Channels: Strong Instagram presence, with close community interaction, storytelling, and product showcases.

• Local Market Penetration: Notable recognition within NSW’s artisan food and beverage circles, with presence at farmers’ markets and regional festivals.

International Shipments and Trade Records

Due to its scale and focus on domestic traceability, The Folk Roaster currently operates within Australia only. However, its use of globally recognized origins like Kenyan microlots alongside Australian beans indicates:

• Sourcing Relationships: Imports traceable green beans from producers and exporters in Kenya, maintaining ethical sourcing standards.

• Export Potential: Niche, high-value products such as The Stamp Blend may appeal to overseas boutique roasters and curators of specialty Australian goods.

Target Market

The Folk Roaster is tailored for a discerning consumer demographic:

• Coffee Enthusiasts and Connoisseurs: Individuals seeking flavor clarity, origin detail, and high-quality, fresh roasts.

• Sustainability-Oriented Buyers: Customers looking to support small businesses and local Australian agriculture.

• Design and Lifestyle Buyers: Attracted to minimalist packaging and brand storytelling.

• Gift Buyers and Subscription Drinkers: Sample packs and rotating offers cater to newcomers and loyal repeat customers.

Capabilities

• Small-Batch Roasting Infrastructure: Allows for high quality control and agility in experimenting with roast profiles.

• Digital-First Operation: E-commerce-driven, enabling personalized customer experiences and efficient nationwide delivery.

• Community Integration: Engages with local farmers, producers, and consumers through regional events and collaborations.

• Content-Driven Brand: Focused on origin storytelling, brewing education, and producer features.

Certifications and Compliance

• Ethical Sourcing Model: Though not formally certified, The Folk Roaster emphasizes traceability, producer welfare, and above-commodity payments.

• Support for Local Agriculture: Prioritizes Australian-grown beans, supporting domestic specialty coffee farming and sustainability.

• Environmentally Mindful Practices: Packaging and operational decisions made with minimal waste and responsible sourcing in mind.

Customer Testimonials

“I’ve never had Australian coffee that tasted this clean and floral. Saturday Light Roast is a revelation.”
— Online Customer Review

“The Stamp Blend tells a story in every sip. You can taste the craft and care behind it.”
— Gift Pack Purchaser

Achievements and Milestones

• Pioneer of Australian-Grown Single Origin Coffee: One of the few roasters offering single origin coffee using locally sourced beans as a signature product.

• Strong Community Loyalty and Repeat Business: Built a consistent customer base through online storytelling and quality.

• Recognized in Independent Coffee Circles: Featured in niche specialty coffee and sustainable living platforms for product integrity and brand ethos.

• Contribution to Local Coffee Economy: Advocates for the visibility and viability of Australian coffee growers through product spotlighting and long-term sourcing.

The Folk Roaster exemplifies the values of craftsmanship, transparency, and regional pride—elevating both local and global origins through thoughtful roasting and intentional storytelling.