Get ready to sip on this: Michigan’s coffee scene just got a whole lot more intertwined. Schuil Coffee Company, based in Grand Rapids, has acquired Leelanau Coffee Roasting Co., the Glen Arbor staple since 1993. The deal unites two icons of specialty coffee, blending their shared heritage with a fresh vision for growth. While financial terms remain private, the move signals a rare alignment in a fragmented industry. Schuil’s owner, Tim Volkema, called it “uncommon” to find a partner with such geographic and cultural overlap. That’s why, despite industry headwinds, the deal made sense.
Leelanau’s roots run deep in Northern Michigan, near the Sleeping Bear Dunes, where it’s been a pilgrimage spot for coffee lovers since the ’90s. Its expansion a decade ago—adding Sivetz fluid-bed roasters—showed a commitment to quality that now aligns with Schuil’s own legacy. Both brands have thrived for over three decades, prioritizing flavor without sacrificing value. Volkema emphasized that the acquisition isn’t just about scale but about preserving the soul of specialty coffee. “We’re not chasing trends—we’re meeting drinkers where they are,” he said.
The merger also means keeping Leelanau’s classics alive while modernizing its packaging and online presence. Employees from both companies will stay, ensuring continuity in a region where coffee is more than a drink—it’s a community anchor. The Arens brothers, who sold their 30-year-old brand, called Schuil a “perfect fit.” They praised Volkema’s focus on product excellence and customer care, confident the merger will keep Leelanau relevant for generations.
So what does this mean for Northern Michigan’s coffee culture? The answer lies in how both brands balance tradition with innovation. As Schuil expands its roster of Sparrows and Joven roasts, Leelanau’s Glen Arbor café remains a local landmark. The deal proves that even in a tough market, shared values and a love for great coffee can forge something bigger than either brand alone.
We want to hear your take—comment below.
What’s next for the future of coffee in Northern Michigan? We want to hear your take—comment below.
Questions & Answers
Who acquired Leelanau Coffee Roasting?
Schuil Coffee acquired Leelanau Coffee Roasting in Michigan. The deal marks Schuil’s expansion into the Midwest coffee market.
Where is Leelanau Coffee Roasting based?
Leelanau Coffee Roasting is based in Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan. It was acquired by Schuil Coffee, expanding their regional presence.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
