Get ready to sip on this: 321 Coffee’s new 5,000-square-foot roastery in Raleigh isn’t just about scaling up—it’s about redefining what it means to brew inclusivity into every bean. The company, which began as a farmers market stand in 2017, now roasts over 100,000 pounds of coffee annually, with plans to open a sixth location by year’s end. This expansion isn’t just about meeting demand; it’s a statement. By tripling production capacity, 321 Coffee is proving that purpose-driven growth can outpace even the most ambitious business plans.
The new facility, anchored by a Loring S35 roaster alongside its existing Loring S15, marks a deliberate shift from tech-heavy workflows to a more human-centric approach. Early iterations of the roastery relied on digital systems to guide staff, but co-founder Michael Evans admits those tools had limitations. “We’ve since moved in a different direction,” he says, emphasizing accessibility over automation. The result? A space designed to minimize physical strain, like replacing heavy burlap bags with a dedicated green coffee system. For roasters like Sophie Pacyna and Paul Kocher, this isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about creating a workspace where skill and care thrive.
While the tech pivot feels counterintuitive, the results speak for themselves. Wholesale sales now dominate 321’s business, fueled by partnerships with importers like De La Finca and Cafe Imports. The company’s ability to scale without sacrificing its mission—supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities—highlights a rare balance. Evans notes that years of roasting expertise have reduced reliance on “tech assists,” proving that sometimes, simplicity beats complexity.
Key points: The new roastery triples production capacity, prioritizing accessibility over automation; wholesale now drives the business, powered by strategic partnerships; and 321’s growth underscores that purpose and profit can coexist.
How do you balance scalability without losing your core mission.
What’s next for a company that’s already redefined what it means to brew with intention? How do you balance scalability without losing your core mission? We want to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below.
Questions & Answers
How much capacity does the new 321 Coffee roastery have?
The new Raleigh roastery has three times the capacity of the previous location, allowing for increased production and expanded coffee offerings.
Where is 321 Coffee’s new roastery located?
321 Coffee’s new roastery is located in Raleigh, North Carolina, offering a larger space for brewing, roasting, and customer engagement.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
