Next to oil, coffee is the second most commonly traded commodity in the world. When it comes to all things java, Paramount Coffee has certainly carved its niche in the bean counting business—in this region and beyond—by embodying an independent, entrepreneurial spirit.

In the beginning

Seventy-five years ago in August, three men from Chicago struck out to make it big in the coffee biz. David Radway, Lawrence Weingarten and Joe Block left the Windy City and landed on Turner Street in Lansing; and in 1935, sold 14,292 pounds of coffee. Today, Paramount cranks out 4,000 pounds per hour in its 80,000-square-foot plant on Larch Street, and their coffee products are distributed to restaurants, cafes and offices throughout the region.

Through war rationing during the 40s, relocations and changing of ownership, the Paramount Coffee brand has stood the test of time and is thriving, according to Brazilian-born coffee authority Angelo Oricchio, chairman and CEO, who has been a driving force in the success of the employee-owned business.

“The best time is right now,” he says. “Challenge makes us better and we’re working harder than ever.”

President and COO Steve Morris agrees. “We’re growing into new markets, which is fun, with new salespeople. We’re experiencing growth everywhere in Michigan and throughout the Midwest, and Internet sales (www.paramountcoffee.com) are extremely positive.”

While many businesses are struggling in the current economic crisis, Paramount has set itself apart by diversifying into other areas, thanks to a growing organic coffee market and its newest cutting-edge coffee line, JOE.

Reaching out

Paramount’s beans come from all over the world, including apartheid-torn Rwanda. Goats to Gashonga, a program established recently through a partnership with Michigan State University, has allowed Paramount to donate $1 for every pound purchased in the U.S. to growers in Rwanda. For more on the program, visit www.iia.msu.edu/pearl/.

Four hundred goats have been given to the community in Gashonga, Rwanda so far, greatly improving the lives of the people there. Last year, Orrichio traveled to meet those benefitting from the partnership.

“We help sustain those who grow the coffee; we wanted to help the people make a decent living,” Oricchio adds. “I wanted to meet the people who produce the coffee, and I sensed the overwhelming appreciation they showed, it was amazing.”

The company also encourages community involvement. The Ele’s Place blend that benefits Ele’s Place in Lansing has been a smash hit since its debut in 2007.

Since 1935, Paramount has worked to establish themselves as one of the largest coffee roasters in the Midwest. In a dynamic market, the company has managed to make its mark by focusing on growth, innovation and uniqueness—and shows no signs of slowing down.