Blue Bottle Coffee

Blue Bottle Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster and retailer renowned for its commitment to freshness, quality, and sustainability. Founded in 2002 by W. James Freeman in Oakland, California, the company has grown from a single café to a global presence.

It now operates over 100 locations across the United States and internationally. The company’s philosophy centers on providing customers with the freshest coffee possible.

To achieve this, Blue Bottle roasts beans in small batches and delivers them to cafés and customers within 48 hours of roasting. This dedication ensures that each cup offers optimal flavor and aroma.

Blue Bottle's menu features a variety of coffee beverages, including pour-over, espresso, and cold brew options. They also offer a selection of pastries and light bites to complement their drinks.

The cafés are designed with a minimalist aesthetic, creating a serene environment that reflects the brand’s dedication to simplicity and quality.

In addition to its physical locations, Blue Bottle has expanded its reach through an online store, offering whole bean coffee, brewing equipment, and subscriptions. This allows coffee enthusiasts to enjoy their products at home while maintaining the same level of quality and freshness.

The company has made significant strides in sustainability. In December 2019, Blue Bottle announced plans to eliminate disposable cups at some shops, aiming for zero waste within one year. This initiative underscores their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Company Ownership

In 2017, Nestlé acquired a 68% majority stake in Blue Bottle Coffee for approximately $425 million. This partnership has enabled Blue Bottle to expand its reach and resources while maintaining its focus on quality and sustainability.

Presence and Locations

As of June 2024, Blue Bottle Coffee operates 78 locations across the United States, with the highest concentration in California, which accounts for approximately 59% of all their U.S. locations.

• San Francisco, CA, USA
• Los Angeles, CA, USA
• San Diego, CA, USA
• San Mateo, CA, USA
• San Jose, CA, USA
• Boston, MA, USA
• Cambridge, MA, USA
• Washington, DC, USA
• New York, NY, USA
• Chicago, IL, USA
• Skokie, IL, USA
• Cicero, IL, USA
• Berwyn, IL, USA
• Las Vegas, NV, USA
• Hoboken, NJ, USA

Industry Position

Blue Bottle Coffee’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and customer experience has solidified its position as a leader in the specialty coffee industry. It offers a unique and enjoyable coffee experience to enthusiasts worldwide.