Export Market Holds Hot Potential for Irish Coffee Firm

Ristretto, a coffee roasting business that started off some 20 years ago from a garage in Northern Ireland, has taken some commercial advice on board and is now looking to boost its venue through exports.

As a result of financial support from Invest NI, the roasting enterprise – run by duo Mark Anderson and Greg Radcliffe – has managed to secure its first export opportunity to the Republic of Ireland.

With regards to the specifics of Invest NI’s financial support, this involved £20,516 worth of research and development backing, including financial support, on a periodical basis, from the European Regional Development Fund, which it is hoped will enable the company to develop 10 new blends of coffee for the Republic of Ireland as well as Great Britain.

Taking an innovative approach to the development of its new espresso and filter blends, Ristretto is building on the success it has achieved in its home market of Northern Ireland, where the business supplies to leading coffee houses, restaurants and hotels and has earned itself a strong reputation with top chefs for the taste and quality of its coffee.

Managing Director for Ristretto, Mark Anderson, said that the company’s success to date is based around its usage of only ethically-sourced and high grade coffee beans that are delivered to its clients as soon after the roasting process as possible, so as to ensure maximum freshness. “Ethical sourcing is now an important market trend. All our beans are sourced from fair trade suppliers,” added Anderson.