About Us
Our Goal is Simple: To Source and Roast The Great Coffees of The World.
Sounds simple, doesn’t it? In some respects, it is, and we never underestimate the simple pleasure of drinking a fine cup of coffee. As we often say, “It’s what’s in the cup that counts.”
The process of creating that simple cup involves a surprisingly intricate journey across the globe. We care about every facet of the journey — from the producers, to you, our customer. We’ll tell you everything we can about our coffees and why our customers tell us, “You Really Can Taste The Difference!”
Zingerman’s Coffee Co. is a wholesale roaster supplying cafes, restaurants and businesses. Feel free to contact us for sales information and for places to buy our coffee.
We also serve our coffees at our Coffee Bar located in Ann Arbor at the Zingerman’s Southside Producers row. Our baristas will prepare an excellent espresso for you to sip while you watch our roaster through a large picture window and enjoy a baguette from the Bakehouse and some goat cheese from the Creamery.
Who We Are
Ayana
Barista
What do you do?
Craft beverages
Why the Coffee Co.?
Me and coffee work well with the same kind of people.
What's your favorite drink?
Pembertino, it's weird and it shouldn't go together! But here we are talking about it.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Finding amazing places to eat & chill. Chillin' with my cats, playing video games with my brothers. All depends on the day.
What would surprise us about you?
With the right donut... I can be bought.
Becca
Barista
What do you do?
I cultivate the best coffee I know how. I offer awesome customer service and am full of suggestions! If there's a better way, tell me, so I too can be better.
Why the Coffee Co.?
Simple. I love coffee. I can appreciate all types of drinks. I love learning what the World has to offer.
What's your favorite drink?
I love a good espresso. If I want something hot to sip on, Con Miel. Cold? Blend me up an Es Alpukat!
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Travel, surf, & cook!
What would surprise us about you?
I am ambidextrous.
Bobby
Barista
What do you do?
Make Premium Coffee Drinks
Why the Coffee Co.?
Love coffee and love the atmosphere
What's your favorite drink?
Cafe con miel - a little sweet and a little nutty.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Music and stand-up
What would surprise us about you?
I haven't seen Lord of the Rings
Cadey
Barista
What do you do?
The best I can. Make the coffee, serve the coffee. Make the smiles, serve the smiles.
Why the Coffee Co.?
I enjoy the technical skills involved with making coffee in combination with the artistic aspects and customer interaction.
What's your favorite drink?
The “lemoncade”- Lemonade, shot of cream, blended, whipped cream on top. It’s similar to an orange julius or lemon meringue pie in a cup. Delicious, and yes I just made that up… lol. Actually though- I really like the chai tea latte. It’s just spicy enough, and is balanced out with sweet and creamy flavors.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Study for my restaurant management degree at EMU and baking & pastry arts degree at WCC, plan my wedding, lots of cooking and baking, and take care of my plants at home.
What would surprise us about you?
I play the tuba!
Cholie
Retail Supervisor
What do you do?
Regular barista things, with sparkle!
Why the Coffee Co.?
I've always loved how we offer so many coffees so many different ways
What's your favorite drink?
I'm usually a pour over lover. What I'm drinking in it just depends.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Hang out with my family, knit and play Dungeons and Dragons
What would surprise us about you?
I trained in college to be an Opera Singer
Chris
Roaster/Trainer
What do you do?
I do a fair amount of the roasting, I maintain the recipe database and track roasting via color, environment, and temperature. I also do the coffee training for the internal staff as well as wholesale customers, in addition to other Zingerman's employees and public classes. I maintain and update the materials for training as well.
Why the Coffee Co.?
The coffee Co does a lot right. We are invested in our products as much as we are invested in the people. Both in terms of service to those we work and collaborate with, and those we serve our product to. We are also one of the least complacent places I've been involved with. Constantly looking for new ways to improve and grow. It's demanding in all the right ways.
What's your favorite drink?
Nothing beats a solid cup of coffee. We have great beans, let them shine. While I enjoy espresso, I find the long haul experience of a cup of coffee more enriching as I can enjoy the warming and enticing aroma when its fresh and hot, as well as the ever changing panorama of flavors as it cools.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
When I'm not at the Coffee Co, I can be found doing one of my hobbies. I love to do vintage swing dancing, cycling, strength training, or playing music. I don't have a lot of down time, and I usually like it that way.
What would surprise us about you?
I used to play in a punk rock band.
Diane
Accounting Assistant
What do you do?
Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, and all other office-type "stuff".
Why the Coffee Co.?
I enjoy working with and helping people, it's close to home and the part-time position fits my personal schedule really well.
What's your favorite drink?
Spicy Mocha Latte - I love the spicy kick and of course, CHOCOLATE!
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Literacy coaching; church volunteer: kids, choirs, outreach; Nana to two beautiful granddaughters, spending time with my husband, Tom.
What would surprise us about you?
I'm learning how to sail AND getting over my fear of the water, due to not being a great swimmer (these go hand-in-hand really well!).
Doug
Demo Coordinator
What do you do?
Any and all things pertaining to promoting our coffee via demo presentations. The responsibilities include: scheduling Demos for all Wholesale Businesses who desire demos, ordering supplies for demos and demo Presenters, training new demo staffers, sharing information and best practices with staffers, problem solve any issues that arise in the Demo-world, and assist my Managing Partner with any his requests in the wonderful world of Demo-land.
Why the Coffee Co.?
I found this to be one of the more stimulating ZCOB businesses (pun intended). Have the freedom to do what I do best... to expose and sell great coffee to our guests at our Wholesale businesses. I love that the Coffee Company is always improving and striving for greatness. Needless to say, the Coffee Company satisfies a deep love of the bean in all forms.
What's your favorite drink?
Love all my little children (aka our coffees and drinks), however I find that our Espresso Blend in any all ways to be a favorite. Be it as a shot, almond milk fortissimo or as an important component to our cold-brew... it really shines!
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Oh I like long walks on the beach, sunsets, travel (especially my love for New Orleans, great food (spicy offerings from Asia and and the Americas), great drink (obviously coffee in all forms, have a fondness for Irish whiskey and brown lager), interesting music (mostly underground punk and techno with soft spots for the Blues and classical), attending sporting events (all things Detroit and UM), great movies and television (anything unusual and challenging, also love a good laugh), great books (literature and food related tomes), walking and exploring A2 and surrounding areas, love the 2 golfs... disk and chasing a small ball and pondering the nature of the universe.
What would surprise us about you?
A few things come to mind: in a previous life I was involved in banking, I can sing like a didgeridoo (or a Tuva singer who can't quite get multi octaves😕), and I have a strong love of squeakers and bacon wallets.
Elle
Barista Babe
What do you do?
Brew, Talk Coffee, Talk Life
Why the Coffee Co.?
Coffee is surprising, delicate, beautiful, comforting, and provocative for me. Coffee lovers are even more so!
What's your favorite drink?
A Pour Over of Brazil Sweet Yellow. Hazelnut & Milk Chocolate, a sweet warm hug.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Write, create, explore food, & move my body.
What would surprise us about you?
I really love Stephen King novels.
Eric
Accounting Manager
What do you do?
Accounting, financial reporting, overseeing the financial well-being of the financial records and procedures.
Why the Coffee Co.?
I've wanted to work for Zingerman's since I was in a ZingTrain seminar about five years ago. I was blown away by the way Zingerman's empowers employees to take pride in their job and allows us to give the best customer service possible and supports us in doing it. I've never felt so supported by both my co-workers and management.
What's your favorite drink?
The baristas will tell you that it's soda water, hands down. Favorite coffee? Like a whole lot of people, it's a tie between the espresso blend and the French roast (I like dark roast coffees).
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Knitting, both by hand and by machine. I teach people how to restore and use 19th Century circular hosiery knitting equipment. There are only a few thousand people in the world that still use them and I'm one of about a half dozen people that are qualified to teach the skills. Talk about a niche market, huh?
What would surprise us about you?
I've been clinically dead twice (so far), I speak French fairly well, I can read and write Braille, and if I hadn't become an accountant, I would have pursued a career as a big band vocalist (but accounting pays a lot better unless you happen to be Michael Buble or Harry Connick, Jr.).
Erin
Demo Goddess
What do you do?
I caffeinate, educate, entertain, and brighten days.
Why the Coffee Co.?
Because if I'm a junkie for any substance, it's coffee. And Zingerman's has really good coffee and a mission that I believe in.
What's your favorite drink?
Brewed coffee. Because I'm a junkie.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
I'm sorry, do you have a security clearance high enough for that information?
What would surprise us about you?
In addition to caffeinating the masses, I am a voice over artist.
Jeff
Warehouse/Production Manager
What do you do?
Oversee wholesale as well as local production and ensure that our coffee gets to our customers on fresh and on time so that they may enjoy the product in its prime.
Why the Coffee Co.?
I have a history with Zingerman's, having overseen Purchasing at the Deli for a number of years, but the time was right for a change both for myself and the Coffee Company. I have a long standing love for coffee and even met my then future wife while working at a coffee shop in Saline in the 90's.
What's your favorite drink?
Same thing here as at home, Colombian in a Chemex. I find this brings out the citrus and reminds me sunny warm weather and my Colombian Gramps. I never add anything to coffee, preferring the simple nuances of a freshly brewed black cup of coffee.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Spending time at the gym, training myself and others.
What would surprise us about you?
My primary method of fitness involves swinging around steel maces, as in the medieval weapon, and martial arts.
Kevin
Coffee Production Assistant
What do you do?
Fill customer orders with coffee, pull warehouse inventory, and much more!
Why the Coffee Co.?
It's a great place to work with fun people, with the ability to learn new skills and grow as an employee.
What's your favorite drink?
Espresso shot! Rich in flavor, and perks me right up!
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Spend time with my kids, bowl, shoot my guns, and grill.
What would surprise us about you?
I can whistle with my finger and thumb very loudly.
Kim
Barista Babe
What do you do?
Brew coffee and make hand-crafted drinks
Why the Coffee Co.?
I enjoy the numerous types of brewing methods offered at the Zingerman's Coffee Company. I also enjoy the freedom of artistic craftsmanship! :)
What's your favorite drink?
A Clever of Ethiopia! The Clever captures the flavors so beautifully. It's like a blueberry muffin you can drink.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
You can probably find me at an antique mall, finding vintage things to put in my apartment. Either that or playing guitar and sipping on turmeric ginger tea.
What would surprise us about you?
I'm not Italian!
Laura
Wholesale Customer Support
What do you do?
The BOH (back of house) and I provide support to our wholesale customers by making their ordering experience as easy, fast and accurate as possible!
Why the Coffee Co.?
I worked here (for years!) and left to move out of state. When I came back to Ann Arbor, MI., I couldn't think of any other place I'd rather work!
What's your favorite drink?
OK....super boring, but I really just like brewed coffee. It's fun to learn about coffees from different regions of the world.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
I'm a clarinetist who has fun performing in bands, orchestras and chamber groups. My next musical adventure is to learn klezmer clarinet!
What would surprise us about you?
Ummm.....I can juggle?
Lauren
Warehouse Crew
What do you do?
I produce and ship out Zingerman’s Coffee for wholesale customers!
Why the Coffee Co.?
I get free coffee!
What's your favorite drink?
Vanilla latte with an extra shot. Our espresso is delish!
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
I’m pursuing a degree in social work. When I’m not at school, I like to spend time with my boyfriend and our cats.
What would surprise us about you?
I’m a huge beer nerd.
Lily
Barista/Shot Jockey
What do you do?
Get as much coffee into as many people's hands as possible. I have also described my job as "throwing espresso" and "mostly banter".
Why the Coffee Co.?
I have a not-so-moderate coffee addiction (I blame my mother, my undergraduate senior thesis, and my propensity for reading past my bedtime).
What's your favorite drink?
While I can often be found preaching the gospel of Full Bloom in a Chemex, I also love Sumatra pourovers, iced Espresso Blend #1, and lattes.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Reading & writing (magical realism, children's literature, queer theory), and entering into complicated negotiations with my cats.
What would surprise us about you?
I grew up on a farm and used to be a competitive equestrian.
Lydia
Busy Barista Bee!
What do you do?
I do my best to bring the Zingerman's experience to everyone I meet in the company!
Why the Coffee Co.?
As a college student, I require coffee to function. More than that, I've always respected the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into a cup of joe or a fancy latte. It's very satisfying to work with coffee!
What's your favorite drink?
A sweet matcha with lavender honey is the ultimate pick-me-up! The lavender is soothing, and the tea is sweet and creamy!
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
I'm pursuing a Japanese major at EMU, so you can find me deep in a textbook or walking around downtown Ann Arbor looking for a good study spot. I also like to doodle and create digital art.
What would surprise us about you?
I LOVE reptiles. If you show me a photo of a gecko, I might start crying. I have a blue tongue skink named Joey, and recently adopted a small bull snake!
Matthew
Wholesale Account Specialist
What do you do?
I give support to our wholesale cafe customers: account management, education, equipment service.
Why the Coffee Co.?
Great coffee, great people, and love being part of the Zingerman's Community of Businesses.
What's your favorite drink?
I drink espresso every morning. I love the intensity and richness of flavor.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Distance running! I put in a lot of miles on the roads and trails of Ann Arbor.
What would surprise us about you?
I was a competitive gymnast for many years and can still walk on my hands.
Michelle
Marketing Manager
What do you do?
I support the marketing and graphic design needs of our wholesale clients, wholesale business, and our café! I totally love my job because I used to get in trouble for being on social media and for doodling in class. Now it’s my career..!
Why the Coffee Co.?
When I moved to the area 10 years ago, Zingerman’s reputation for exceptional customer service and business practices preceded its reputation for exceptional food. It made an impression on me as a great community of business for which to work. I have a background in home brewing and worked for a craft beer brewery for three years, and absolutely loved it. I feel like the vibe of a brewery and café are similar in a lot of ways, as is the science behind making beer and coffee. So, when I came across this job, I had to go for it. Now that I’m here, I’d add that the leadership and my coworkers here are interesting, fun, hard-working folks who make it easy to spend most of my time here! And, coffee benefits, obviously.
What's your favorite drink?
Lately I’ve been addicted to the Tumeric Ginger Chai Latte. If you haven’t tried it yet, you're missing out. Also, it is naturally caffeine-free… I know so many people who need to avoid caffeine, so I like to spread the good word.
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Drawing, Netflix binging, taking my adorable pup to the dog park, and running.
What would surprise us about you?
I used to play roller derby, and was a jammer for the Ann Arbor Derby Dimes. Also, I have a motorcycle – a Suzuki Boulevard s40.
Quinten
Barista
What do you do?
Brew coffee, drink coffee, serve coffee... drink coffee.
Why the Coffee Co.?
As a discerning coffee drinker, I care about quality coffee - especially when it's sustainably sourced and locally roasted!
What's your favorite drink?
Iced Brazil Full Bloom, out of a Chemex! The best way to drink an iced light roast - tons of flavor and a smooth sip!
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Read, and hike.
What would surprise us about you?
I'm a former chef!
Rachelle
Wholesale Sales Manager
What do you do?
I do whatever needs to be done!
Why the Coffee Co.?
I LOVE Zingerman's business philosophy and I LOVE coffee.
What's your favorite drink?
Mexican Chiapas in a mug, preferably a mug we have in the café that says "Hello, Gorgeous".
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Raising tiny humans while dreaming of playing tennis.
What would surprise us about you?
I play(ed) the bassoon. I am also a huge rock nerd (geologically not musically) and I love spending time searching and staring at rocks.
Stacy
Barista Wrangler
What do you do?
Try to make people happy by caffeinating them!
Why the Coffee Co.?
I've always loved crafting beverages for guests! When I look back at my “working life”, I was the happiest at being a Barista. I love developing relationships with a guest/staff member over a delicious and warm cup of Joe. It just makes my heart happy!
What's your favorite drink?
Lavender & honey latte. It's a warm, soothing hug for your mouth!
What do you do when you're not coffee-ing
Hanging out with Mocha (my dog, not the drink) and watching endless hours of Netflix with Mocha (my drink, not the dog).
What would surprise us about you?
I came in second place in my high school talent show for singing “Bust a Move” by YOUNG MC.