De Koepoort

Koffiebranderij De Koepoort shows how a young roaster can quickly secure a permanent place. The company started in Middelburg next to the historic Koepoort and later moved to Serooskerke to make room for growth. Craftsmanship, modern technology and fair trade are the driving forces. This approach appeals to both consumers and the hospitality sector and offers useful lessons for the whole coffee industry.

The name ties the brand to Zeeland's history and gives a recognizable story. Under the leadership of owner Dennis Plantinga, the roastery grows from a small workshop into a company serving retail, wholesale and white-label roasting. Within five years the range increases from a few origins to more than twenty-five coffees. That expansion shows how local identity can go hand in hand with ambitious growth.

Customer participation plays a role here. In the early days the roasts were very light, after feedback the balance was fine-tuned. By actively listening and improving quickly, De Koepoort has built a strong reputation in Zeeland and beyond.

Each bean is roasted on a Giesen machine with precision software. The software records temperature, time and airflow in real time, guaranteeing repeatability. Small batches give the roasters full control and preserve nuance in the flavor profile.

Freshness is central. Beans never remain on the shelf longer than three to four weeks. This way the end user always tastes lively aromas and sweetness without bitter notes. On average De Koepoort chooses a medium roast that lets natural flavors speak and helps keep equipment clean.

The flagship is the Michiel de Ruijter-blend. Brazilian and Peruvian Arabica receive a small dose of Vietnamese Robusta for extra power. The roast is slightly darker than the single origins and performs excellently in milk-based drinks.

Single-origin lovers will find a wide selection from Latin America, Africa and Asia. Examples include Costa Rica Tarrazú "Amapola" with an SCA-score of 85 and Burundi Turaco with fruity clarity. Exotic options such as Indian Monsooned Malabar or Congo RAEK "Katana" offer smoky or funky sensations that are not available everywhere.

Fair prices form the core of the purchasing policy. In Tanzania De Koepoort pays smallholders $5.50 per kilo, well over double the local auction price of $2.50. That difference finances better farming and a higher standard of living, which further improves quality.

Long-term relationships reinforce this approach. The collaboration with the Colombian Argote family began in 2014 and has led to investments in pulping machines, drying beds and experimental fermentation. Farmers are thus given the chance to test innovative processes and develop distinctive flavors.

Koepoort continuously invests in new equipment. In 2024 a Nucleus Link-sample roaster will be added for research and fine-tuning micro-lots. Later that year the Aillio R2-line will be introduced to boost production numbers without compromising precision.

At the same time, the green coffee wholesale operation is expanding. Customers can order sample bags starting at one kilo, but can also purchase full pallets. This flexible distribution is making Zeeland an emerging hub for specialty imports in Europe.

Workshops, tastings and mobile coffee bars bring knowledge directly to the public. SCA-certified baristas demonstrate latte art at festivals such as the Zeeland Nazomerfestival and train attendees. The "Be Your Own Barista" concept gives events the chance to pull their own espresso with a rented cart.

This open approach fosters a local community of home baristas, hospitality entrepreneurs and curious tasters. The interaction increases appreciation for quality coffee and stimulates demand for transparently produced beans.

- Link brand identity to local history for a credible narrative.
- Combine craft with data-driven roasting for consistent quality.
- Pay farmers well above market price to create better product and loyalty.
- Keep stock ultra-fresh to maintain flavor and customer satisfaction.
Use education and events to build a strong community.
Invest early in scalable technology and R&D to support growth.

Koffiebranderij De Koepoort proves that a small start and big ambitions can go hand in hand. By working transparently, paying fairly and continuously innovating, a sustainable model is created. This approach offers not only delicious coffee but also inspiration for every professional in the industry.