Kahawa 1893, a Kenyan coffee brand with a mission to support women farmers, made headlines after appearing on Season 14 of the popular television show, ‘Shark Tank.’ The company, led by founder and CEO Margaret Nyamumbo, has deep roots in Kenya where her family owns a coffee plantation. Since its inception, Kahawa 1893 has made great strides in both sales and market expansion.
Before appearing on the show, Kahawa 1893 had already reached an impressive milestone by becoming the first coffee brand to be sold at Trader Joe’s in May 2021. With its products available in over 200 establishments across America, the company’s success continued as it secured an agreement with Target stores in July 2021, expanding its reach to all 50 states. As for the ‘Shark Tank’ appearance, Margaret Nyamumbo sought $350,000 for 5% equity in her company, showcasing the potential of her business to the investors.
Kahawa 1893 and its Origins
Kahawa 1893 is a unique coffee company with a mission to provide single origin African coffee while supporting the Kenyan women who grow the coffee beans. The company traces its roots back to 1893, hence its name, which means “coffee” in Swahili.
The founder of Kahawa 1893, Margaret Nyamumbo, is a Kenyan native whose family has been involved in the coffee industry for generations. She moved to the United States to pursue an MBA from Harvard University and later decided to embark on a journey to bridge the gap between Kenyan coffee growers and consumers worldwide.
Kahawa 1893 sources its coffee beans directly from Kenya, Rwanda, and Congo, with special emphasis on offering unique roasts and origins that showcase the distinct flavors of each region. The company takes pride in its diverse selection of 16 different roasts, including whiskey and rum barrel-aged coffee beans.
Margaret’s compelling story and dedication to empowering Kenyan women have captured the attention of investors on the popular television show Shark Tank, where she pitched her coffee company. Throughout the growth of Kahawa 1893, Margaret has continued to give back to the community by dedicating a portion of the company’s profits to support the women responsible for producing the coffee beans.
By choosing Kahawa 1893, coffee lovers not only get to experience the rich flavors of single origin African coffee but also contribute to the development and empowerment of the hardworking Kenyan women who passionately cultivate these exquisite beans.
The Journey to Shark Tank
Kahawa 1893, an African coffee brand with a focus on supporting women farmers in Kenya, Rwanda, and Congo, found its way to the popular TV show Shark Tank. The CEO and founder, Margaret “Maggy” Nyamumbo, is an entrepreneur with an impressive background. She holds an MBA from Harvard and has experience working on Wall Street.
Nyamumbo’s journey to Shark Tank began with her passion for promoting fair labor practices and uplifting the lives of coffee laborers in her home country, Kenya. Through Kahawa 1893, she sought to create a brand that would not only produce high-quality coffee but also make a positive impact on the lives of those involved in its production.
In Season 14, Episode 14 of Shark Tank, Nyamumbo presented her Kenya-produced coffee brand to the sharks. Her pitch highlighted the brand’s objectives as “coffee beans with a purpose”, focusing on the support of women farmers and fair labor practices. By the time she brought Kahawa 1893 to the sharks, the company was on track to hit $4 million in revenue for 2022 and had already made $2 million in 2021.
After impressing the sharks with her vision and strong financial performance, Nyamumbo attracted the attention of Mark Cuban, one of the successful and well-known investors on the show. Her appearance on Shark Tank significantly boosted the brand’s visibility and expanded its reach to new audiences.
One of the notable achievements for Kahawa 1893 includes becoming the first Black woman-owned coffee brand to launch with Trader Joe’s. By 2023, the company’s sales are projected to reach more than $4 million. With the support of influential figures like Mark Cuban and the exposure provided by Shark Tank, Kahawa 1893 continues to grow and make a difference in the lives of women coffee farmers and laborers across Africa.
Post Shark-Tank Developments
After appearing on Shark Tank, Kahawa 1893 has experienced significant growth and success. The founder, Margaret Nyamumbo, went on the show seeking an investment of $350,000 for a 5% equity stake in her company. Due to the impressive sales numbers and a mission that resonated with the investors, Kahawa 1893 attracted attention and secured a $350,000 investment from the Sharks.
Following the investment, Kahawa 1893 expanded its presence across the United States, reaching customers in cities like San Francisco and New York. The company’s products are now available in popular retail stores such as Trader Joe’s and Sprouts, making it the first Black woman-owned coffee brand to launch with Trader Joe’s.
This expansion significantly boosted sales for Kahawa 1893. Before appearing on Shark Tank, the company made $2 million in revenue in 2021. Post the show, it was on track to reach $4 million in sales for 2022. Needless to say, the investment and exposure from the show played a crucial role in these favourable developments.
Kahawa 1893’s website also gained traction post the Shark Tank appearance, allowing more customers to access and purchase their coffee online. The company’s mission to prioritize compensating Kenyan woman coffee farmers resonated with many, further driving business growth.
In conclusion, the Shark Tank investment and subsequent exposure have been instrumental in Kahawa 1893’s success. As the company continues to thrive in various markets across the US, its impact on the lives of Kenyan women coffee farmers is expected to grow, creating a better future for those involved in the coffee industry.
Products and Blends
Kahawa 1893 offers a diverse selection of coffee blends and related products, tailoring to the preferences of coffee enthusiasts everywhere. They source their coffee beans directly from East African farmers, ensuring fair trade and a unique taste profile.
One of their popular blends is the Safari Blend, a combination of Kenyan and Tanzanian coffee beans, offering a rich and fruity flavor. The Serengeti Blend complements the Safari Blend, featuring a mix of beans from Tanzania and Ethiopia, known for their smooth and chocolatey notes. For those looking for a single-origin experience, the Kenyan Single Origin and Ethiopian Blend provide distinct, regional flavors.
More adventurous coffee lovers can explore options like the Congo blend and the African Chai Spice Coffee, adding an exciting twist to traditional coffee. The Simba Blend combines beans from Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda, while the 1893 Espresso is perfect for those who appreciate a robust espresso shot. The rare Tanzania Peaberry offers a unique flavor due to its single, round bean in every cherry.
Kahawa 1893 also provides options attributed to specific coffee varieties, such as the SL-34, a Kenyan coffee known for its bright acidity and fruity notes, and the Rwanda Single Origin, showcasing the region’s exceptional coffee quality.
For those who prefer decaffeinated options, the Decaf Blend delivers a delicious coffee experience without the caffeine. The Rum Barrel-Aged Coffee adds a unique touch to their lineup, with beans aged in rum barrels for a bold flavor infusion.
Not limiting themselves to coffee, Kahawa 1893 also offers a range of tea options like the classic Black Tea, the comforting English Breakfast, and the fragrant Cream Earl Grey, catering to tea lovers who appreciate quality and flavor in their brews.
In summary, Kahawa 1893 presents a unique selection of coffee and tea products, providing something for everyone’s taste and preference. So, whether you’re a die-hard coffee fan or a tea devotee, this remarkable brand has you covered.
Engagement with Farmers and Laborers
Kahawa 1893 is a coffee company that cares deeply about its farmers and laborers. The founder, Margaret Nyamumbo, grew up on a coffee farm in Kenya, which gives her a personal connection to the farming community. The company works directly with women farmers in African countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Congo. This direct engagement helps ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their efforts and that the coffee production process remains sustainable.
In addition to its focus on women farmers, Kahawa 1893 is committed to the well-being of all laborers involved in coffee production. One key aspect of this commitment is investing in better working conditions for laborers and providing them with access to education, healthcare, and clean water.
By sourcing its coffee beans from these African countries, Kahawa 1893 also contributes to economic growth and job creation. The company’s investment in farmers and laborers extends beyond monetary support, as it emphasizes the importance of sustainable agricultural practices. This includes providing training on land management and eco-friendly farming techniques, which benefits both the farmers and the environment.
Kahawa 1893 is conscious of its environmental impact as well. The company uses eco-friendly packaging for its coffee products as a way to reduce waste and promote sustainability. This decision not only aligns with the company’s values, but it also resonates with their environmentally conscious customers.
Overall, through farmer engagement, investment in labor welfare, and eco-friendly packaging, Kahawa 1893 demonstrates its commitment to the African farmers and laborers involved in coffee production. They are setting an example for the coffee industry to follow by prioritizing sustainable practices and equitable partnerships with coffee farming communities.
Market Presence and Expansion
Kahawa 1893 has significantly expanded its market presence since its appearance on “Shark Tank.” Founder Margaret Nyamumbo first brought her brand to the show, where she managed to secure a deal of $350,000 for a 5% stake in the company. At that time, Kahawa 1893 made $2 million in revenue in 2021 and was on track to reach $4 million in 2022.
One significant step in expanding Kahawa 1893’s market reach was partnering with Trader Joe’s. In May 2021, Kahawa 1893 became the first coffee brand carried by Trader Joe’s, making it available in over 200 establishments across the United States. Such a partnership opened doors to other opportunities and increased the brand’s visibility.
Aside from Trader Joe’s, Kahawa 1893 formed an agreement with Target stores in July 2021. This partnership allowed the brand to enter a broader market and offer the product in Target stores across all 50 states. Today, Kahawa 1893 is found not only in Trader Joe’s and Target but also in Sprouts grocery stores and on Amazon, further bolstering its market presence.
Kahawa 1893’s sales have been on the rise since 2021, with projections for 2023 to reach over $4 million. This impressive revenue, combined with successful partnerships and a strong commitment to helping female farmers, has significantly boosted the brand’s net worth.
The company has also embraced modern technology by incorporating QR codes on their packaging. Customers can scan the code to learn more about the brand, the product, and the farmers who produced the coffee beans. This interactive feature ensures a personalized experience for consumers and helps the brand stand out in the competitive coffee market.
In summary, Kahawa 1893 has made impressive strides in market presence and expansion since its appearance on Shark Tank. With partnerships such as Trader Joe’s, Target, Sprouts, and Amazon under its belt, the friendly brand is well on its way to continued growth and success.
Awards and Recognition
Kahawa 1893 has certainly made a mark in the coffee industry. The brand, founded by Margaret Nyamumbo, quickly gained attention after its appearance on Shark Tank Season 14. Competing against other innovative businesses, the company’s focus on Kenyan coffee and supporting women farmers stood out.
Not only did the brand receive praise from Mark Cuban, who called it a “brilliant idea,” but it has also been featured in renowned publications such as Forbes and Medium. These features highlight Kahawa 1893’s efforts in empowering women coffee farmers in Kenya and providing a delicious, high-quality product.
The company’s impact doesn’t stop there. As part of the Harambeans community, an entrepreneurship network supporting African innovators, Kahawa 1893 boosts its credibility and contributes to creating a better future for the continent through business and innovation.
With such recognition and involvement in prestigious networks like Harambeans, Kahawa 1893 continues to propel forward, reaching more people with its unique story and delectable coffee. The company’s presence on Shark Tank has only amplified its voice in the market, leading to greater awareness, appreciation, and success.
Online Presence and Public Engagement
Kahawa 1893 has built a strong online presence, with their website as a central hub for customers to learn about the brand and purchase products. The website showcases the company’s mission of empowering women farmers in Kenya, Rwanda, and Congo. They also provide detailed information about the coffee beans, brewing recommendations, and the story behind the brand.
In addition to the website, Kahawa 1893 maintains an active Twitter presence. They frequently engage with their audience, sharing updates about the company, new products, and interesting coffee facts. The brand’s friendly tone resonates with its followers, creating a sense of community around their shared love for coffee and social impact.
When Kahawa 1893 appeared on Shark Tank, theygenerated significant public engagement. Margaret Nyamumbo received an investment offer from Kevin O’Leary, which boosted the brand’s visibility and led to increased sales. Following the show, the company’s online presence saw a notable rise in user engagement, especially on social media platforms like Twitter. The collaboration with Kevin O’Leary has also opened doors for Kahawa 1893 to forge partnerships with retailers like Trader Joe’s and Sprouts, further enhancing their public profile.
As the brand continues to grow, it’s evident that their online presence and public engagement have played a significant role in their success. By maintaining a friendly tone and staying true to their purpose of empowering women farmers, Kahawa 1893 has firmly established itself as a coffee brand with a strong identity and a loyal following.
Impact and Industry Insights
Kahawa 1893 has made a significant impact on the coffee industry, particularly in the African coffee sector. The company, founded by Maggy Nyamumbo, aims to address inequalities in the industry and promote ethical and sustainable coffee production. Maggy, a native of Kenya and Harvard University MBA graduate, leverages her educational background and passion for coffee to create positive change and growth in the market.
The US coffee market has embraced Kahawa 1893, with the brand achieving remarkable success in sales and partnerships. Since its appearance on Shark Tank, the company’s revenue has climbed, reaching $4 million in 2023. This growth highlights the demand for ethically sourced, high-quality coffee products in the US market.
With a focus on addressing cultural and gender inequalities within the African coffee industry, Kahawa 1893 actively supports women coffee farmers. The brand collaborates with Retold Recycling, an initiative that upcycles jute coffee bags into reusable tote bags. Through these partnerships, Kahawa 1893 aims to create a more equitable and sustainable coffee supply chain.
By establishing relationships with popular retailers like Trader Joe’s and Target, Kahawa 1893 has expanded its reach across the US. With products now available in more than 200 establishments, the company continues to gain momentum and recognition as an ethical and unique brand within the industry.
In conclusion, Kahawa 1893’s impact on the coffee industry showcases the power of a strong vision and commitment to fostering ethical and sustainable practices.
