Premium coffee roaster and retailer Intelligentsia Coffee was acquired by Peet’s Coffee & Tea in 2015. The move brought Chicago-based Intelligentsia into the portfolio of Peet’s parent JAB Holding Co., which also owns Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Caribou Coffee and Einstein Noah Restaurant Group Inc. Take a look inside Intelligentsia.
Intelligentsia
Intelligentsia has 10 coffee bar locations in Los Angeles, Chicago and New York. One or two units will be added in new markets this year.
Intelligentsia
Founded in 1995, Intelligentsia is considered a pioneer of the “third wave” coffee movement, focusing on small-batch roasting and direct-trade sourcing.
Intelligentsia
Intelligentsia is not trying to be the next Starbucks, its founders say. The goal is to grow its lineup of coffee bars, featuring interesting roasts and friendly service, that bring consumers closer to the source of their coffee.
Intelligentsia
Peet’s officials say the super-premium coffee market is exploding in the U.S. The trend is driven by Millennials, who are more affluent, love premium brands, and seek variety and new experiences.
Intelligentsia
Intelligentsia coffees are exclusive to the brand. The company works alongside the farmers that grow the beans around the globe.
Intelligentsia
The company includes three roasting operations, in Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Intelligentsia
Intelligentsia coffee is also sold wholesale, and is used in restaurants such as Eleven Madison Park in New York; Angry Catfish Bicycle + Coffee Bar in Minneapolis; and Volta Coffee, Tea & Chocolate in Gainesville, Fla.
