Horsebox Coffee Co

Horsebox Coffee Co was started in 2014 by Emily in South Oxfordshire, initially as a mobile coffee operation run from a converted horsebox. In 2015 the roastery side of the business followed, trading as Dark Horse Roastery.

Emily had spent two decades in speciality coffee in London before returning to Oxfordshire and starting both operations. The roastery is based at Highlands Farm in Brightwell-cum-Sotwell and uses a Diedrich roaster, which the business says reduces roasting emissions by up to 50% compared to standard equipment.

All packaging is compostable and plastic-free. Local wholesale deliveries go out in returnable 6kg tubs via a restored 2CV delivery van; longer-distance orders go through Velocity carbon-neutral couriers.

The business serves local farm shops and cafés and runs roastery and barista experiences on site. Over 75% of customers are within 50 miles of the roastery.