West Cork Coffee, Ireland’s first micro coffee roastery, was founded in 2016 by Tony Speight in Innishannon. Known for its precision roasting, influenced by Speight’s engineering background, it uniquely supports World Coffee Research and focuses on sustainability and education in coffee production.
West Cork Coffee (WCC) is Ireland’s first commercial micro coffee roastery, established in 2016 by Tony Speight at The Forge in Innishannon, West Cork. The company’s journey began in 2004 when Speight, an electrical engineer by training, hand-built his first coffee roaster, transforming his hobby into a professional pursuit.
What distinguishes WCC is their commitment to precision and craft, influenced by Speight’s engineering background. The company has gained recognition in the specialty coffee scene, notably being selected for The London Coffee Masters 2017/18. They maintain strong relationships with World Coffee Research (WCR), contributing a percentage of their green bean costs to support research aimed at improving cup quality and sustaining coffee supplies while enhancing producer livelihoods.
Their approach to roasting combines scientific precision with artisanal craftsmanship. Speight’s engineering background is evident in the meticulous attention to detail in their roasting process, which has earned them a loyal following among specialty coffee enthusiasts and local food businesses.
The company demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, both in their sourcing practices and operations. They work directly with producers and focus on maintaining high-quality standards throughout their supply chain. Their roastery in Innishannon serves as both a production facility and a hub for coffee education and development.
The business has grown organically through word-of-mouth and quality-focused partnerships, establishing itself as a significant player in Ireland’s specialty coffee scene, particularly in the Cork region. They maintain a balance between wholesale operations and direct-to-consumer sales through their online platform.
West Cork
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