Meet the Owners of a New Olympia Coffee Roaster Wobbly Cup
In December 2023, the closure of Burial Grounds Coffee Collective prompted former roasters Colin Barlett, Lacey Perfors, and Zoe Raizen to establish Wobbly Cup Cooperative Roasters in Olympia, Washington. This new venture represents the only worker-owned roasting cooperative in Thurston County, aiming to recreate the community spirit that the founders cherished. They are dedicated to sourcing only organic and fair-trade beans, reflecting a commitment to ethical practices in the coffee industry. Colin emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationships between growers and their ecosystems, striving to learn new languages to communicate with them directly. The cooperative is rooted in the legacy of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) union, with its name and logo paying homage to the union's history.
Despite facing challenges such as rising green bean prices under the current administration, the team remains focused on their mission. They believe in the value of mutual accountability and teamwork, which have made their journey possible. Wobbly Cup aims not only to provide quality coffee but also to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all.