Green Mountain Coffee Roasters

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters (GMCR) is an American coffee company and coffee maker brand founded in 1981 and headquartered in Waterbury, Vermont. The company is known for its specialty coffees, Keurig single-serve coffee pods, and innovative brewing technology. GMCR played a pivotal role in popularizing single-serve coffee systems in the United States and globally.

History

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters was established in 1981 as a small café in Waitsfield, Vermont, by Bob Stiller. The company initially focused on selling high-quality coffee beans and brewing equipment. In the 1990s, GMCR expanded its business by acquiring several small coffee companies and began to focus more on wholesale operations, supplying coffee to businesses and restaurants.

In 2006, GMCR acquired Keurig, Incorporated, a manufacturer of single-serve coffee brewing systems, marking a significant shift in the company's strategy towards the single-serve coffee market. This acquisition allowed GMCR to expand its product line to include Keurig's patented K-Cup pods, which became immensely popular due to their convenience and variety.

Products and Services

GMCR offers a wide range of products, including traditional whole bean and ground coffee varieties, single-serve coffee pods compatible with Keurig brewing systems, and other beverages like tea and hot cocoa. The company has also developed a line of commercial brewing systems for offices and foodservice establishments.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters has been recognized for its efforts in sustainability and social responsibility. The company focuses on fair trade practices, ensuring that coffee farmers receive a fair price for their beans. GMCR also invests in various environmental initiatives, such as reducing waste and carbon emissions and promoting organic coffee production.

Acquisition by Keurig Dr Pepper

In 2018, GMCR, then known as Keurig Green Mountain, was acquired by JAB Holding Company and merged with Dr Pepper Snapple Group to form Keurig Dr Pepper, a leader in the beverage and coffee industry. Despite the merger, the Green Mountain Coffee brand continues to thrive, offering a wide range of coffee products and brewing systems.

See Also

• Coffee culture
• Fair trade coffee
• Single-serve coffee container
• Sustainable business practices