Havana Coffee Works

Havana Coffee Works Origin and History

Havana Coffee Works began as a grassroots coffee roastery in 1989 in Wellington, New Zealand. Founded by Geoff Marsland and Tim Rose, the brand was inspired by the vibrant spirit of Cuba and focused on roasting high-quality, ethically sourced beans. It became a cultural icon in Wellington, known for its distinct packaging and association with the local arts and cafe scene.

Manufacturing and Global Expansion

Most of the production remains centered in Wellington, New Zealand, where the company operates its flagship roastery. However, following its acquisition by a global beverage giant, the distribution and some production elements have expanded to leverage international supply chains. The brand maintains a commitment to fair trade and organic sourcing, often dealing directly with coffee growers in South America and the Pacific.

Corporate Ownership and Evolution

In 2018, Havana Coffee Works was acquired by Lion (formerly Lion Nathan), which is a major beverage company operating across Australasia. Lion itself is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, based in Japan. This ownership structure has allowed Havana to scale its operations while maintaining its boutique brand identity under the umbrella of one of the world's largest beverage conglomerates.