At 81 years old, George Howell remains a key figure in specialty coffee, celebrating 50 years in the industry. As the founder of The Coffee Connection and a pioneer of the 'third wave' coffee movement, Howell has transformed how coffee is perceived and enjoyed. His journey began in the 1970s when he opened the first Coffee Connection cafe in Harvard Square, aiming to improve the quality of coffee in Boston. Howell introduced light roasts and direct trade practices, shaping the modern coffee landscape. His commitment to innovation continues today, focusing on packaging and preserving coffee varieties amid climate challenges.
• Howell opened the first Coffee Connection in 1975, offering high-quality French press coffee.
• He sold the chain to Starbucks in 1994 but remained active in the industry.
• In 2004, he launched his own roastery in Acton, Massachusetts, and has expanded to five cafes.
• Howell's Cup of Excellence competition has significantly raised the profile of specialty coffee.
Howell's story illustrates the impact of passion and dedication in an evolving industry. His early efforts helped establish specialty coffee as a dominant market force. Today, his relentless pursuit of quality inspires new generations of coffee enthusiasts and professionals, ensuring that the love for exceptional coffee continues to thrive.
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