Airing between regular episodes of the VinePair Podcast, “Covid-19 Conversations” takes an inside look at how the coronavirus crisis is impacting all areas of the alcohol business.
In this installment of “Covid-19 Conversations,” VinePair CEO Adam Teeter speaks with James McLaughlin, CEO of Intelligentsia Coffee. For 25 years, Intelligentsia has provided high-quality artisanal coffee to consumers, starting as a roaster cafe and expanding to include 15 coffee bars, restaurants, and grocery stores across the U.S.
As CEO since 2014, McLaughlin’s initial aim for Intelligentsia has been to present its products as culinary experiences, promoting the nuanced expressions of direct trade coffees. Currently, Intelligentsia is utilizing contactless delivery for its products through online ordering app Toast. The company is also considering plans to safely reopen its brick-and-mortar businesses, but timing will vary depending on location.
Meanwhile, McLaughlin foresees an enduring increase in the use of online ordering apps — not only for to-go purchases, but for in-store purchases as well. He believes the contactless strategy will continue as coffee shops reopen, because it increases customer safety and comfort.
