Brewing Success: ICMS Student in the Coffee Business

ICMS Bachelor of Business student James Papas is balancing studies with the growth of 210 Specialty Coffee, a business he started after spotting a gap in the coffee market.

This venture delivers barista-quality coffee shots directly to customers’ homes, providing a convenient and high-quality coffee experience with a simple peel and pour.

“During COVID-19, while working as a head barista at Kazzi Beach Greek in Manly, I noticed many people were unable to make café-quality coffee at home. This sparked my interest in creating a solution,” James said.

James began experimenting with different methods to bring the café experience home.

With positive feedback from regular café customers, friends, and family, he saw a significant opportunity.

“The goal was clear: to create a coffee product that was high quality, convenient, affordable, environmentally friendly, and importantly, did not require a coffee machine,” he said.

After 18 months of perfecting the process with skilled baristas, 210 Specialty Coffee was born, all before James graduates next year.

From Bedroom to Warehouse

James’s entrepreneurial journey has been anything but easy.

“The journey has been a roller coaster so far. Starting from my bedroom and expanding into a warehouse has been incredibly rewarding,” he said.

James manages all orders through online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and the 210 Coffee website.

Looking ahead, James has ambitious plans for 210 Coffee.

“I plan to get into the hospitality industry, particularly focusing on bars to streamline coffee-based cocktails in high-volume venues,” he said.

James is also considering opening a pop-up store in the heart of Manly to bring 210’s unique coffee experience closer to more consumers.

A Unique Product Offering

210 Specialty Coffee offers ready-to-drink, barista-made coffee shots that are pre-brewed for 24 hours and sealed in custom capsules.

Each capsule contains two espresso shots, providing a quick and easy way to enjoy premium coffee without any brewing equipment.

The capsules are designed to preserve all the aromas and flavours, ensuring a delicious and preservative-free experience.

Customers simply peel, pour, and add milk or water to enjoy their coffee.

The product has gained popularity for its simplicity and convenience, making it a favourite among coffee enthusiasts and busy professionals alike.

 

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ICMS “Incredibly Supportive”

James credits much of his success to the support and education he received at ICMS.

“ICMS has been incredibly supportive, allowing me to balance my studies with running a business and working full time,” he says.

The ICMS Bachelor of Business, which includes subjects like Creativity and Innovation for Business (ENT201A), helped James develop the skills necessary to start and grow his business.

The degree focuses on developing core business skills, such as marketing, agile leadership, and financial literacy.

It also includes work-integrated learning subjects that provide students with real-world experience and industry connections. This blend of academic knowledge and practical experience has been invaluable for James in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.

The 210 Coffee Experience

One of the key value propositions of 210 Specialty Coffee is its commitment to quality and convenience.

The coffee shots are crafted using dark roasted blends and single-origin beans, each offering a unique flavour profile.

For instance, the Jet Fuel Blend is recommended for both milk-based and black coffee, while the Ethiopian Heirloom Single Origin is perfect for black coffee lovers.

The coffee is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.

The capsules are designed to minimise waste, and the company prioritises sustainable sourcing practices.

This commitment to sustainability resonates with modern consumers who are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact.

Find out more about 210 Specialty Coffee here.

Follow 210 Specialty Coffee on Instagram here.

Follow 210 Specialty Coffee on Facebook here.

Connect with James Papas here.

Find out more about the ICMS Bachelor of Business here.