Name and Occupation?
Beth Watson - Account Manager
How did you get into coffee?
I started working in a speciality coffee shop a few years ago while finishing my Master's degree. I never expected to enjoy learning about coffee so much. While working there, I really enjoyed the specialty barista training and I learned a lot about the origins of coffee and the processes behind it. The coffee industry fascinated me from this moment and I knew there was so much more to learn.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned about coffee since you started working here?
That coffee beans come from a cherry... who knew? And that they are fermented in drums or dried on sheets with flavours that then give the beans specific notes later on.
What is your favourite part of working at Rounton Coffee?
The people I work with. They are the most relaxed, fun and knowledgeable team around, and that's what makes this role so enjoyable. I also get to visit the best coffee shops around the North East and surrounding areas, drink coffee all day, meet even more lovely people, and get paid for it.
What’s your favourite spot in North Yorkshire to relax or have a coffee?
I haven’t been in North Yorkshire for a long time, as I have been living on the east coast of Spain and enjoying a cortado out in the sunshine whilst there. However, the coffee is completely different over here in England, from presentation, variety and flavour, so now I'm re-discovering all the great coffee spots here and especially around the North East. I love sitting in Hash in Darlington and enjoying their rooftop when we do get some sunshine!
What is your proudest achievement in coffee?
Seeing the improvements in my coffee knowledge growing, particularly surrounding the different origins where we get our coffee and the flavours they provide. My barista skills are constantly improving too as we work with our wholesale customers and their teams to serve great coffee. This is particularly satisfying.
If you were not working at Rounton Coffee, what would you be doing?
I try to get out and explore the English countryside as much as I can, so lots of walking, enjoying British pubs and doing as much yoga as I can fit in. I would also be getting out and trying as many lovely independent coffee shops in the area (luckily I’m finding many of these in this job).
If you could change one thing in the coffee industry, what would that be?
I would love to change how so many people contribute to huge coffee chains, rather than supporting small and careful independents. These smaller businesses are mindful of where they source their coffee from and really care about their customers. I just wish more people took the time to consider where they spend their money when choosing their coffee.
If you were a coffee blend, what would your flavour profile be?
Anything nutty and rich, if it has dark chocolate notes then I am happy. I say this as our Brazilian Dark Roast is definitely a favourite of mine.
What do you do away from work?
Yoga, a bit of running and lots of walking. I'm always on the hunt for small coffee businesses and cute coffee shops and breakfast spots!