Business Details
13 Years
experience
Specialty Coffee Roasters in Leeds
North Star Coffee Roasters was founded in 2013 with a vision to transform the coffee industry through quality, sustainability, and ethical sourcing. Our journey began with conversations with small-scale coffee producers in Kenya, revealing systemic issues in the global supply chain. We are committed to proving that a focus on quality and impact can create resilient business models that benefit everyone involved. Our team combines decades of expertise in coffee sourcing, roasting, and training, with co-founders Holly and Alex Kragiopoulos leading ethical procurement and operations. We work directly with producers to ensure fair partnerships and invest in projects that support coffee-growing communities in El Salvador and Rwanda.Our Leeds-based roastery and coffee shop serve as hubs for innovation, offering specialty-grade coffee, brewing equipment, and barista training. We prioritise environmental responsibility, from sustainable packaging to energy-efficient roasting practices. Our wholesale partners across the UK benefit from tailored coffee programs, equipment support, and ongoing training. Through subscriptions, we deliver ethically sourced coffee directly to customers, ensuring freshness and consistency. Our dedication to transparency and education is reflected in our coffee courses, origin guides, and brewing resources. We believe every cup of coffee should contribute to a better future for farmers, consumers, and the planet.
Services
Coffee Roasting
Wholesale Supply
Barista Training
Coffee Subscriptions
Brewing Equipment
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- Over a decade of expertise in ethical coffee sourcing and roasting.
- Direct trade relationships with small-scale producers in coffee-growing regions.
- Commitment to environmental sustainability in packaging and operations.
- Comprehensive barista training and coffee education programs.
- Consistent quality control with advanced roasting technology.
What people say
Exceptional coffee quality
Ethical sourcing
Knowledgeable staff
Sustainability focus
Consistent roasting
Services
Coffee Roasting
Specialty coffee roasting using ethically sourced beans from small-scale producers. Our advanced roasting technology ensures consistency and quality, with a focus on highlighting unique flavour profiles. We prioritise sustainable practices in every batch.
Wholesale Supply
Tailored coffee programs for cafes and businesses, including equipment, training, and seasonal menu development. We provide specialty-grade coffee, machinery, and ongoing support to ensure exceptional service and customer satisfaction.
Barista Training
Comprehensive courses covering barista skills, brewing techniques, and sensory analysis. Designed for individuals and teams, our training ensures expertise in delivering high-quality coffee experiences aligned with industry standards.
Coffee Subscriptions
Regular delivery of fresh, ethically sourced coffee tailored to personal preferences. Choose from rotating single-origin or blended coffees, with flexible grind and delivery options to suit home brewing needs.
Brewing Equipment
Supply of premium brewing tools and accessories for home and commercial use. From grinders to pour-over devices, we offer curated equipment to enhance coffee preparation and quality.
People
Holly Kragiopoulos
Co-Founder, Director, Licensed Q Grader
Holly co-founded North Star and leads ethical procurement. A licensed Q Grader, she works closely with global coffee producers to ensure quality and sustainability in every bean sourced.
Alex Kragiopoulos
Co-Founder
Alex established North Star in 2013 and oversees roastery operations. With expertise in consultancy, he ensures our coffee meets the highest standards of quality and ethical practice.
James Fairweather
Coffee Programme Manager
James manages production roasting and order fulfillment. His expertise ensures consistency in our coffee profiles, reflecting his deep understanding of coffee's potential and quality control.
Lucas Jubb
Head of Brand
Lucas leads branding and sustainability initiatives. With a background in design, he develops packaging solutions and brand strategies that align with our commitment to environmental responsibility.
John Smethurst
Barista Trainer
John provides training to wholesale partners and runs our Home Barista Course. His expertise ensures customers master brewing techniques to fully appreciate our specialty coffee offerings.
Questions
What is specialty coffee?
Specialty coffee is high-quality coffee graded above 80/100 by certified tasters. We source beans from ethical partnerships with producers, ensuring traceability and sustainability.
Do you offer wholesale services?
Yes, we provide coffee, equipment, and training for cafes and businesses. Our team supports menu development, staff training, and sustainable sourcing.
How are your coffee subscriptions managed?
Subscriptions allow you to choose coffees, grind type, and delivery frequency. You can rotate selections or stick to favourites with 10% off each delivery.
Are your products environmentally friendly?
We use sustainable packaging, energy-efficient roasting, and partner with eco-conscious suppliers. Our kiosk features recycled materials to reduce environmental impact.
Do you provide barista training?
Yes, we offer courses from beginner to advanced levels, covering brewing techniques, sensory skills, and equipment maintenance to enhance coffee expertise.
Where are your coffee shops located?
We have a coffee shop and kiosk in Leeds, with the roastery serving as a hub for retail and events. Visit our locations for fresh coffee and brewing resources.
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