As a graduate student at the University of South Florida, I never expected my research project on sustainable business practices to lead me to a metal company owner turned coffee entrepreneur. Yet here I was, sitting across from Fred Shooshani, the owner of Bobco Metal and the driving force behind Cafe-Mitra, in his office adorned with both industrial blueprints and coffee farm photographs.
An Unexpected Journey
“I never planned to get into the coffee business,” Shooshani confessed, a warm smile crinkling the corners of his eyes. “But sometimes, life takes you down unexpected paths.”
As he recounted his journey, I was struck by the unlikely connection between his primary business, Bobco Metal, and his venture into the world of premium coffee. It was a trip to Honduras that changed everything for Shooshani. “I went there for a metal industry conference,” he explained, “but what I found was an opportunity to make a real difference.”
From Metal to Coffee Beans
Shooshani’s eyes lit up as he described the high-quality coffee he tasted in Honduras and the economic challenges faced by the local farmers. “I realized that with my business experience and resources, I could create something that would not only bring this amazing coffee to the world but also help invigorate the local economy.”
This realization led to the birth of Cafe-Mitra. As Shooshani walked me through the company’s operations, I was impressed by how he applied his expertise in supply chain management and quality control from the metal industry to the coffee business. “Quality is quality, whether you’re dealing with metal or coffee beans,” he said with a chuckle.
More Than Just Business
What struck me most about Shooshani was his genuine commitment to social impact. Cafe-Mitra isn’t just about selling coffee; it’s about empowering Honduran farmers and their communities. The company offers fair prices, provides training in sustainable farming practices, and even extends micro-loans to farmers.
“We’re not just buying their coffee,” Shooshani emphasized. “We’re investing in their future.”
The Southern California Coffee Symposium
As our conversation continued, Shooshani shared some exciting news. Cafe-Mitra is set to participate in the upcoming Southern California Coffee Symposium, a major event in the specialty coffee industry.
“This is a big step for us,” Shooshani said, his excitement palpable. “It’s an opportunity to showcase not just our coffee, but also our mission and the incredible work of our Honduran partners.”
The symposium will feature a presentation by Shooshani on sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, as well as a tasting booth where attendees can sample Cafe-Mitra’s offerings. “We’re even bringing in one of our partner farmers from Honduras,” he added. “It’s important for people to hear their story directly.”
A Model for Conscious Capitalism
As I wrapped up my interview, I realized that Fred Shooshani and Cafe-Mitra represent something larger than just a successful business venture. They embody a model of conscious capitalism that could inspire other entrepreneurs and businesses.
Shooshani’s ability to leverage his experience in one industry to make a positive impact in another is truly remarkable. His story shows that with vision, dedication, and a commitment to social responsibility, it’s possible to create a business that not only succeeds financially but also makes a real difference in people’s lives.
Looking Ahead
As I left Shooshani’s office, notepad filled with insights far beyond my original research scope, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. The upcoming Southern California Coffee Symposium at Coffee Fest 2025 marks an important milestone for Cafe-Mitra, but I suspect it’s just the beginning of a much larger journey.
Fred Shooshani’s story is one of unexpected paths and seized opportunities. It’s a testament to the power of entrepreneurship guided by conscience and compassion. As Cafe-Mitra continues to grow and make waves in the coffee industry, it stands as a shining example of how business can be a force for positive change in the world.
For this graduate student, it was a powerful lesson that went far beyond the classroom – a real-world example of how innovative thinking and social responsibility can blend to create something truly remarkable.
