From the Publisher
Posted by estiator at 8 April, at 13 : 39 PM Print
FROM THE PUBLISHER P.S. ΜΑΚRΙΑS
More than 2 million cups per week
For our cover story, Constantine Kolitsas revisits acclaimed New York coffee roasters Vassilaros & Sons, as the company begins a new chapter after the untimely passing of John Vassilaros, the larger-than-life third generation of family members to run the company.
Building on a century of serving a superior cup of coffee to diners, coffee shops and restaurants in the metro-New York and tri-state areas, its new CEO, coffee industry veteran John Moore, is working together with the family to leverage the company’s experience, culture and commitment to customers as it explores new avenues of growth.
In addition to looking toward the future, our story reflects on the company’s origins, discussing its legacy with Alexandra Vassilaros, John’s wife, who has put her own professional pursuits on hold (she is a playwright, screenwriter and actress) to help revitalize the company after her devastating loss. Alexandra first met her late husband at a Pan-Ikarian convention in New York City, as their families both came from the famous “Blue Zone” island (so-designated for the longevity of its residents). On one of their many visits there (they maintained a home with their sons in the village of Faros, on the site of her great grandmother’s grape harvesting shed), they learned that they share a common great great great grandparent, making them fourth cousins.
Our interviews also include Maria Vassilaros and Ann Vassilaros, John’s sisters, who share anecdotes about their beloved grandfather, the company’s founder, and their father, who grew the company during his tenure at its head.
It’s estimated that more than two million cups of Vassilaros coffee are drunk in the New York metropolitan area on any given week, making it one of the city’s most beloved beverages. In addition to its traditional New York roast, the company’s product line includes espresso and Greek coffee, with new products in the plans as it seeks to grow its brand recognition and move into new markets.
