“The professors who had a hand in sharing ideas and mentoring me throughout my time at CWRU were key for helping me continue on to success.”
—Pablo Lopez, ’18
Co-Founder and CEO, Mocina Coffee
Three years ago, Pablo Lopez (pictured here) graduated from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management with a degree in finance and the beginnings of a successful, socially responsible coffee business.
Last year, he turned to current CWRU students in the Action Learning business capstone course to provide insights to help grow Mocina Coffee into a household name.
“Our Action Learning team was helpful and provided consulting that was great for us. The team was really able to relate well with our customers and provide solutions they felt would boost customer satisfaction.“ he says. Based on the team’s research and recommendations, Mocina launched an Amazon-based approach to increasing sales.
Mocina pays coffee farmers in Huehuetenango, Guatemala, an average of 34% above fair trade prices and provides work on a year-round basis, as farmers both grow and roast their beans. Pablo says this business model offers enhancements that “allow us to take better care of our people.”
And, speaking of taking care of his people, by teaming up with Weatherhead students, Pablo created meaningful learning opportunities for his alma mater, while gaining fresh perspectives to growing his business’ online subscription model.
A CWRU grad ⏩ A socially responsible startup ⏩ Hands-on learning experiences ⏩ Your business success ⏩ Learning from and sharing with the next generation.