Back in 2013, Marin County was abuzz with the opening of Equator Coffees at the Proof Lab campus in Mill Valley. The first physical location for a brand the community had become aware of via popular local eateries, as well as because of founders Helen and Brooke’s commitment to serving up Fair Trade Certified coffee to the masses, was big news.
But Equator’s story didn’t begin in 2013. It started in Marin in 1995, when business and life partners created Equator Estate Coffees & Teas in the place where all great stories begin; a garage. Three years later, Brooke headed off to the Chipicay Cooperative in Guatemala to study coffee, getting hands-on experience with how the beans are grown and harvested, immersing herself in all aspects of coffee production. By buying beans in Nicaragua, Equator became a partner of Fair Trade USA; a relationship that has continued to this day.
Equator Coffees has only gotten bigger and better since. They became the very first coffee roaster in California to become a Certified B Corporation, putting a true stamp of excellence on their commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical business practices. They’ve opened nine different retail locations, including in the stunning Round House at the Golden Gate bridge, bringing the best in beans to an iconic tourist spot with 360-views that make already wonderful coffee extra special.
To celebrate the ten year anniversary of the Proof Lab location, the company is:
Partnering with another local Marin business, Mike’s Bikes, to host the epic Tour d’Equator: Pride Ride. A cycle like no other that takes you through the scenic bike paths from the top of Mount Tamalpais and down to Sausalito. Of course, by then you’ll have worked up an appetite, but worry not, as you’ll be rewarded with free paninis and drinks, and a chance to experience the limited time Celebration Cake Latte. The best part? The ride is free to join!
Partnered with artist Fisher Monahan to create illustrations of all of Equator’s Marin locations, with the designs available on 12oz mugs, enamel pins, and free stickers. They also have limited edition Pride Tiger Pins, with the funds being donated to The LGBT Asylum Project. Their Proof Lab location is at 244 CA-1, Mill Valley, CA 94941.
Visit equatorcoffees.com for more details.
