Colectivo Coffee: Milwaukee’s Original Direct Trade Coffee Powerhouse

Founded in 1993, Colectivo Coffee has grown from a local roaster into a widely respected name in the national specialty coffee scene—all while staying true to its Milwaukee roots. Known for its ethically sourced beans, small-batch roasting, and artful café design, Colectivo blends coffee craftsmanship with community-building at every level.

Direct Trade Excellence, Roasted Daily

At the heart of Colectivo’s mission is a dedication to direct trade relationships with farmers across the globe. This hands-on approach ensures quality, transparency, and sustainability while supporting producers in coffee-growing regions like Latin America, Africa, and beyond. Their coffees are roasted in small batches at their Milwaukee roastery, with a focus on balance, brightness, and origin clarity. From smooth house blends to vibrant single-origin espressos, every roast reflects their commitment to flavor integrity.

Iconic Cafés Across Wisconsin

Colectivo cafés are as beloved as the coffee itself. With bold, artistic interiors and welcoming atmospheres, their locations—especially the flagship Prospect Avenue café and Lakefront café—have become cornerstones of Milwaukee’s cultural landscape. These spaces host everything from community meetups to live performances, embodying the brand’s deep investment in local creativity and connection.

Sustainability That Goes Beyond Buzzwords

Environmental stewardship is embedded in Colectivo’s operations. They utilize eco-conscious roasting processes, compostable packaging, and renewable energy initiatives. Their “green” practices aren’t performative—they’re a reflection of long-term values, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint while delivering exceptional coffee.

A Wisconsin Staple with National Reach

While proudly Milwaukee-based, Colectivo’s reputation has spread across state lines thanks to its signature coffee offerings, branded merchandise, and strong online presence. Their subscription service delivers their most popular blends, like the Toro espresso and Blue Heeler blend, to coffee lovers nationwide. Yet, no matter how far their reach grows, Colectivo remains a true Wisconsin original.

More Than a Roaster—A Community Catalyst

Colectivo isn’t just in the business of making coffee—they’re building community. Through partnerships with local artists, musicians, nonprofits, and businesses, they create shared spaces that reflect the diversity and energy of the cities they serve. Whether you’re sipping a seasonal cold brew or enjoying brunch in one of their eclectic cafés, Colectivo fosters a sense of place and purpose.

Discover Colectivo Coffee on Roasters Map

Explore Colectivo’s full story, offerings, and café locations at Roasters Map. For anyone seeking expertly roasted, ethically sourced coffee with Milwaukee soul, Colectivo Coffee is the gold standard.