Across the globe, the coffee industry has evolved tremendously over the last couple of decades. Developments in farming methodologies, technological advancements, changes in consumer preferences, and the rise of specialty coffee culture have all contributed to this progression. As the industry continues to evolve, we can undoubtedly expect to see many new trends and innovations emerge.
Founder and owner of Specialty Batch General Trading LLC, Stomping Grounds, and Tyler’s Tavern, Ryan Godinho, is also a certified coffee professional and self-made entrepreneur heavily invested in the hospitality sector in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He has been widely considered as one of the pioneers of specialty coffee education and cafe culture development within the region.
Ryan’s journey tells the story of a nation-wide development that led to UAE-based coffee professionals being recognised internationally at various world coffee arenas. Being a niche category entrepreneur with vast experience and success in both b2b and b2c business models, with projects that not only stand the test of time but also continue to be more successful year on year, Ryan continues to solidify his quality-driven ethos through his brand reputation.
Building Successful Coffee Businesses
From 2009 to 2011, Ryan took on an operational role for a new annual specialty coffee event in Dubai. Within that time, he was appointed National coordinator for the UAE by the Specialty Coffee Association and their World Coffee Events chapter.
In 2011, Ryan spearheaded all licensed National Coffee Championships within the annual specialty coffee event space. This portfolio included seven specialist coffee competitions, starting with the UAE National Barista Championship, the UAE Latte Art Championship, the UAE Brewers Cup, and the UAE Cup Tasters Championship.
In 2012, Ryan became the first GCC-based lead instructor for the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) in the United Arab Emirates. He was authorized to conduct all accredited educational programs related to green coffee grading, coffee roasting and coffee business. The SCAA educational program also included sensory, brewing, and barista skills professional development.
Between 2011 and 2013, Ryan conceptualised and worked to establish Specialty Batch Cofee, primarily as a training platform and educational hub for the Middle East, covering all aspects of the coffee value chain from farm to cup.
In 2013, Specialty Batch Coffee Roastery was established to address the persistent gap in the market that called for a higher-quality of coffee. Ryan aimed to procure and roast specialty grade coffee and partner with niche cafes that sought a more artisanal coffee experience.
By 2014, Ryan and his team secured formal exclusive distribution agreements with international power brands, including Synesso Inc., Anfim Grinders, and Alpha Dominche. This facilitated a new stream of geographic sales and provided ongoing services for their equipment lines within the Middle East.
By the end of 2014 Specialty Batch also secured a residential villa in Jumeirah 1, with the ambitious goal of opening a commercial space as an espresso and brew bar that doubled up as a live demo showroom for Specialty Batch Coffee.
By the end of 2015, through sheer customer demand, the venue was transformed and Stomping Grounds Cafe was established as a separate entity. Ryan and his team redesigned the space and installed a fully-equipped commercial kitchen to provide its long-list of loyal clients with an elaborate all-day dining menu.
Between 2017 and 2019, Specialty Batch Coffee grew its coffee roastery production capacity to a modest 500kg per week, to keep up with the demand for its exceptionally crafted coffee. In tandem, through its strong reputation in customer service, quality and as regional coffee pioneers, Ryan and his team were approached by a handful of up-and-coming coffee equipment manufacturers to establish further exclusive distribution and regional support agreements.
Between 2021 and 2022, Specialty Batch Coffee moved to a new harbour-side facility in Mina Rashid spanning 7000 sq. ft. which allowed for a scenic coffee bar as well as segregated spaces for its various departments. Its technical division tripled its capabilities, providing contract based technical service f along with on-call emergency services to over 500 restaurants, cafes and bars across the UAE.
In late 2022, within the same neighbourhood, Ryan and his team launched Tyler’s Tavern, a contemporary bar and grill that features fusion pub grub, craft taps, wines, signature liquors, and specialty coffee cocktails.
Stomping Grounds
Situated in the heart of the upmarket neighbourhood, Jumeirah 1, Stomping Grounds is a long-standing, distinguished specialty coffee bar and local dining spot in Dubai that occupies an individual villa and garden. Under the watchful eyes of Specialty Batch Coffee, the restaurant seats up to 100 customers, serves a myriad of single origin specialty coffees and an award-winning all-day food menu. Additionally, the facility includes a rooftop function area and is also home to the UAE’s inaugural SCAA-Certified Coffee Training Academy.
Challenges of Introducing a Fresh Idea
Ryan recognizes that introducing a completely new concept, brand, and technology to a market can be incredibly difficult and requires a great deal of persistence. It would be much easier to simply ride a trend or capitalize on the previous efforts of other entrepreneurs in developing a market.
These are the challenges that Ryan has faced with every project he has taken on. From establishing Specialty Batch Coffee as an educational facility, wholesale coffee supplier, and cafe equipment company, to opening the first neighborhood specialty cafe, Stomping Grounds, Ryan has had to navigate a multitude of daily challenges.
Investing his time and limited resources in these projects was driven solely by his passion, and there were no shortcuts. Ryan knew that he had to persist if he wanted to truly have an impact while transitioning consumer behaviour.
Virtues that Enable Success
Ryan learned three valuable lessons early on that have guided him throughout his entrepreneurial journey. Firstly, he believes that there is no substitute for quality, both in personal and professional endeavors. Ryan recognizes that being subpar in any way can be limiting, and that striving for excellence is essential. Secondly, Ryan understands the importance of consistency, which he considers a virtue often underrated by others. For him, consistency is crucial for building trust and familiarity, which in turn generates confidence and sales. Finally, Ryan learned the importance of surrounding himself with skilled individuals who share the same passion. He believes that building a team that complements and enhances the business is critical for success. On a personal level, Ryan also suggests that one’s circle of friends should inspire and motivate.
Short Term Goals with Long Term Visions
Ryan prefers to set himself goals within a more attainable 6–12-month time frame, balancing long-term visions with short-term objectives. He has found this approach to be both realistic and manageable. Ryan is also very methodological in this approach to time management, adding that this entrepreneurial trait has been fundamental to his success over the years.
While pursuing the growth of his brands, Ryan has consistently prioritized strong ethics. Even when presented with opportunities for rapid expansion, he has remained committed to a more organic method of expansion without having to compromise on quality. Ryan’s businesses have evolved with an infrastructure that continues to support his clients’ demands while upholding the company’s untarnished reputation and delivering superior and consistent quality.
Recognitions Throughout the Journey
Entrepreneur Magazine has identified Ryan as one of the Top 10 Influential Businesspersons to Watch In the Middle East in 2023. This recognition highlights Ryan’s impact and leadership in the business community and his potential for continued success and growth in the region. The award also recognizes Ryan’s vision, innovation, and contributions to the development of the business landscape in the Middle East.
Awards (Stomping Grounds):
- UAE’s Best Independent Specialty Café 2019 at the Europe and Middle East Coffee Awards, hosted by Allegra, United Kingdom.
- UAE’s Best Independent Specialty Café 2020 at the UAE Business Awards 2020, hosted by MEA Markets.
- Dubai’s BEST BREAKFAST 2020 at TIME OUT DUBAI Restaurant Awards.
- HIGHLY COMMENDED CAFÉ 2020 at TIME OUT DUBAI Restaurant Awards.
- TRAVELERS’ CHOICE 2021 AWARD by TRIPADVISOR.COM
- TRAVELERS’ CHOICE 2022 AWARD by TRIPADVISOR.COM
- BEST UPMARKET CAFE & RESTAURANT 2023 – DUBAI, at the Restaurant and Bar Awards 2023 hosted by LUXlife magazine
Awards (Specialty Batch Coffee)
- Best Specialty Coffee & Supplies Brand United Arab Emirates 2020, Food & Drinks Awards, hosted by Lux Life Magazine
- Best Specialty Coffee Equipment Service 2021, UAE Business Awards, hosted by MEA Markets.
- Best Specialty Coffee Supplier (Middle East) 2022, UAE Business Awards, hosted by MEA Markets.
- Best Specialty Coffee Supplier (UAE) 2022, The Global 100
- Most Comprehensive Coffee Supplier – Middle East 2022, at the MEA Business Awards 2022, hosted by MEA Markets.
Social Media Links:
- https://www.instagram.com/ryangodinho/
- https://instagram.com/specialtybatch
- https://instagram.com/stompinggroundsdxb
- https://instagram.com/tylersdxb
- https://instagram.com/synesso.uae
Written by Steve Sanchez.
