Edgar Munn, president of Blue Mountain Coffee Inc. (BMCI), is a prominent figure in the specialty coffee world and a key steward of Jamaica’s globally renowned Blue Mountain Coffee heritage. His work has not only strengthened the presence of Jamaican coffee in international markets but also preserved and expanded the legacy of his family’s deep roots in the industry.
A Legacy Rooted in the Blue Mountains
Edgar Munn was born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1948 and raised in the lush coffee-growing region of the Blue Mountains. Coffee wasn’t just a crop in his family—it was a way of life. His grandfather, Victor Munn, founded the Mavis Bank Coffee Factory in the 1920s, one of Jamaica’s premier coffee processing facilities. The factory played a critical role in elevating the standard and recognition of Jamaican coffee.
His uncle, Keble Munn, further solidified the family’s influence. As Jamaica’s Minister of Agriculture, Keble Munn was instrumental in defining the geographic boundaries for authentic Blue Mountain Coffee production and led the first successful export of the product to Japan. He was also a passionate advocate for small farmers, working to ensure they benefitted from the premium market positioning of their beans.
Blue Mountain Coffee Inc: Preserving Quality, Expanding Reach
Founded in 1990 and based in Cumming, Georgia, BMCI under Edgar Munn’s leadership has become one of the leading importers and distributors of authentic Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee in the United States. The company imports directly from trusted farms like Flamstead Estate and Trumpet Tree Coffee Factory, maintaining strong relationships that ensure traceability and quality.
To preserve the distinctive flavor and freshness of Blue Mountain Coffee, BMCI roasts its beans in Atlanta and ships them within 24 hours. This commitment to quality has solidified BMCI’s reputation among discerning coffee lovers and helped the brand thrive in a competitive specialty market.
Advocating for Small Farmers
One of Edgar’s most impactful contributions is his unwavering support for small Jamaican coffee farmers. Through initiatives like the “Small Farmer Collection,” BMCI provides micro-farms with a platform to reach global customers, helping them gain visibility and secure fair pricing for their high-quality beans. This model reinforces the sustainability of coffee farming in the Blue Mountains while preserving its artisanal character.
Innovation and Diversification
Edgar Munn has also guided BMCI through strategic innovations. In response to growing consumer interest in decaffeinated coffee, the company partnered with the Mavis Bank Coffee Factory and the Swiss Water Company to create a decaffeinated version of Blue Mountain Coffee, preserving its signature flavor without caffeine.
Furthermore, BMCI launched “Munn’s World Coffee,” a line featuring carefully selected beans from over 20 countries, appealing to a broader spectrum of coffee enthusiasts while maintaining its core commitment to quality.
Recognition and Continuing the Legacy
In 1995, Edgar Munn accepted the Specialty Coffee Association of America’s Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of his uncle, Keble Munn, honoring the family’s pivotal contributions to the global coffee industry.
Today, Edgar Munn continues to lead Blue Mountain Coffee Inc. with passion and integrity. His efforts have not only elevated the profile of Jamaican coffee but also ensured that the legacy of his grandfather and uncle lives on. Through innovation, quality assurance, and deep respect for the farming communities, Edgar Munn remains a central figure in the world of specialty coffee.
To learn more, visit bluemountaincoffee.com.
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