Brandon Ivan Peña: From Humble Beginnings to Building a Coffee Empire with 787 Coffee

Brandon Ivan Peña’s entrepreneurial journey started with a deep passion for coffee and a desire to build connections through authentic, community-focused coffee shops. As the CEO of 787 Coffee, Brandon set out with a bold vision: to open 100 coffee shops within five years, growing the brand from Puerto Rico to New York and beyond.

The inspiration behind 787 Coffee was simple—Brandon’s love for coffee and its power to bring people together. He saw coffee as more than just a beverage; it was a way to foster human connections, inspire creativity, and provide a welcoming environment. “Coffee is a romantic way of starting the day,” he says, describing the joy of seeing customers work, read, or simply enjoy their time with others in his shops.

However, building 787 Coffee into a thriving brand didn’t come without challenges. From navigating the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic to recovering from Hurricane Maria, Brandon had to demonstrate resilience. The pandemic forced him to temporarily close shops and adapt operations, but it also underscored the importance of a strong, adaptable team. His coffee farm in Puerto Rico, Hacienda Iluminada, faced significant losses due to natural disasters, but with the help of his dedicated team, Brandon continued to push forward.

One of Brandon’s key insights is the power of authenticity in digital marketing. He believes that brands, especially in the food and beverage industry, must focus on storytelling and transparency. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are instrumental in building trust with customers by showing the real process behind products, such as how 787 Coffee’s beans are handpicked and sustainably grown.

Brandon’s leadership extends beyond his coffee brand; he’s also a business coach, helping aspiring entrepreneurs in the food and beverage sector. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, a strong customer experience, and scalability in creating a successful business. Through his workshops and hands-on coaching, Brandon teaches business owners how to build sustainable operations, grow their brand, and foster loyalty.

As 787 Coffee continues to expand, Brandon remains committed to the values of quality, sustainability, and community. His legacy isn’t just about coffee—it’s about creating a platform that connects people, one cup at a time.

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