We are fortunate to shine the spotlight this week on Afsoon Shahvarianian, the entrepreneur behind Buno Coffee Roasters and Cafe. The Brisbane-based coffee business takes pride in its state-of-the-art roasting facility, with its fully-automated roasting systems that use advanced software to control every aspect of the roasting process ensuring consistency in their coffee products as well as improved sustainability. Their products also showcase Australia’s rich culture through the Aboriginal art in their packaging.
ISB: How did you discover your passion for coffee?
AS: My passion for coffee blossomed over two decades of immersion in the industry in my home country. Through years of hands-on experience, I cultivated coffee expertise and familiarity with the finest coffee farms globally. This journey ignited my passion for the art and science of coffee, propelling me to share my knowledge and create something exceptional in Australia.
ISB: What motivated you to set up your own coffee business despite the fierce competition in the market?
AS: I arrived in Australia with a belief that I could bring something unique to this vibrant coffee scene. The opportunity to merge my expertise with the rich coffee culture here ignited a fire within me to make a difference and elevate the coffee experience for Australians. The drive to create something truly special and unique fueled my decision to establish Buno Coffee Roasters. I knew that with the right approach and dedication to quality, there would always be room for innovation in the coffee industry.
ISB: How does technology play a role towards delivering an exceptional coffee experience with Buno?
AS: At Buno, we leverage cutting-edge coffee roasting technology and state-of-the-art machinery to ensure maximum quality and sustainability in every cup. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation drives us to constantly seek out the latest advancements in roasting, packaging, grinding, and capsuling machinery. By integrating these technologies into our processes, we elevate the entire coffee experience for our customers.”
ISB: Why is it important to showcase the local culture in the various aspects of the business?
AS: In our dedication to celebrating local culture, we proudly showcase Aboriginal arts in our coffee packaging. It’s our way of paying homage to the indigenous heritage of Australia while adding a touch of authenticity and beauty to our products. Each package tells a story, weaving together the richness of coffee and the vibrancy of indigenous art.
ISB: What is your vision for Buno’s growth in the next couple of years?
AS: As we explore opportunities to expand Buno’s reach, my focus remains on delivering the highest quality coffee experience to our customers, both locally and globally. Looking forward, we aim to expand our presence both locally and internationally. We plan to open more locations and possibly explore franchising while maintaining our core values. Additionally, we’re looking into more sustainable practices and innovative products to continue to lead in the coffee industry.
ISB: What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in this business journey that other entrepreneurs should take to heart?
AS: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of authenticity and unwavering dedication to quality. By prioritising the satisfaction of our customers and consistently delivering the highest quality coffee, we’ve cultivated a loyal following that continues to support us. Building trust and maintaining integrity in everything we do has been the cornerstone of our success.
