MBN USA

August 12, 2025

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From conference to contracts: How NMSDC helped Gavina Coffee Co. brew a $2 million opportunity

(REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM THE NATIONAL MINORITY SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL).

Gaviña Coffee Company became a certified MBE in 2012, but it was the NMSDC Annual Conference & Exchange that turned that certification into contracts.

“One of our most significant NMSDC-driven relationships is with Sodexo, which began in 2013 at the NMSDC Business Opportunity Fair in San Antonio. That introduction, which wouldn’t have happened without the NMSDC platform, has grown into a long-term partnership,” said Lisette Gaviña Lopez, 4th Generation Coffee Roaster, Managing Director of Sales and Marketing.

Today, that partnership generates nearly $2 million in sales. Gaviña is the only minority-owned coffee roaster on Sodexo’s national contract, serving lounges in 13 East Coast airports and programs across healthcare, higher education, and business & industry.

“Our MBE status played a critical role in securing the Sodexo-American Airlines Admirals Club and Flagship lounges contract. Nine months post-rollout, Sodexo’s coffee purchases grew by 130%,” Gaviña Lopez shared.

Beyond Sodexo, Gaviña has leveraged NMSDC connections to expand into new markets, support distributor partners, and build relationships with top buyers like CVS, Walmart, and Foodbuy.

“The NMSDC network has significantly increased our exposure, brand visibility, and market reach," Gaviña Lopez added.

What Can the Conference Do for You?

By attending the NMSDC Conference, Gaviña Coffee Company has:

• Gained national visibility with major buyers
• Helped partners win bids
• Expanded into new markets
• Built long-term strategic partnerships that drive revenue and scale