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National Coffee Day: A History of Fueling Business Success


One of the first things American’s do in the morning – besides brushing their teeth, showering and taking the dog out – is to make themselves a steaming cup of coffee. What with conglomerate coffee companies announcing that, “The best part of waking up is Folgers in our cup,” Americans have become accustomed to nurturing their daily caffeine addiction. It comes as no shock that the U.S. has been celebrating National Coffee Day for some time; however, the holiday became official in 2005. While the origination of this holiday is unknown, it has become widespread and is celebrated by countries all over the world on various dates. The Irish celebrate it on September 19th, the Swiss on September 26th, and many more on a variety of dates. In order to truly honor September 29th, National Coffee Day in America, here are a few fun facts about coffee:
  • A French doctor in the 1600’s prescribed coffee au lait to his patients, inspiring people to add milk to coffee.
  • Old legend indicates that a goat herder discovered coffee when he realized how the bean was making his goats react.
  • Hawaii is the only state that commercially grows coffee; the U.S. imports the rest.
  • New Yorkers drink approximately 7 times more coffee than any other city in the U.S.
  • Coffee beans are actually the pit of a berry, making them a fruit.
  • The first webcam was introduced at the University of Cambridge to let students and staff know when the coffee pot was full.
  • Espresso has 1/3rd  of the caffeine in a regular cup of coffee.
  • The coffeehouses in Constantinople were known as “houses of wisdom” because men would gather there to discuss arts and literature.
  • Dark roasts have less caffeine than medium roasts – the longer the coffee is roasted the more coffee burns off.
  • Coffee is the second highest traded commodity, averaging about $60 billion annually.
  • The most expensive coffee beans come from the Asian Civet, who eats the berry, and then passes it through its digestive tract.
  • Some Businesses will take advantage of National Coffee Day by providing free coffee accompanied by a purchase.  Check your local offerings to see where you can get some free brew.
The next time you’re by the ole office coffee pot, share one of these fun facts with your co-workers. But remember, while coffee may be the fuel you need to be innovative and solve the problems at your business, too much coffee can make you ill. Drink with care. And respect the bean that helps keep you motivated throughout the day. Do you have another fun fact to share about coffee?