A New Connection Has Brewed: Welcome Padre Coffee to MCEC

Hard to believe that one cup can mean so much, but one sip and you'll see why Padre has won the hearts of Melbournians and coffee lovers everywhere.

Learn about Padre's beginnings, why they're the perfect match for MCEC, and which brew will be served throughout our venue.

Padres' start...

If you're unfamiliar with Padres' start, they began selling specialty coffee in Melbourne in 2008 and have grown from a small roastery in Brunswick East to two full-scale roasteries, four cafes across Australia, and over 300 wholesale partners worldwide.

They have and continue to be a 100% specialty coffee business, whether it be a single origin, a blend component or in a pod all are specialty grade. Furthermore, a big part of what they do is help to educate customers, both retail and wholesale learn about every aspect of coffee supply.

A perfect partnership

Like MCEC, people are at the heart of their company, with a commitment to building a workplace culture that celebrates diversity and supports collaboration and teamwork; plus, they know that everyone enjoys their coffee in different ways. Working in specialty means they are fortunate to access the best coffees from the most talented producers all over the world. Not only does this reflect the true nature of the industry and those who enjoy it, it's also their goal to have a well-rounded, curated offerings that speaks to the many various flavour preferences and origins that coffee lovers enjoy.

Speaking with Georgia Folker from Padre Coffee, "We're excited to provide MCEC visitors with a real Melbourne specialty coffee experience, to bring the local coffee scene to the wide range of visitors from all over the globe".

What makes them a one-of-a-kind?

They're not just buying any beans

They work closely with their green brokers to build long-standing relationships throughout the supply chain. Supporting specialty coffee producers ensures that their products are of extremely high quality and that the farmers and producers are paid a fair and sustainable price.

They are committed to doing what they love to do, with a good conscience and for the long haul.

They give back

Built on a belief that a strong community is about being socially connected, engaged, inclusive, collaborative, healthy and diverse. Padre is committed to supporting the communities in which they operate and raising funds and awareness for their partners through Good Coffee Doing Good program.

Good Coffee Doing Good is a project-based fundraising initiative harnessing the collective power of specialty coffee lovers to drive positive social and environmental change. Through product sales, a percentage of proceeds from the Good Coffee Doing Good range are donated to the current cause, raising awareness of global and local issues.

Raising awareness

Padre Coffee goes beyond fundraising, leveraging their platform to shed light on social and environmental issues, locally and globally. For them, it's not just about crafting exceptional coffee; it's about creating meaningful change.

What's serving at MCEC?

Lucky Boy, created in 2019, has swiftly become a beloved classic. A versatile blend boasts a rich flavour profile, ideal for espresso enthusiasts and perfectly complemented by milk. Its simplicity highlights a delightful sweetness, subtle orange acidity, and creamy body. With its smooth texture and well-rounded flavour, Lucky Boy caters to all coffee lovers, whether enjoyed with milk or black.

"One of the most exciting aspects of the partnership with MCEC is the opportunity to be a part of the visitor experience. Whether it's a catch-up over a flat white at Goldfields Cafe or an espresso break between sessions. We're excited to be a part of whatever brings you to MCEC." - Georgia Folker, Padre Coffee.

Next time you're at the MCEC, treat yourself to a taste of Melbourne with Padre Coffee, now served at our cafes and catered events.