In 1995, Gary Karnes set off on a search for better coffee. Frustrated with the burnt, bitter beans he often found throughout Lincoln, Nebraska, he took matters into his own hands and headed straight to the source of the nation’s most up-and-coming roasting methods: Corvallis, Oregon. Michael Sivetz, the founder of air-roasted coffee himself, took Gary under his wing and taught him how to craft the perfect cup every time.

With a new, cutting-edge technique under his belt and a refreshed entrepreneurial spirit, Gary returned to Lincoln and opened his own facility, aptly named The Coffee Roaster. For years, he provided the people of Lincoln and its surrounding areas with the ability to brew customized coffee with high-quality, air-roasted beans. Gary passed his knowledge and passion down to his daughter, Sam, and her husband, Vince, in 2014.

Together, they've rebranded the company and launched it into the digital age. With a modern vision and fresh ideas, Sam and Vince are proud to serve their coffee to satisfied customers throughout the United States, and will continue to do so until the next generation is ready to take on the family business.

Gary’s dedication to finding a better brew has resulted in a smoother, richer, never-bitter cup of coffee that leaves customers satisfied nationwide.