Article: "The inspiring story of Café Castelo" Journal de Québec
"The inspiring story of Café Castelo " Journal de Québec
When Prédrag Okuka, president of Café Castelo, left his native Yugoslavia to settle in Quebec City with $20 in his pocket, it was clear that he wanted to take an active part in the development of his host society.
"I had absolutely nothing. We lost everything because of the war. To start the business, I picked strawberries and potatoes," Okuka said.
To thank Quebec society for opening its arms to him, the businessman has set himself the goal of creating 100 jobs through his partners.
"It took a couple of years and we're past it," he said.
Café Castelo produces Arabica coffee in its roasting plant in Lévis. Formerly located in the Vanier industrial park, the company moved last year to a building twice as large.
Counting on the loyalty of some 15 partners who distribute his coffee, Mr. Okuka hopes to see his network grow to reach the magic figure of 300 jobs within five years. The new facilities in Levis were designed to accommodate increased production.
"We work with our partners to train them and find territories," Okuka added, noting that its business model does not rely on selling franchises since each owner is completely independent. Recently, Café Castelo launched gourmet coffees in a K-Cup format compatible with Keurig brewing systems.
