The History of Baronet
Our Story
Over 90 years and four generations later, Baronet Coffee continues to operate using the founder’s simple business philosophy – “provide customers with the highest quality coffee and continually exceed their service expectations, and you will have a customer for life.” We welcome you to taste the tradition of Baronet Coffee. We’re sure you’ll find its rich character mirrors the commitment of two brothers who used to say, ‘One cup invites another.’”
First Generation
Second Generation
Third Generation
Historic Timeline
Isedore and Nathan Goldsmith founded the MANHATTAN COFFEE AND SUGAR COMPANY in 1918. The warehouse was located in Long Island City, and the business consisted of a truck from which the brothers sold bulk coffee and sugar, door to door. By 1930, the company had a fleet of 13 trucks and 20 employees. The grim days of the Great Depression made one thing clear- quality coffee was a luxury Americans could always afford.
Isedore’s son, Leon (2nd generation), joins the company after graduating from New York University. He sees an opportunity to bring Baronet’s high-quality coffee to the office market and begins plans to expand the business. This new division is named “Bruce’s Coffee Service Plan USA,” after Leon’s newborn son.
Bruce (3rd Generation) joins his parents in the family business after graduating from Union College and working at Procter & Gamble.
Once again, a new generation of Goldsmith leadership ushers in new plans for the company’s continuous growth. Bruce becomes instrumental in developing the specialty coffee program, successfully branding the Baronet name, and expanding the company’s geographical reach through distributor programs.