Raphael Perrier:
Raphael studied at CEFAM an international business school in Lyon, France and then completed his studies at Temple University in Philadelphia receiving a BBA in Marketing. Right after university Raphael entered the coffee business and was involved in the early development of the retail and wholesale business of La Colombe Torrefaction, a well-known Philadelphia based coffee roasting company.
Raphael then opened and operated a restaurant/nightclub in Philadelphia for 3 years before selling it for a 300% return on investment.He then relocated to the Tampa Bay area with his wife where they saw great opportunity in a growing market.
He returned to his roots in the coffee industry where he had established strong connections over the years. He had a vision for filling a void in the Tampa Bay market. Kahwa Coffee Roasting began operations in 2006 as a wholesale coffee roasting company and then moved on to the retail market with its first café in 2008.
Sarah Perrier
Sarah grew up in St Petersburg and after graduating from high school she left to pursue her education and early career. Sarah attended Butler University studying Arts Administration and holds a BFA from University of the Arts in Philadelphia.
Sarah’s experience in office management and organizational skills were developed as Company Manager and Tour Manager of the Koresh Dance Company and Koresh Dance Center in Philadelphia.Sarah developed their national touring program as well as the expansion of their company and school.She also performed and taught professionally with the company for eight years.
Returning to the Tampa Bay area in 2005 she saw the changes and growth that were happening and wanted to be a part of it. Together with her husband they saw an opportunity to create a company that would become an integral part of the community.