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A Legacy of Hard Work and Innovation
A Foundation Built on Passion for Coffee and Service
In the late 1970s, Buddy Brunson embarked on a mission to redefine coffee service in the Southeast. Driven by an unrelenting work ethic and a passion for delivering quality, Buddy invested in a Coffee Butler franchise, bringing reliable coffee service to businesses across Raleigh, North Carolina. At a time when the industry relied on simple pour-over brewers and household names like Folgers and Maxwell House, Buddy saw an opportunity to elevate the coffee experience.
Through dedication and a commitment to excellence, Buddy expanded his Coffee Butler franchise, quickly building a reputation for dependable service and quality products. This laid the groundwork for what would become Capitol Coffee—a company focused on exceeding customer expectations.
Growing Through Innovation and Teamwork
As coffee culture evolved in the 1980s and 1990s, Capitol Coffee adapted to meet new demands. The company expanded its offerings to include specialty coffee and advanced brewing equipment, moving beyond the traditional models that dominated the market.
With an eye on emerging technologies, Capitol Coffee introduced solutions that streamlined service for its customers. Businesses no longer saw Capitol Coffee as just a coffee supplier - it became a trusted partner for breakroom essentials, including snacks, beverages, and janitorial supplies.
Capitol Coffee’s growth wasn’t just about the Brunson family - it was fueled by a dedicated team that shared the same values of hard work, quality, and service. Over time, the company became more than just a business - it became a family.
Innovation Meets Tradition
When Charles and Ben Brunson took the reins of Capitol Coffee, they carried forward their father’s values while adding their own vision. Their leadership ushered in a new era of innovation and expansion, marked by the company’s acquisition of S&D Coffee - a strategic move that allowed Capitol Coffee to offer even more value to its customers.
Recognizing the need for modern solutions, the brothers expanded into vending services and autonomous retail markets, introducing cutting-edge technology to transform breakrooms and retail spaces. The introduction of fully autonomous micro-markets and advanced inventory management software positioned Capitol Coffee as an industry leader, capable of serving clients of all sizes.
The Birth of Lil Red Roaster
In 2021, Charles and Ben Brunson launched Lil Red Roaster, an in-house coffee roastery dedicated to crafting custom blends and specialty roasts. Inspired by the family’s legacy and driven by a desire to provide tailored coffee experiences, Lil Red Roaster represents the pinnacle of Capitol Coffee’s expertise.
Through Lil Red Roaster, clients enjoy access to premium, high-altitude coffee sourced from trusted farms and roasted to perfection. The white-label program empowers businesses—hotels, offices, and retail spaces alike—to create their own branded coffee, strengthening customer loyalty and enhancing their identity.
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Coffee Crafted For You
Today, Lil Red Roaster is a reflection of what consumers value most: quality, sustainability, and authenticity. From our responsibly sourced beans to our artisanal roasting process, every cup embodies the principles that drive modern coffee culture. We’re proud to deliver not just a product, but an experience that connects people to the moments that matter.
Powered by Family, Backed by Innovation
Today, Capitol Coffee serves thousands of clients across the Southeast, offering solutions that extend far beyond coffee. The company’s full suite of services includes:
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Premium coffee and specialty roasts
Advanced brewing systems and espresso machines
Water and ice dispensers
Cold brew and keg services
Snacks, beverages, and autonomous retail solutions
Janitorial supplies and breakroom essentials
What sets Capitol Coffee apart is its people. From Buddy Brunson’s unwavering work ethic to the leadership of Charles and Ben, the company’s strength lies in its team - a family of employees who share a passion for excellence and a commitment to serving their clients. Together, they uphold the values that have driven Capitol Coffee for over four decades.
A Commitment to the Future
As Capitol Coffee continues to grow, its mission remains clear: to honor the legacy of hard work and innovation while embracing the future. By combining cutting-edge technology with a steadfast dedication to quality, the Capitol Coffee team is poised to meet the evolving needs of its clients for years to come.
Ready to experience the Capitol Coffee difference?
Contact us today to learn more about how we can elevate your space.