Meet Chris Mak, who from the financial service background ventured as an F&B entrepreneur who is also a 4th generation, business owner. We sat down to enjoy a cuppa at their newly launched tasting room. As I was sipping my coffee, Chris and her mom shared their story and passion behind their coffee. It was a fantastic hour with them and let’s start from the beginning.
History
Chris is a fourth generation business owner and coffee literally ran in the blood of her family. It all began with her grandad who used to supply coffee to restaurants and cafes in thailand. He grew a name and reputation for himself and they are still selling that coffee in thailand.
Why THE MAKS’ COFFEE?
I always wonder with new brands that creep up in the market, how do brands stand out! THE MAKS’ COFFEE is nailing it from the beans they use to the way they are brewed and even to the way they are packaged. It is no surprise why they have clinched the packaging of the year awards at the Speciality & Fine Food Asia 2019.
The Process
THE MAKS’ COFFEE beans are made of 100% arabica beans. Here is a quick fact that I learnt while speaking with the ladies. The jittery feeling that one has when drinking coffee can be boiled down to the fact that they are made of robusta beans. The coffees that you usually buy are often loaded with robusta beans, and even some premium coffees tend to be a combination of arabica and robusta beans. It can limit one to not enjoy coffee for fear of feeling anxious throughout the day. Arabica beans taste better because the increase in sugar gives the coffee a better taste, a cleaner mouthfeel, and a decrease in bitterness. There is no acidity. Hence MAKS COFFEE provides the safest concentration of caffeine without the jitters and headaches.
Next THE MAKS’ COFFEE beans are air roasted, which is unlike the traditional drum roasting method. What this means is that the beans are suspended and roasted on a bed of hot atmosphere called the fluid bed which preserve the original flavour while unlocking the best of the bean. It is a healthier alternative as it doesn’t burn the beans, chaff and debris are removed from the coffee beans, and air roasters remove all of the smoke.
Finally, let’s talk about the packaging. THE MAKS’ COFFEE drip coffee won the Best Convenience Packaging at the Asia FOOD innovation awards 2019. Do we need to say more?
The Launch Of THE TASTING ROOM by THE MAKS’ COFFEE
The launch went fantastic and we got a glimpse into the tasting room by THE MAKS’ COFFEE. If you are looking to spend a lazy afternoon learning more about coffee, this is the place to be! You can book your session tasting session slot available from Tuesday to Thursday (10 am – 3 pm).
Image Credit: THE MAKS’ COFFEE 
Image Credit: THE MAKS’ COFFEE
Insights from Chris Mak
How did you come up with the idea for THE MAKS’ COFFEE?
The idea brewed from my hunt for good coffee that does not make me feel jittery.
Did you start the venture alone?
No. Thankfully, I have a bit of support from my family, especially my mother, who is my role model.
What was the hardest part in the early stages of the company’s growth?
Shifting industry from finance into F&B was tough as I needed to learn on the job, and it pushed me to pick up knowledge and skills quickly.
Do you think luck played a role in the success of THE MAKS’ COFFEE?
Definitely. But hard work is also an essential part of making each opportunity happen and succeed.
How has the Coffee industry changed in the last year?
Consumers are becoming more educated and therefore searches for better and healthier options.
What advice would you give to a coffee company just starting their business online?
Never stop learning.
THE MAKS’ COFFEE with their recent launch are well into reaching absolute success and are looking to expand into Southeast Asia in the next three years. How inspiring! If you are looking for a healthier alternative to your regular cuppa or looking to gift someone, check them out here!
