Our Story
The Visionary Roots
In the 1980s, St. Clair Shirley returned to Jamaica with a fervent desire to contribute at the grassroots level. The Shirley family already owned an estate in Shirley Castle, Portland, dedicated to the cultivation of bananas and cattle. But it was St. Clair’s pioneering spirit that led him to transform over 150 acres of the estate into a thriving coffee plantation. This move set the stage for the future of Stoneleigh Coffee.
The Collaborative Effort
At the time, exporting coffee from Jamaica was a complex endeavor, governed by stringent regulations set by the Jamaica Coffee Board. A farmer hoping to export needed to produce a significant quantity—10,000 boxes of coffee. Undeterred by this challenge, St. Clair Shirley rallied a group of like-minded farmers, forming a united front. Together, they worked to meet export criteria, and from this collective effort, a company was born.
As the industry evolved, so too did the landscape of their operations. The group eventually disbanded, but it laid the foundation for the creation of what would become the cornerstone of our heritage—Jamaica Coffee Corporation Ltd.
A Commitment to Excellence
Driven by a commitment to excellence, St. Clair and his family continued to expand and innovate. The acquisition of additional estates and the establishment of Stoneleigh Coffee Processors Ltd. in 2009 marked a pivotal moment in the family’s journey. This state-of-the-art facility was built with one goal in mind: to ensure the highest standards of coffee processing, from bean to roast. The meticulous care taken at every stage of production became the hallmark of Stoneleigh Coffee’s promise to its customers.
The Final Touch
In 2011, recognizing the importance of completing the coffee circle and bringing the full coffee experience to their loyal customers, St. Clair Shirley, alongside his sons David and Stephen, ventured into the world of roasted products. This marked a defining moment for the family business, as it added the final touch to their comprehensive approach to the coffee industry. Today, the Shirley family’s legacy continues through St. Clair’s sons, David and Stephen Shirley, who passionately oversee the day-to-day operations of Stoneleigh Coffee. Together, they ensure that the vision of their father lives on, maintaining the same dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability that has always been at the core of the Stoneleigh Coffee brand.
Stoneleigh Coffee Today
Stoneleigh Coffee is more than just a product; it’s a story of family, community, and agricultural innovation.
It is a tribute to the hard work of generations, from the fertile lands of the Blue Mountains to the flavorful cups enjoyed by coffee enthusiasts around the world.
Each sip carries the legacy of St. Clair Shirley’s pioneering spirit and the unwavering commitment of the entire Shirley family.
Join Us in Our Journey
Stoneleigh Coffee invites you to savor the culmination of decades of expertise, passion, and
innovation in every cup. We are proud to share our story with you and to bring a piece of
Jamaica’s rich coffee culture to your table.
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