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WILTON, Conn. - The startup Internet-based Solude Coffee is creating jobs in tough economic times as well as working with its customers to give back to the community through donations to nonprofit organizations.
Co-founder Gareth Forsey of Wilton, who started the company six months ago with Raye Forsey of Wilton and David Martin of Westport, is equally proud of the product and its philanthropic approach to business.
With each purchase, the company donates 20 percent to a charity of the customer’s choice, Forsey said.
Currently, Solude works with 17 charitable causes in the region, including the Wilton YMCA, Circle of Care, The Wilton Playshop and the ALS Association.
The business is all about providing gourmet coffee while supporting good causes, charities and strengthening the economy, he said.
Solude recently partnered with Veronica Sandulo, owner of The Batter’s Box in Norwalk, to promote the business and raise funds for local baseball clubs and charities, Forsey said.
He has 20 consultants who work with the clientele and charitable organizations, Forsey said. He said he hopes to continue hiring as the business grows.
“The coffee is only sold through consultants, and this is a great way for people to find work,” he said.
After a long corporate career, Forsey decided to take a break to pursue a more “fulfilling experience” and study theology.
With that experience, he was able to work with his co-founders to start a business with a fresh idea and a goal of being sustainable and profitable.
“We have seen something happening here, and we are starting to pull all that together,” Forsey said.
On its website, Solude offers gourmet and everyday coffees, specials, packages and gift baskets.
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