DI BELLA COFFEE TEACHES MINISTER THE DAILY GRIND

Bowen Hills-based Di Bella Coffee has become one of Brisbane’s most successful enterprises just four years after it was established.

Minister for State Development John Mickel today visited the Di Bella Coffee factory to learn the fine art of making a real cup of coffee and to congratulate Phillip Di Bella for creating what is now one of Australia’s four major coffee companies.

“The Di Bella story is one that demonstrates how following your dream can take you to great heights as long as you have the talent and determination to make it work,” Mr Mickel said.

“Phillip had 11 years experience in the coffee industry, and a marketing degree under his belt, when he struck out on his own and at 27 years of age started Di Bella Coffee.

“Some may have seen it as a gamble, especially when he sold his home and began living in a spare office at the Bowen Hills factory, but Phillip backed himself and won.

“The proof is in the fact that he was recently named in the 2006 BRW Young Rich List and later this month, Di Bella Coffee will feature in the BRW Fast 100 – a list of the fastest growing small and medium-sized businesses in Australia.”

Mr Mickel said that Di Bella Coffee’s turnover has increased by 130 per cent in the last 12 months and the number of employees has jumped from 5 to 20. The company now supplies 600 cafes Australia-wide and also retails through its website and three signature cafes in Brisbane.

“This is the kind of business that really cements Queensland’s reputation as the ‘SmartState’,” Mr Mickel said.

“Di Bella products are now being sold in Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, Singapore and New Zealand and the business encompasses many of the products and accessories associated with coffee, including coffee machines.

“The company also offers factory tours, master classes, professional barista training and machine maintenance. Phillip has cleverly cornered the market and that’s what makes his business unique.”

Mr Mickel used his visit to remind Di Bella Coffee, and other go-ahead Queensland companies that the Beattie Government can provide support and encouragement on a number of levels.

“Three years ago, the Department of State Development created a Processed Foods and Renewable Fuels Unit to help smart Queensland food manufacturers grow their business,” he said.

“One way this support is offered is by providing financial and practical assistance for companies like Di Bella Coffee participate in key food industry trade exhibitions.

“Just last month, for example, Di Bella Coffee was one of 14 Queensland specialty food manufacturers given the opportunity to exhibit on the Queensland Government display at Fine Food Australia 2006 in Melbourne.

“This event attracted more than 30,000 Australian and international trade buyers and around 900 exhibitors of the latest food, drink, equipment and services from around the globe.”

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Media Contacts: Chris Brown 3224 7349 or Elouise Campion 3224 6784

Company contact: Phillip Di Bella (07) 3252 5858 www.dibellacoffee.com.au