George Howell, the 'Godfather of Specialty Coffee', Celebrates 50 Years in the Industry

The pioneering coffee roaster and founder of The Coffee Connection reflects on his legacy and the future of the industry.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

At 81 years old, George Howell is still seeking perfection in the world of specialty coffee. As the founder of the influential Coffee Connection chain and a driving force behind the 'third wave' of coffee culture, Howell has left an indelible mark on the industry. From introducing light roasts to the Northeast to launching the Cup of Excellence competition, Howell's innovations have shaped the modern coffee landscape. Now, as he celebrates 50 years in the business, the self-described 'godfather of specialty coffee' continues to push the boundaries, focusing on everything from innovative packaging to preserving the best coffee bean varieties in the face of climate change.

Why it matters

Howell's story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in shaping an industry. His early embrace of light roasts and direct trade with farms helped usher in the era of specialty coffee that now dominates the market. As the coffee landscape has become more competitive, Howell's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has kept him at the forefront, inspiring a new generation of roasters and baristas.

The details

Howell got his start in the coffee business in the 1960s and 70s, when he and his wife moved to Boston and were appalled by the poor quality of coffee in the city. He opened the first Coffee Connection cafe in Harvard Square in 1975, offering French press coffee and light roasts from the company's Burlington roastery. Despite early challenges, including several fires in the roasting process, the Coffee Connection grew to 24 locations throughout the Northeast. Howell sold the company to Starbucks in 1994 for over $20 million, but remained active in the industry, launching the influential Cup of Excellence competition that helped elevate the profile of specialty coffee. In 2004, Howell opened his own roastery in Acton, Massachusetts, and has since expanded to five George Howell Coffee cafes around Boston.

  • Howell opened the first Coffee Connection cafe in Harvard Square in 1975.
  • Howell sold the Coffee Connection to Starbucks in 1994.
  • Howell opened his own roastery in Acton, Massachusetts in 2004.
  • Howell opened the first George Howell Coffee cafe in 2012.
  • Howell is celebrating 50 years in the coffee business this week.

The players

George Howell

The 81-year-old founder of The Coffee Connection and George Howell Coffee, who is considered the 'godfather of specialty coffee' for his pioneering work in introducing light roasts and direct trade with farms.

Jennifer Howell

Howell's daughter and the vice president of George Howell Coffee.

Matt Roberts

The founder of the Gloucester coffee company Cometeer, who describes Howell as a singular figure in the coffee industry.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“People will credit him with serving the first Frappuccinos, but I think he's way more proud of establishing the Cup of Excellence.”

— Matt Roberts, Founder, Cometeer (wbur.org)

“The person who criticizes George Howell the most in the industry is George Howell. He just never settles for perfection.”

— Matt Roberts, Founder, Cometeer (wbur.org)

“I see a gorgeous sunset, I've got to drag you in to take a look at it. That's what drives me.”

— George Howell (wbur.org)

What’s next

Howell is scheduled to appear at Lovestruck Books in Harvard Square on Saturday for a talk and tasting event to celebrate his 50 years in the coffee business.

The takeaway

George Howell's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has made him a towering figure in the specialty coffee industry. As he prepares to retire, his legacy serves as an inspiration for the next generation of coffee roasters and entrepreneurs who seek to push the boundaries of what's possible in this dynamic and ever-evolving field.