Piñon Coffee president departs after six years

Owner-parents began firm 20 years ago, now one of state’s top roasters

After more than six years with New Mexico Piñon Coffee Co., President Allen Bassett is stepping down.

Matthew Bregar, the company’s controller, will be taking over as company president. The change will take place effective immediately according to Bassett.

New Mexico Piñon Coffee Co. is owned by Bassett’s parents Frank and Cindy Bassett.

The coffee roaster is now one of the largest coffee roasters in the state. According to the company website, Piñon Coffee roasted over 1 million pounds of coffee in 2015.

The roaster started 20 years ago, and under Bassett’s leadership, it has opened two coffee shops call Piñon Coffee House, become the official coffee sponsor of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and now sells packaged coffee in several large national grocers all across New Mexico as well as Costco in Colorado and Trader Joe’s nationwide.

Bassett said his reason for leaving was “a difference in business perspective.” However, he adds that “it was time to strike

out on my own.”

Bassett has worked for his parents off and on since he was 8 years old when he earned his first paycheck by busing tables and taking out the trash for Frank and Cindy’s McDonald’s franchise.

With so much family involved, Bassett is quick to point out that there are “no hard feelings whatsoever” between him and Piñon Coffee company. “I hope they continue to do well and I love every one of the company’s 44 employees.”

The future is a little uncertain for the 33-year-old businessman, but he is excited about his prospects.

“I’m not sure if I am going to start my own company or take on a leadership role with another company,” said Bassett. “I’ve had so many ideas over the years and I’m excited to take some time to pursue those. It’s a blue ocean out there.”