5 Minutes With: James Hagerty, Presto Coffee

What would you be doing if you weren’t in the food industry?
Working in the technology or product development. I would love to invent a product that makes people’s lives better!  

What was your first job?
A labourer on a building site. It was a good eye-opener to what real hard work is. 

What inspires you? 
Doing good for others. Donating coffee bags to the homeless or less fortunate was the highlight of my 2021.  

What’s the worst job you’ve done? 
Posting flyers door-to-door for some much-needed student cash.

What’s your favourite part of the job? 
Tasting coffee. Don’t get me started on how good our House Espresso Blend is. 

And your least favourite? 
I am really, really guilty of not being able to switch off.

How about the food industry? 
I find it inspiring. A group of like-minded entrepreneurs all collectively trying to make people’s lives better through quality food and raising the bar of industry standards.  

Tea or coffee? 
Coffee of course. Love tasting it, trying new blends and exploring coffees from new regions.

What would be your last supper? 
A Mediterranean board – olives, sun-dried tomatoes and fresh bread, yum! – followed by a burger. Lots of cheese, all of the condiments and a plate full of chips! Blackberry and apple crumble with vanilla ice cream for pudding.  

What’s your motto?
“Never give up on something you think about every day.”

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?
Crickets at a food festival a few years ago. Crunchy and bitty. 

What’s your favourite book? 
Start With Why by Simon Sinek.

Sweet or savoury? 
Love sweets. Jelly beans, Jelly Babies and Fruit Pastels are my favourite.