After 36 years as a family-owned roaster of specialty coffees, Schuil Coffee Co. was purchased in late June by Timothy Volkema, a West Michigan native and entrepreneur. Volkema purchased the company from Greta Schuil, who remains with the company during the transition. Volkema said the business will continue as a closely-held family business with no debt. The 10-person full-time staff of Schuil Coffee also remained with the company following the purchase.
Schuil sells its coffees, teas and related products through several channels, including wholesale, private label, retail and corporate accounts. The company also sells products and provides brewing equipment and accessories directly to businesses and other organizations, and operates a retail store at its roasting facility and warehouse at 3679 29th Street SE in Grand Rapids.
Varnum represented Volkema in the matter, negotiating the purchase agreement, providing due diligence and environmental counseling, negotiating a lease agreement, and advising on employee benefit matters. Varnum also provided patent and trademark filings associated with the purchase. Varnum’s team included Pete Roth and Nick Heinz (M&A and corporate), Stacey George (real estate), Erin O’Rourke and Jodi Russo (due diligence searches and USPTO filings).