**Peet's Coffee: A Pioneer in Specialty Coffee** Peet's Coffee, founded by Alfred Peet in 1966, is a leading specialty coffee roaster and retailer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. The company revolutionized the U.S. coffee scene by introducing darker roasted Arabica coffee, setting a new standard for quality and flavor. Peet's first store, located in Berkeley, California, initially sold coffee beans rather than brewed cups, emphasizing the importance of fresh, high-quality beans. **History and Key Achievements** Alfred Peet, known as the "grandfather of specialty coffee," grew up in the Netherlands learning the coffee trade from his father. His dissatisfaction with American coffee led him to open Peet's Coffee, which became a hub for coffee innovation. Notably, three young entrepreneurs—Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker—trained under Peet before founding Starbucks in 1971. Peet's influence extended beyond its own brand, as it played a significant role in shaping the American coffee culture. In 1979, Peet sold his business to Sal Bonavita and remained involved until 1983. Jerry Baldwin acquired Peet's in 1984, and in 2012, it was bought by JAB Holding. The company has since expanded, acquiring notable brands like Stumptown Coffee Roasters in 2015. **Current Status and Notable Aspects** Today, Peet's Coffee operates several hundred locations, including licensed outlets on many campuses. It is recognized as a global leader in the coffee industry, with a strong focus on quality and sustainability. Peet's is also part of JDE Peet's, a global coffee and tea company that positions it as the world's largest coffee company by sales. The company's commitment to dark roasting and artisanal techniques continues to define its brand identity, making it a beloved choice among coffee aficionados worldwide.