94. Nolo LTD

Founders: Pierre Darnton, Max Darnton, and Tanner Johnston
Year founded: 2021
Website: wearenolo.com

As the popular office proverb goes: “don’t talk to me until I’ve had my coffee”. It’s a phrase that tells us something of the UK’s love for the coffee bean.

Many of us are trying to turn down our next mug, however, due to the negative side effects of caffeine. These can include restlessness, heart palpitations, and dizziness. Some also can’t drink it due to medical reasons, including pregnancy or hypersensitivity.

For decades, brands have tried to have their coffee and drink it by offering a decaf alternative alongside their main product. But, these unfocused efforts haven’t hit the spot for those who enjoy a cup of joe without the jazzhands. 

Enter Nolo, the first entirely caffeine-free coffee brand to hit the market. Following in the footsteps of no-low alcohol brands carving out a growing corner of the drinks market, Nolo’s iced latte line is well-positioned to serve a new kind of customer with better-for-you drinks. 

The company’s range of products is on a mission to meet the needs of health-conscious consumers. Nolo offers delicious and refreshing beverages that avoid energy crashes, improve sleep, and lead to better gut health.

Founders Pierre, Max, and Tanner say they tested over 250 recipes to find a blend of decaf that tasted great and was available in big supply. 

The trio have landed on a golden blend, made with high-quality Arabica beans and carefully decaffeinated using a process that preserves the flavour of the coffee. Plus, all of Nolo’s decaf coffees are low in sugar, calories, and artificial ingredients.

Nolo’s flagship product is its range of ready-to-drink decaf coffees. But, this convenience does not equal carelessness; Nolo is also committed to reducing its environmental impact, with all its packaging made from 100% recyclable materials.

In five years’ time, Nolo says it will have expanded into the US and the Middle East, to become a global leader in the healthy drinks market. If the Nolo founders can pull off these ambitions, they’ll be some clever beans, indeed.