You might know Rook Coffee by their instantly recognizable logo or the delicious selection of premium coffees served at their 11 locations across Monmouth County and in nearby Point Pleasant. But did you know Rook is also a local leader in sustainability? Both Rook Coffee and local pet café, Doggie Sweets, were recently honored by the city of Long Branch as Certified Green Businesses. The two qualified under the city’s new Green Business Recognition program that highlights and promotes local businesses and non-profits that are committed to environmental stewardship and use sustainable practices in their daily operations, such as actions that reduce energy or water use, reduce pollution or waste, increase recycling, or otherwise support the environment.
“I am delighted to be able to recognize both Rook and Doggie Sweets with our Green Business Certification,” said Mayor John Pallone. “Long Branch values protecting our natural resources and with this program we want to demonstrate that business success and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. These two businesses are great examples.”
Initially launched in 2020 as an online treat store, Doggie Sweets opened their pet café in May 2022, and expanded to their current Pier Village location in June 2023. With the new construction, owner Patricia Dill took the opportunity to build out the interior following sustainable design principles, including energy star lighting, programmable thermostats, energy efficient appliances and low flow toilets. Doggie Sweets recently met the rigorous standards for inclusion on the NJ State Sustainable Business Registry.
At Doggie Sweets, store displays are made from recycled treat tags which are collected in a recycle bin at the store after purchase. Products are selected that minimize packaging, and some bowls and mats are made of recycled plastic. Checkout bags are also recyclable, and any pet food nearing expiration is donated. A small family business, the owner and some of her staff carpool to work, and the location is set up to encourage customers to walk or bike to the store.
Doggie Sweets Waggin’ (food truck) participates in 50+ festivals throughout the year, and the store runs its own fun events like puppy pictures with Santa, egg hunts on the beach, and more. Delight your dog (or cat) with a healthy treat from Doggie Sweets! The shop is located at 15 Morris Avenue, Unit 119, across from the Wave Hotel in Pier Village. Follow them on Facebook at DoggieSweets or Instagram at @doggiesweets.
At Rook’s Third Avenue offices and roastery, sustainability is considered at every step. For deliveries to their retail stores, Rook uses cleverly designed reusable folding boxes. The burlap sacks that coffee beans come in are donated and reused in local parks and gardens, as is the chaff (coffee bean skins) left over from roasting the beans. Pallets get recycled to an oyster farm, the burlap bag liners are returned to the manufacturer for recycling and the packaging for the roasted coffee sold at Rook’s retail locations is made from a sustainably sourced sugar-based product. Rook uses paper-based packing tape and recycled cotton package liners for mail order shipments, ‘green’ cleaning supplies, and all lighting is LED with self timers. Rook also uses local providers where possible for merchandise, supplies and even dairy products. And their premium coffees support growers who invest in sustainable farming practices.
Founded in 2010 by local Shore Regional grads Holly Migliaccio and Shawn Kingsley, the business has continued to grow steadily. Marc Hindman, Rook’s Director of Brand Strategy, is continuing to explore ways to reduce their environmental footprint, such as options for recycling the coffee grounds the roastery creates. Follow Rook on Instagram at @rookcoffee or Facebook at rookcoffee, or, better yet, grab a cup of their famous brew at their shop at 700 Joline Ave, or the location nearest you.
If you own or manage a Long Branch business, consider applying for the Green Business Recognition Program. All businesses that apply will receive a consultation from the city’s Office of Community and Economic Development and the Green Team. Those who do not yet qualify for certification will receive guidance on how they can improve their sustainable business practices. Additional information and applications are available on the Long Branch City website.