Biography of Debbie Mullin: Founder & CEO of Copper Cow Coffee -Entrepreneur
Debbie Mullin: Brewing Success with Copper Cow Coffee
A Passion for Vietnamese Coffee
Debbie Wei Mullin, a Vietnamese-Californian entrepreneur,
always had a deep love for Vietnamese culture, especially its rich and creamy
coffee. Growing up in California, she was inspired by the traditional flavors
her mother introduced her to, leading her to explore ways to bring Vietnamese
coffee to the American market.
Educational and Professional Background
Mullin pursued a degree in Economics from the University of
California, Berkeley, and later earned a Master’s in Urban Studies and Planning
from MIT. Her academic background provided her with strong analytical and
strategic skills, which she later applied to her entrepreneurial journey.
Early Career in Global Development
Before starting her own business, Mullin worked at The World
Bank in New Delhi and Seattle as an Associate and Consultant. Her role focused
on economic development and sustainability, which played a key part in shaping
her future business philosophy.
First Entrepreneurial Venture: Wei Pantry
In 2014, Mullin launched Wei Pantry, a food brand focused on
bringing all-natural, high-quality Vietnamese ingredients to American
consumers. This venture introduced her to supply chain management,
sustainability, and the complexities of scaling a food business.
The Birth of Copper Cow Coffee
In 2017, Mullin set out to introduce Vietnamese coffee to a
wider audience. Initially, she planned to sell bottled Vietnamese cold brew
with condensed milk, but logistical challenges led her to a new idea—single-use
pour-over coffee bags. Inspired by similar innovations in Japan, she launched
Copper Cow Coffee with a $100,000 investment from family and friends.
Innovating the Coffee Experience
Copper Cow Coffee’s pour-over coffee bags allowed customers
to enjoy authentic Vietnamese coffee without requiring expensive brewing
equipment. The brand quickly gained recognition for its convenience, premium
quality, and sustainability-focused approach.
Rapid Growth and Market Expansion
In 2017, Copper Cow Coffee won the Innovation Award at the
Fancy Food Show, which helped the brand enter over 1,000 retail stores. That
year, the company generated $170,000 in sales. Over the next few years, sales
skyrocketed—reaching $500,000 in 2018, $1.6 million in 2019, and $2 million by
2020, with lifetime sales exceeding four million units.
Biography of Debbie Mullin: Founder & CEO of Copper Cow Coffee -Entrepreneur #startup#age#net worth#investor#shark tank#Debbie Mullin story#Copper Cow
A High-Stakes Pitch on Shark Tank
In 2021, Mullin appeared on Season 12, Episode 25 of Shark
Tank USA, seeking a $600,000 investment in exchange for 4% equity. Despite the
impressive sales figures, the sharks were concerned about the company’s
financial struggles.
Shark Tank Investors’ Concerns
Copper Cow Coffee had a 70% profit margin, but high expenses
led to a $1.4 million loss the previous year and projected losses of $700,000
for the year of its appearance on Shark Tank. The company’s valuation of $15
million raised skepticism among the investors, particularly Kevin O’Leary and
Mark Cuban.
A Deal with Robert Herjavec
Despite reservations, Robert Herjavec saw potential in
Copper Cow Coffee and made the only offer: $600,000 for 8% equity. Mullin
accepted, securing a strategic investor to help scale the business further.
Sustainability at the Heart of Copper Cow Coffee
Mullin’s vision extended beyond profits—she aimed to support
Vietnamese coffee farmers and promote sustainable sourcing. Copper Cow Coffee
ensures ethical practices in every step, from farming to packaging.
Expanding Nationwide
Following Shark Tank, the brand continued to grow, expanding
its direct-to-consumer business (DTC) through its website while securing retail
partnerships with Whole Foods, Sprouts, Walmart, HEB, and more.
Core Values Driving Success
Mullin built Copper Cow Coffee on four guiding principles:
"Be a good citizen, bring others along, act like owners, and fail
forward." These values shape the company’s culture and drive its mission.
A Legacy of Innovation and Impact
Through Copper Cow Coffee, Mullin is not only bringing
Vietnamese coffee to American households but also creating a sustainable and
equitable supply chain. Her journey showcases resilience, innovation, and a
passion for making a difference—one cup at a time.
Timeline for story
2014 – Launched Wei Pantry, focusing on Vietnamese
ingredients.
2017 – Founded Copper Cow Coffee with a $100,000 investment.
2017 – Won the Innovation Award at the Fancy Food Show.
2017 – Generated $170,000 in sales and entered 1,000+ retail
stores.
2018 – Sales grew to $500,000.
2019 – Sales reached $1.6 million.
2020 – Sales hit $2 million, with lifetime sales exceeding
four million units.
2021 – Appeared on Shark Tank seeking $600,000 for 4%
equity.
2021 – Secured a deal with Robert Herjavec for $600,000 at
8% equity.
2022 – Expanded nationwide into major retailers like Walmart
and Whole Foods.
2025 – Continued growth and sustainability efforts in
Vietnamese coffee.
