JOHN GORDON

The Founder’s Story: 30 Years in the Making

Engineering the Future of Coffee - Grounded in Three Decades of Experience.

For nearly 30 years, I’ve lived and breathed every stage of the coffee production process, from the first crack of a roast to the complexities of global equipment supply. My focus is entirely on providing roasters with what they actually need: equipment that is smarter, leaner, and built for the realities of a modern production floor.

Having navigated the evolution of roasting technology firsthand, my career has spanned high-level operations and technical innovation. From serving as Operations Manager at Square Mile Coffee Roasters in London to Production & Innovation Manager at Coca-Cola Amatil NZ, I’ve seen where the industry excels and where it falls short. I have also held significant R&D consulting roles for major equipment manufacturers, managing engineering teams and directing mechanical design projects.

After decades of representing global brands, I realized that the "perfect" solution isn't always found in a catalogue—sometimes, it has to be built. This realization led to the creation of Pegasus Coffee Systems and Silverback Coffee Solutions with the focus entirely on providing roasters with what they actually need: equipment that is smarter, leaner, and built for the realities of a modern production floor.

My technical background is battle-tested on the world stage. I am the 2018 New Zealand Barista Champion, a three-time UK Barista Champion, and the 2009 UK Latte Art Champion. Having reached the finals of the World Barista Championship multiple times and successfully coached other professionals to national and world titles, I understand the extreme precision required at the pinnacle of coffee preparation. 

Originally from Melbourne, I now call Auckland home, where I live with my wife and three children. Outside of the roastery, my focus is on spending quality time with my family and staying deeply connected to the coffee industry through continuous learning and innovation.

Our Philosophy: Precision Through Lean Manufacturing

We believe great coffee production begins with great systems. By applying Lean Manufacturing principles to roastery design, equipment selection, and workflow development, we help businesses reduce waste, improve consistency, and increase efficiency.

Whether it's advanced colour sorting technology, or strategic consulting, every solution we provide is built from a deep understanding of the day-to-day realities of coffee production.

Based in New Zealand. Serving the World.

From our base in Auckland, we provide consulting and hardware that balances industrial-grade durability with innovative design. We aren't just a vendor; we are your technical partner in the pursuit of the perfect roast.