Ethical coffee roaster and equipment supplier Matthew Algie has named Thomas Heinen as its new Managing Director.
Heinen brings over 25 years of leadership experience in the coffee, foodservice, and hospitality equipment industries.
Previously holding senior roles at WMF Group, ITW Cooking Europe, and MEC2 GmbH, Heinen joins the Glasgow-based company during a key period following its integration with German coffee group Tchibo.
This merger united the firms’ coffee roasting, equipment supply, and technical service operations in the UK under a single customer-focused entity.
Heinen, a German national married to a Scot, relocated to Glasgow for the role. He expressed enthusiasm for combining his expertise in coffee machines and services with the new challenge of coffee roasting. “I’ve long admired the Matthew Algie brand – it’s clear there are a lot of great people with strong expertise and passion,” he said.
His appointment reflects Matthew Algie’s ambitions to solidify its position as a leading supplier to the hospitality sector while expanding into the fast-growing coffee-to-go market. Heinen noted that demand for premium, convenient coffee solutions is particularly advanced in the UK and Ireland compared to mainland Europe.
Under his leadership, enhancing customer service is a priority, with plans to add ten engineers to the company’s technical support network. “We offer a complete package — from sourcing to roasting to serving the perfect cup,” he explained.
Heinen also highlighted Matthew Algie’s commitment to sustainability, including eco-friendly upgrades at its Glasgow roastery and its pioneering ethical sourcing practices. “We want to maintain our edge in offering triple certification — Fairtrade, Organic, and Rainforest Alliance — while helping customers meet their own sustainability goals,” he added.
The company continues to serve major clients such as Marks & Spencer, Esquires Coffee, and Hilton Hotels, showcasing its expertise across sourcing, roasting, and equipment servicing.
