Abandoned in his neighbour's backyard, and hidden underneath a weathered tarp, was the key to Dave Upshaw’s future – a 1956 Shasta camper trailer. 

Dave paid $1,000 for the small, derelict trailer that was set to become one of Kelowna’s favourite hot spots for excellent coffee, Canoe Coffee Roasters.

“I’d worked in various roasteries across Vancouver before moving back to Kelowna,” said Upshaw. “When I came back to Kelowna, I couldn’t find any coffee I liked. So, I started making plans to roast and brew my own coffee.”

With no background in business and no capital, Dave wanted to start small. To avoid the expenses of paying for rent in a building, Dave decided he would start up a coffee roastery from a trailer. After looking across the valley for the perfect fit, he finally found the one. 

Photo Credit: Jen Upshaw

"My wife and I were looking for something vintage,” said Dave. “We learned about the trailer next door and paid $1,000 for it. After we bought the trailer, we started work on the renovations.”

The work required to turn an abandoned trailer into a state-of-the-art coffee shop was extensive. Dave and his wife, Jen Upshaw, replaced parts of the rusty exterior in addition to applying a new coat of paint. Much of the interior was replaced and new counter tops were added.

Photo Credit: Jen Upshaw

In April 2015, Dave opened Canoe Coffee Roasters, which soon became a favourite at the Kelowna Farmer and Crafters Market. The trailer is always stocked with freshly roasted coffee and accompanied by a line-up of coffee enthusiasts.

Photo Credit: Jen Upshaw

Dave is concerned with providing delicious, finely crafted coffee that is ethically sourced.

“We get all of our coffee beans through a process called ‘direct trade," said Upshaw. “Direct trade goes above and beyond fair trade; it ensures that the farmer doesn’t just get the bare minimum payment, it pays the farmer enough to get the money they deserve.”

Each and every one of Dave’s coffee bags, which can be bought online, say what country the beans come from, in addition to which farm they were grown at. Some of the bags even mention the farmer themselves. Dave works with West Coast Coffee Traders to ensure that he always receives coffee that benefits the farmer, their employees and the surrounding community and environment.

“Many in Kelowna, especially those who frequent the Farmers Market, care about where their food and drink come from. It’s part of a movement to ensure we’re following ethical consumption habits. Plus, this leads to better coffee. When a farmer is being paid fairly, they care more about the coffee beans. This means the coffee tastes better.”

Dave also works tirelessly to ensure his coffee is the highest quality. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, Dave prepares for the Farmers Market by waking up at 4 a.m. to freshly roast a batch of coffee. Dave prides himself on providing coffee that is always fresh, as his beans are usually roasted only two days before being served. Some of the product is served at the Farmer's Market, some is delivered to online purchasers and some is delivered to coffee shops in town, such as Third Space Coffee Co.  

“My favourite part is serving great coffee,” said Upshaw. “Everyday I get to share my passion and see people’s happiness as they taste my hard work. I’ve had so many careers across my life and this one genuinely makes me happy.”

Dave is very excited to be expanding Canoe Coffee Roasters. He is currently working on a new retail store that will be located in the Fruit Packing District. Upon opening, Dave welcomes people to come by, purchase coffee and learn about the various steps required to make great coffee.

To stay up-to-date with Canoe Coffee Roasters, Dave invites you to check out their social media channels including Facebook and Instagram. To see more pictures of the renovation of their trailer, or to order coffee online, check out their website.

Photo Credit: Jen Upshaw