Dart Coffee Launches New Product 'Robusta Coffee Candy' Featuring the Underrated Coffee Bean

Robusta Takes Center Stage

Dart Coffee, a renowned coffee company established in 1958 and based in Wakayama, Japan, is shaking up the coffee scene with the introduction of

'Robusta Coffee Candy'. This innovative treat will be unveiled at the upcoming Gourmet Show Autumn 2026 from September 2 to 4 at the Tokyo Big Sight.

A Sweet Surprise for Coffee Lovers

The new Robusta Coffee Candy aims to elevate the often underestimated robusta bean, commonly seen as a secondary player in the coffee world. Recognized for its strong aroma, full-bodied flavor, and pronounced bitterness, robusta has long supported global coffee consumption through instant varieties, canned products, and blends, yet it has been relegated to a low-cost role in Japan. Dart Coffee is taking an important step to redefine this perception by highlighting the distinct qualities of robusta in a delicious candy form that captures its robust characteristics with a pleasantly smooth sweetness at the end.

Breaking Stereotypes

Traditionally viewed as cheaper and inferior due to past inconsistencies in quality, robusta is often mistaken for a mere substitute for arabica. However, advancements in cultivation and post-harvesting techniques have produced high-quality robusta beans that boast a clean taste and diverse flavor profiles.
Dart Coffee emphasizes that robusta should not just be seen as a replacement for arabica but rather as a unique coffee type. The bold packaging prominently displays the term “Robusta,” challenging the lingering stereotypes associated with this coffee bean.

An Engaging Experience at the Gourmet Show

At the Gourmet Show, attendees can get their first taste of this new candy with free samples available at the Dart Coffee booth (T03-43, East Hall 1). Adding to the excitement, voice actors Ryota Takeuchi and Daisuke Hirakawa will be featured in the promotion of the COFFEE STARS voice drama, set to release in autumn 2026. This multi-faceted approach aims to connect consumers deeply with the robusta bean: from tasting the candy to engaging with its character and story.

Meet Rob and his Story

The character behind the robusta bean, known as 'Rob', encapsulates a strong-willed personality shaped by resilience. Dart Coffee has ingeniously converted the essence of the robusta bean into Rob's persona, embodying strength and an unyielding spirit. His motto, “Even if I sway, as long as I don’t fall, that’s enough,” signifies not only his outlook on life but also serves as a reminder of the robusta bean's untapped potential and individuality.

Product Overview

- Product Name: Robusta Coffee Candy
- Contents: 8 pieces
- Suggested Retail Price: ¥330 (excluding tax)
- Expected Release: Autumn 2026
- Manufacturer: Dart Coffee Co., Ltd.
- Sales Format: Sequential rollout through sales partners.

Collaboration Opportunities

Dart Coffee is actively seeking partnerships to explore the world of COFFEE STARS. Interested companies are encouraged to reach out for potential collaborations, licensing, or co-branding opportunities involving various products. This initiative not only aims to promote COFFEE STARS but also to share the robusta bean’s unique appeal with a broader audience.

Historical Context

Since its inception, Dart Coffee has recognized the robusta bean's potential beyond its reputation. The CEO, Yasuhiro Yamada, shares, “As someone who has been in the coffee industry for a long time, I realize that the robusta bean has often been labeled as 'cheap' or 'not genuine.' However, we believe it's crucial to showcase its distinct qualities and versatility, allowing it to shine as a standalone coffee.”

In conclusion, COFFEE STARS, with its creative storytelling and character-driven approach, is set to introduce coffee enthusiasts to an exhilarating new path of coffee appreciation. This informative and delightful journey starts with the simple act of indulging in a piece of candy, paving the way for a lasting relationship with the robusta bean.