2024 Recap | 2025 Lookahead
A Note From Vel Genov
Co-Founder @ Zerno
As we turn the page on 2024, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement.
This year has been a transformative one for Zerno, and it’s all thanks to you—our passionate and ever-growing community.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of this journey. 2024 was a year focused around growth and innovation. We more than doubled our production capacity while reducing our lead times by half. We moved into larger production space(not once, but twice!) while cementing a strong leadership team to guide Zerno’s future.
We also introduced several new products and Z1 upgrades:
Products
New Products include the SSP CV3 blind burr set, slow feed auger & magnetic portafilter holder
Z1 Upgrades
Upgrades include the toothed medium feed auger. single piece anodized chute & improved dosing cup design
2024 was a year of recognition and connection with the specialty coffee community. Here are some highlights:
-Honored as the 2024 Best New Product by the Specialty Coffee Association
-Named an A+ tier grinder by coffee expert Lance Hedrick
-Deep dive into Z1 innovations from Daddy Got Coffee
-Launched a dedicated channel on the Espresso Afficionado Discord
-Finalist for the 2024 Chicago Innovation Awards, earning a spot in the top 100 Chicago Startups
-Engaged with the vibrant Chicago coffee scene through live events
While 2024 was our coming out party, 2025 is positioned to be one where we extend beyond the original vision for the Z1, while staying true to the roots that have gotten us here. We are expanding our product catalog, exploring new partnerships, and increasing production to take the Zerno brand more worldwide.
More than anything—we are doubling down on our commitment to precision, craftsmanship, and community—The values that sit at Zerno’s core.
This next chapter is brimming with opportunity, and we’re thrilled to continue building a future together with you. Thank you for your trust, your enthusiasm, and your shared love of extraordinary coffee. Here’s to a bright, bold, and delicious 2025!