From Dream to Vision
ONE MAN’S DREAM ~ Pedro Caballero immigrated to the USA from Paraguay in search of opportunity. But when he left his country behind, he also left behind beloved traditions that had been passed down through the generations from his Guaraní ancestors. And that’s how the first thoughts of what was to become Tukã came to pass ~ from Pedro’s desire to recapture the yerba mate traditions of his youth, along with all of its mystique and ritual. It’s not that yerba mate wasn’t available in the States. But the taste ~ the quality ~ the experience ... it did not live up to his memories. So, inspired by traditional family recipes, he worked tirelessly until he developed something truly special. And that’s when Pedro began to envision a much larger opportunity, not just for himself, but for his fellow countrymen as well.
ONE MAN’S VISION ~ Jim Costello wasn’t looking for a business opportunity when he met Pedro, but something about Pedro’s story spoke to him. The parallels between Pedro’s yerba mate journey and that of Michael Browne, who with Jim’s help became a founder of the highly acclaimed Kosta Browne Wines, were impossible to ignore. The intensity, drive and creativity were identical ~ the difference was the medium. Pedro had developed a proprietary blend of yerba mate as a side hustle while working as a Branch Manager at Wells Fargo Bank. Pedro’s side business, developed on a shoestring, began to grow organically through word of mouth and social media, eclipsing his ability to manage it effectively on a part-time basis. A confirmed coffee drinker, Jim found himself almost unconsciously trading his daily coffee for the less jarring and longer lasting lift provided by Pedro’s naturally caffeinated yerba mate concoction. The gears started turning as he became increasingly interested in helping Pedro pursue his dream. After sharing the product with any number of friends and family and witnessing an enthusiasm that matched his own, Jim’s plans went into overdrive.
DREAM & VISION COMBINE IN TUKÃ ~ a company driven by…
Respect ~ for our farmers and partners, our people, and our planet
Sustainability ~ meeting our own needs while positively impacting future generations through carbon neutrality, water conservation and social responsibility
Long Term Commitment ~ building, improving and maintaining a USDA certified organic supply chain