La Marzocco staff member, John Blackwell, saluted staff at a company BBQ in Seattle during the week of SCA Expo.

Through the years John has been a loyal, dedicated and vital technical resource at the company, contributing to the development of new models and the evolution of machine design. In the mid-90s, in an aim to meet the growing demand of Starbucks, he was singly responsible for the development of the La Marzocco factory in Seattle, putting into successful and efficient production 3 and 4 group Linea Classic machines. Moreover, John spearheaded and contributed to the development of the Swift grinder. Its innovative feature that permits grinding, dosing and tamping at the press of one button has more recently been incorporated within the Vulcano Swift. The design of the Vulcano Swift grinder by Piero Bambi is the modernization of Giuseppe Bambi’s original 1968 design, becoming one grinder that brings together three generations, with John representing the third.

John has tirelessly mentored several people both on staff and within the industry and was especially resourceful when espresso was not a household name outside of Italy. He has demonstrated excellent leadership and managerial skills, with very warm, and caring people skills that have touched the lives of La Marzocco staff as well as the lives of countless customers.

The La Marzocco International Board, management and staff wish John the very best and every success for all that lies ahead.