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For nearly 30 years, Sue McGovern Downward has called Cabo San Lucas home. Originally from San Francisco, with roots in Marin and Santa Cruz County, Sue and her husband, Ted, took a leap of faith in the early ’90s, moving to Mexico and launching several businesses. Their entrepreneurial journey began with Paradise Properties, a real estate firm, alongside a construction and property management company. But in 2006, their path took a bold and unexpected turn—into the world of coffee.
Building an Iconic Cabo Brand
Cabo Coffee Company had already been in operation for three years when Ted recognized its potential. Initially unsure, Sue took full control of the business in 2009, shaping it into one of Cabo’s most recognized coffee brands. “I didn’t start it, but I can honestly say that I built it,” she reflects.
Running a business in Mexico presented unique challenges, from navigating labor laws to maintaining high-quality supplies and equipment. Despite the hurdles, Sue’s resilience and dedication paid off. Today, Cabo Coffee Company is a staple of the local and expat communities, with two prime locations—one in Plaza Nova and another in downtown Cabo, overlooking the picturesque Amelia Wilkes Park.
The Secret to Cabo Coffee’s Success
Cabo Coffee is celebrated for its rich, organic coffee sourced from the Sierra Madre mountains in Oaxaca. The beans are shade-grown, organic, and ethically harvested, ensuring top-tier quality. Under Sue’s leadership, the business has expanded to include in-house baking and natural frappe powders, further strengthening the brand’s commitment to authenticity and excellence.
Beyond its cafés, Cabo Coffee is now stocked in major retailers like Walmart and La Comer, making it easily accessible across Baja California. In an exciting expansion, Sue recently launched an online store, allowing U.S. customers to experience the flavors of Cabo from afar. “It’s exciting to see our coffee travel,” she says, recounting stories of customers gifting Cabo Coffee to friends worldwide.
What’s Next? Franchising & Future Growth
With continued growth, Sue has her sights set on franchising—an opportunity to expand Cabo Coffee while preserving its core values. Looking ahead, she envisions sharing the Cabo Coffee experience with even more communities, ensuring the brand remains synonymous with quality and connection.
For those dreaming of relocating to Cabo and starting a business, Sue offers invaluable advice: Embrace the culture, be patient, and build genuine relationships. Success in Cabo isn’t just about business—it’s about becoming part of the community.
