Jason Burton:
After 5 years as a graphic designer and art director, Jason followed his craving for beverages. His first taste for specialty coffee came early while in college in Missouri where the local roaster and coffee shop became a homework spot and meeting place for him. This was 1996, so light years before the world of coffee we live in today.

Professionally, Jason won design awards in St. Louis, Richmond, and New York producing creative from small businesses to a stint as a package designer for Victoria's Secret corporate. His portfolio was mostly within the music, fashion, and food industry covering promotions and illustration. 

After leaving New York in 2004, Jason entered the beverage industry working as Marketing Director for The Roasterie in Kansas City. He later switched to the fine dining experience with an emphasis on craft beverages for Houlihan's Specialty Concept restaurants covering territory from Kansas City to Hartford. He was Brand Manager for the Concept through 2009. During these early years in the industry he also contributed articles to several food and beverage publications, worked on regional drink competitions, and spoke at national conferences. 

Jason started The LAB, formerly known as LAB 5702, in the fall of 2009 out of his home. Almost exactly two years later Caffeine Crawl was launched. The LAB has been recognized as one of the most engaged and consumer-friendly beverage marketing companies in the country. To learn more about The LAB, please visit our site.