The Coffee Community

The coffee community is generally made up of thousands of independent, small, family owned coffee farms. These farmers have been supported, to varying degrees by local government and non-government organizations. The Colombian Coffee Federation would be a good example of a local organization which has invested in the development of the brand while investing the returns in income stability, infrastructure, and education and quality of life improvements for its growing community. Trades indicated a strong growth in the development of the Fair Trade Coffee within coffee consuming countries, combined with consumer demand for Organic coffees.

The Fair Trade Organization ensures minimum prices and developmental support for the independent coffee farmers and their local organizations. This enables the local community to invest in infrastructure improvements, educational programs and to maintain income stability. This program requires certification and monitoring at all levels — from farmer to importer to producer participants. Organic coffee programs have expanded in recent months and the control of pesticide use and natural growing methods will have a positive impact on our environment. Consumer support and demand for these products will grow in the market and in our product portfolio.Under previous ownership, we supported Kid’s Help Phone and various other youth related organizations and programs.