The coffee supply chain is extremely complex. Around 25 million smallholders depend directly on coffee farming for their livelihoods, and a further 100 million people around the world are involved in the coffee trade. Coffee has become the second most traded commodity in the world after oil and is traded in the futures markets of London and New York.
In recent years the coffee market has suffered from cyclical price fluctuations related to supply and demand. These have had a negative impact on the incomes of many farmers and their communities. But for those farmers who produce so-called ‘specialty’ or gourmet grade coffees, prices have remained more stable, and even increased, due to the growing demand for high quality coffees.
Nespresso buys only speciality grade coffees, and even then only about 10-20% of speciality coffee matches our precisely defined taste and aroma profile. As a fast growing roaster in this premium specialty coffee sector it is important for us to ensure that there is a consistent supply of these coffees in the future. By encouraging and rewarding farmers to grow such coffee we, they, and our Club Members will benefit from the long-term commitment to highest quality.
