The specialty coffee industry faces a significant wealth disparity, where economically advantaged producers can more easily invest in their farms, innovate, and access new markets, while many smallholder farmers live below the poverty line. This article explores the complexities of this disparity, including historical factors like colonial trade models and the difficulty of accessing capital. It also highlights the importance of co-operatives and alternative trade models in helping smallholders gain market access and improve their livelihoods. The discussion includes insights from Ted Fischer, author of "Making Better Coffee," and Chad Trewick, head of green coffee at Azahar Coffee Company, who both emphasize the necessity of supporting small-scale producers to ensure a sustainable future for the industry.
Enjoying the read? Subscribe for free to one of the fastest-growing newsletters and get weekly coffee news (TL;DR updates) delivered right to your inbox.