Direct Trade Coffee

Direct Trade Coffee, also known as relationship coffee, is the process by which Electric City Roasting purchases their coffee directly from the grower. By doing so Electric City Roasting is able to help reduce the impoverishment of the grower and laborer, by ensuring that 80% of the price paid for the coffee goes directly to the farm.

This price, which is typically 25% above and beyond the required Fair Trade value, thereby ensures that the farms are able to take part in sustainable practices - environmental and social - that exceed the expectations of Fair Trade. Such practices include utilizing proper growing techniques and equipment to increase sustainability of the crop; and sustainable social practices, like supplying workers with housing, electricity, spring water, farm crops, school scholarships, access to medicine, and more.

Direct Trade Coffee also means that the specialty coffee you purchase from Electric City Roasting Company has complete traceability. Unlike other sellers, we know who we buy from and what beans we buy. After all, we tour the farms and meet with the growers. So sit back and enjoy a wonderful cup of Direct Trade Coffee, knowing you are helping to support the supply of superior coffee and assisting us in Closing the Loop of Social Responsibility.

If you have a question about roasting specialty coffee, please contact our SCAA certified cupper, Mary Tellie, at the Electric City Roasting blog.