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However, it’s crucial to acknowledge a potential direct trade relationship is akin to seeking a compatible The Upstream Approach
pitfall: the temptation for roasters to compromise on partner with whom you wish to invest time and effort.
quality in their pursuit of supporting producers. While Finding the right fit amidst myriad options can be daunt- The complexities and ambiguities inherent in nav-
this may stem from noble intentions, it inadvertently ing.” he said. igating direct trade relationships, as elucidated by Niko
sends the wrong message and perpetuates a cycle where To navigate these complexities, early contract Sunko, find resonance in the multifaceted approach
subpar quality becomes normalized. Transparency miti- agreements and upfront financing play crucial roles. embraced by Upstream Coffee Imports, a coffee import-
gates this risk by ensuring that all parties understand These demonstrate commitment and dedication to the ing company in New South Wales, Australia. While Niko
each other’s business models, fostering mutual trust and relationship, particularly in cases where producers are sheds light on the evolving landscape of ethical sourcing
accountability. Ultimately, this transparency serves as a collaborating on community blends. However, delays in and the challenges of defining and practicing direct trade,
catalyst for sustainable growth and fosters robust foun- payments can compel some producers to resort to selling Upstream’s commitment to transparency, fair compen-
dations for success within the coffee industry. their produce to local middlemen, highlighting the im- sation, and social responsibility serves as a beacon of
When I asked Niko about the main challenges to portance of timely and reliable financial support in
establishing and maintaining direct trade relationships sustaining direct trade relationships. clarity amidst these ambiguities.
During my conversation with Nadia Fernandes, the
between coffee producers and roasters, he pointed out Bell Lane’s and Niko’s meticulous examination of director of Upstream Coffee Imports, her insights shed
that establishing a direct trade relationship poses great- direct trade goes beyond surface-level definitions, delv- light on the multifaceted approach Upstream takes to-
er challenges compared to maintaining one, “This is ing into the evolving landscape of ethical sourcing and wards ethical sourcing, emphasizing the importance of
primarily due to the evolving nature of the relationship the intertwined relationships between roasters, produc- direct trade relationships, fair wages, and social respon-
over time. Imagine the disparity between a conversation ers, and exporters. Niko’s candid reflections underscore sibility initiatives. At the core of Upstream’s ethos lies
with someone you’ve just met versus one with the same the necessity of transparency, accountability, and open a profound commitment to aligning with producers who
person three years later. The depth of understanding communication in fostering genuine and sustainable share similar values. Nadia commented, “We aspire to
and appreciation vastly differs. In essence, forging a direct trade partnerships.
be conscientious with each purchase, actively seeking The Women of Upstream Coffee Imports
alignment with producers with similar values.” This From left: Monica, Nadia, Florencia, Amy & Cara
sentiment underscores the significance of forging part-
nerships based on shared principles, laying the ground-
work for meaningful and sustainable collaborations.
One notable aspect of Upstream’s approach is
their collaboration with B-Corp certified companies.
This strategic alignment ensures that every step of the
supply chain upholds rigorous standards of social and consecutive year, Upstream has been an active partici-
environmental performance, accountability, and trans- pant, joining 114 other contributors in providing essen-
parency. Nadia elaborates, “We work with B-Corp tial data. This comprehensive guide offers an in-depth
certified companies, supporting initiatives such as Bio analysis of over 53,000 contracts, encompassing nearly
Recovery, Carbon Footprint reduction, and communi- 1 billion pounds of green specialty coffee, with a total
ty assistance programs.” value approaching US$2.5 billion.”
The collaboration with B-Corp certified companies Nadia’s words regarding fair prices for coffee farm-
is a testament to Upstream’s dedication to raising the bar ers strike at the heart of one of the coffee industry’s most
for social and environmental standards. By prioritizing pressing challenges. In an industry where volatility in
partnerships with organizations that uphold rigorous coffee prices can jeopardize the livelihoods of farmers,
criteria for sustainability and accountability, Upstream Upstream’s commitment to fair compensation is com-
sets a precedent for the industry as a whole. mendable. By celebrating quality and nurturing long-term
What’s more, fair prices for coffee farmers are relationships built on trust and fairness, Upstream not
non-negotiable for Upstream. Nadia emphasized the only supports coffee farmers but also cultivates a more
company’s prioritization of forging partnerships with resilient and equitable supply chain.
reputable suppliers and exporters, dedicating years to Empowering women in the coffee industry is an-
nurturing long-standing relationships that uphold fair- other cornerstone of Upstream’s mission. Nadia explains,
ness throughout the supply chain, “We believe in work- “We are deeply committed to empowering women in the
ing with individuals and companies whose vision aligns coffee industry.” Nadia shared with me. “Through active
with ours, ensuring mutual respect and shared values. As involvement in organizations like the International
part of our unwavering commitment to transparency and Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA) and providing equal
accountability, we proudly contribute to initiatives like employment opportunities, we champion gender equal-
the Specialty Coffee Transaction Guide. For the fifth ity and foster inclusivity within the industry.”

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