Responsibility in the procurement chain extends near and far
Demand for coffee outstripping supply, the prevailing small size of plantations, climate change, and the growing interest of consumers in the conditions in which coffee is produced, all constitute challenges to players in the coffee chain. Smallholders produce more than 70% of the world’s coffee.
Their expertise, their welfare and their interest in coffee cultivation are of great importance to the future of the entire sector. Responsibility is an increasingly important factor in securing the world’s coffee output.
Paulig’s goal is to safeguard the responsibility of all of it’s coffee products the coffee it produces throughout the production chain, from bean to cup. This is a challenging job, requiring vigilance and constant improvements in working methods. The bulk of Paulig’s procurements consist of green coffee, but other materials, products and services are also purchased. Paulig deploys effort in strategic partnerships with suppliers, who are selected on more detailed criteria than before. All procurements are subject to common purchasing practices and guidelines.
The importance of responsibility certification is growing in promoting the coffee sector’s sustainable development. The sector’s leading certification programmes are UTZ CERTIFIED, Fairtrade, Organic that are used by Paulig and Rainforest Alliance. Learn more about these certifications.
As part of developing its responsibility, Paulig joined the 4C association in early 2013. 4C is a joint project by coffee farmers, export and import companies, manufacturers and NGOs aimed at promoting sustainable development in coffee production. www.4c-coffeeassociation.org