Those who are closely interested in coffee have long known that the taste of the drink will greatly depend on the region and conditions of coffee growing. The path from farm to coffee machine to cup is quite long. It includes coffee sourcing, concluding a contract, transporting the beans and processing them – in the case when green coffee beans were purchased – and after that you can choose one or another blend of coffee in a store or your favorite coffee shop.
Sourcing refers to the process of searching, selecting and acquiring coffee beans from various origins or suppliers to meet the needs of coffee roasters, retailers or consumers. Different regions of the world can provide origin coffee beans, which can differ from one manufacturer to another even within one country. Each manufacturer can produce coffee beans with unique taste characteristics, aroma and quality. Sourcing involves selecting a specific origin that matches the flavor profile of the desired coffee product or the preferences of the target market. sourcing may also involve selecting specific varieties or varieties of coffee based on their unique characteristics. Some varieties are known for special flavor notes or resistance to certain diseases.
Many coffee roasters and specialty coffee producers have direct relationships with coffee farmers or cooperatives. This provides greater transparency, quality control and often better prices for farmers. The way coffee beans are processed (e.g. washed, natural, honey treated) can affect their taste. The quality of purchased coffee is usually assessed by factors such as aroma, consistency, taste, acidity, and aftertaste. Negotiating fair prices for coffee beans is also an integral part of sourcing. This ensures that both coffee producers and coffee buyers are reasonably compensated for their efforts.
Once the coffee beans are received, logistics and transportation play a critical role in getting the beans to their destination. This includes aspects such as shipping, warehousing and ensuring grains arrive in optimal condition.
Maintaining transparency in the coffee supply chain is becoming increasingly important to consumers. Sourcing efforts may include providing information about the origin of the coffee, production methods and the people involved in its journey from farm to cup.
Thus, sourcing coffee beans is a complex process that involves selecting coffee beans based on origin, quality, sustainability, and ethical considerations. This requires a deep understanding of the coffee supply chain, strong relationships with coffee producers, and a commitment to delivering high-quality coffee to consumers.
