Cultivating Sustainability Through Direct Trade

In the world of specialty coffee, Stumptown Coffee Roasters has carved out a niche as a company committed to sustainability and building long-term relationships with coffee producers. Their Direct Trade sourcing model, established by founder Duane Sorenson in 2003, goes beyond simply paying fair prices for high-quality beans.

Direct Trade is a partnership built on transparency, trust, and shared values. Stumptown’s green coffee buyers spend months each year visiting their producer partners, not just to select the best lots but to gain a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities at origin. They walk the coffee fields, observe the processing methods, and share meals with the farmers, forging connections that span years and even decades.

These relationships allow Stumptown to invest in the sustainability of the coffee supply chain at every level. By paying well above commodity prices and committing to long-term contracts, they provide their producer partners with the financial stability needed to plan for the future and implement sustainable farming practices. From supporting the transition to sustainable agriculture to funding projects that improve the quality of life in coffee-growing communities, Stumptown’s Direct Trade model creates shared value for everyone involved.

But sustainability isn’t just about what happens at the origin. Back at Stumptown’s roastery, the focus is on showcasing the unique character of each coffee while minimizing the environmental impact of the roasting process. By investing in energy-efficient equipment and implementing waste reduction strategies, they strive to be responsible stewards of the resources they use.

For Stumptown, sustainability is a journey, not a destination. As the specialty coffee industry continues to evolve, they remain committed to learning, growing, and finding new ways to create positive change. With every sip of Stumptown coffee, you can taste the care and dedication that goes into cultivating a more sustainable future for all.

How To Add Farm Stand products to Your Delivery:
Full Circle members – head on over to our online Farm Stand Market to customize your upcoming delivery. Market is open from noon on Thursday until 6pm on your cutoff date. After you confirm your produce items, click the orange button “Confirm and Continue To Other Farm Products” to add farm products to your delivery.

Not part of our farm family? Find out if we deliver to your neighborhood.