We now represent over 60 arabica coffees, some from countries we only recently learned to locate. We've come to realize that many farmers around the world will grow and select specialty coffee for people with refined tastes who will pay an above average price for a superior coffee. Farmers have learned they can reap rewards by growing specialty coffee. The farms receive more for their best crops and can afford to pay their workers more. They know that the best coffee develops slowly undermanaged shade trees that provide homes for migratory birds.
Numerous farms can now afford organic methods of fertilization and pest control.
This lowers soil erosion and improves worker health. Better coffee results from these improvements. For years, coffee was sold for lower and lower prices which resulted in poor agricultural practices and even worse cup quality. The per capita consumption of coffee declined. About 20 years ago, specialty coffee came to the United States through efforts of pioneers like George Howell, creator of Coffee Connection.