On March 7, 60 coffee professionals and 17 Costa Rican farmers gathered at the Joe Pro Shop for Terra Bean Coffee’s Direct Trade Event, to provide roasters with an opportunity to build direct trade relationships from abroad. The roasters attended in person and the farmers via Skype.

The atmosphere was full of excitement about new direct sourcing opportunities and the chance for roasters and farmers to share the experience and learn from each other! The roasters cupped the coffees and spoke directly with the farmers, at origin. The farmers were given a unique opportunity to market their farms through homemade videos. The roasters were given a glimpse into the farmer’s lives, their farms and a bit of the rich Costa Rican farming history.

A dialogue began, this day, to bridge the gaps in knowledge between those who grow the coffee and those who roast it. The end result— better coffee for those who drink it.

The Direct Trade Event was Terra Bean Coffee’s pilot project to make direct trade easy. The company facilitates direct trade both through events with origin and on an individual basis. Stay tuned for the next event!