A survey of 2,000 adults found that these stress headaches break down to three times a week and that respondents recalled having brain fog just as often. Reviewing their current stress levels, the survey found that 41% said they’re at their peak stress for the year so far. [Although the survey was among Americans, the symptoms and causes of stress are similar across many countries. For example, according to Euromonitor International’s Voice of the Consumer: Health and Nutrition Survey 2021, globally, stress and anxiety now rank as the second most common health concern. Many of the other top reported issues, including sleeping problems and headaches, tend to be closely linked to high stress levels.]

Results of the new online survey – conducted by Talker Research for Traditional Medicinals between July and August 2024 – showed that while 30% are hopeful that their stress level will go down by the end of the year, a quarter of respondents think there’s a chance it’ll go up (26%). Yet, 45% have never taken a mental health day or sick day from work solely because of stress.

Comparing their stress levels to previous years, 38% of those surveyed said that 2024 has been more stressful than 2023, but less so than 2022 and the preceding years.

What is it about this year that is exacerbating their stress levels? Respondents are worried about their finances (35%), the economy (28%) and their physical health (25%). Others are troubled by the news landscape — particularly the 2024 presidential election (20%) and other world issues (19%), both of which I’m surprised are not higher percentages. In terms of how respondents are combatting these high-intensity moments, results showed that a majority feel overwhelmed during these times (58%).

What’s Stressing Americans Out?

1. Personal finances — 35%
2. The economy — 28%
3. Physical health — 25%
4. Family — 25%
5. Mental health — 24%
6. The 2024 presidential election — 20%
7. The news/world issues — 19%
8. Work — 16%
9. An unexpected life event — 15%
10. Romantic relationship — 13%

In an exclusive article for T&CTJ, “The caffeine paradox: sleep, anxiety and the endless rise in caffeine consumption,” Matthew Barry, insight manager, food & beverage, Euromonitor International, wrote, “Although consumers’ stress and anxiety levels remain high, their desire for caffeine has not waned. In fact, the demand for higher caffeine products is actually rising.”

How can these two clear trends coexist? Why are consumers eager to increase their caffeine consumption while also being concerned with their stress levels and sleep quality? Barry posited that the explanation is found in the caffeine paradox — higher levels of stress and sleep troubles lead, paradoxically, to higher demands for caffeine. “At the core of consumer stress is the desire to accomplish more. And this desire creates more stress, which leads to more caffeine consumption for sufficient energy.”

In the Traditional Medicinals survey, respondents shared that they know they’re stressed when they have trouble sleeping (42%), feel irritable (37%), fatigued (34%), have headaches (33%) or feel worried or paranoid (31%). Other respondents said their stress manifests through an inability to focus (30%), restlessness (29%), racing thoughts (27%), brain fog/mental unclarity (23%), or panic attacks (23%).

“With cold and flu season approaching, self-care and stress management are more important than ever,” said Kristel Corson, chief marketing officer at Traditional Medicinals. “Half of those surveyed believe that stress is often the main cause of them getting sick, and when asked what season is most stressful, the highest percentage of respondents (26%) said winter given seasonal changes and the holidays.”

To combat stress, 47% of respondents turn on some music, while another 39% look for comfort in their favourite TV shows and movies.

Food has its own calming effect, with nearly a fifth of respondents sharing that they have a snack (17%) or drink a cup of tea (14%) when they need to bring their stress down.

Seven in 10 agree that their overall mental health would be better if they were able to reduce their stress (71%), highlighting a need for self-care routines to be an important part of the stress solution.

However, incorporating self-care strategies into their daily life is a hurdle for one in seven Americans, leaving nearly half wishing for simple options that fit into their busy schedule (47%) as opposed to elaborate routines. When thinking about a “de-stressing regimen,” an equal percentage of respondents want long-term overall wellness and the ability to alleviate stress quickly (23% each).

“We believe in integrating ancient herbal wisdom with modern scientific advancements for a holistic approach to wellness,” said Corson. “Just 37% of survey respondents think that trendy stress relief options are successful, while nearly half felt confident in more traditional methods like yoga, meditation, or a calming tea.”

Given the conflict in the Middle East, the Russian/Ukraine war, inflation, high costs of goods, and in the US, back-to-back devasting hurricanes along with a contentious presidential election,

consumers’ stress will not likely abate anytime soon. Furthermore, high-caffeine product launches have not tempered while decaf sales remain sluggish, suggesting that the caffeine paradox, Barry highlighted in the April 2022 article will hold true for the foreseeable future.

Barry concluded the article, noting, “That leaves coffee and tea where they have always been — powerful tools in coping with the larger challenges of life. The underlying stressors of the modern world are beyond the power of the industry to solve. But manufacturers can offer a range of products to help alleviate possible burdens, from those who want as much caffeine as they can consume to those prioritising mindfulness and looking to cut back.”

Tea and coffee manufacturers have done just that. So go ahead and grab that 300+ caffeine RTD coffee, that iced ginseng wild apple mint tea, that lavender coffee latte, or chamomile lavender tea — whatever you fancy, as there’s really no choice.

• Vanessa L Facenda, editor, Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.
  Keep in touch via email: vanessa@bellpublishing.com Twitter: @TCTradeJournal or LinkedIn: Tea & Coffee Trade Journal

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The London speciality-coffee roaster was paying a minimum of GBP £1.75 per lb before this point, and this change came at the same time as Fairtrade International’s price increase, which was up from $1.40 to $1.80 per lb. 

Prior to August 2023, the Fairtrade base price didn’t cover Fairtrade’s estimated cost of production for farmers, which was, based on the 2021 harvest, $1.76.  

Now, the Fairtrade minimum price covers the estimated cost of production, and certified farmers can also benefit from Fairtrade Premiums, which are additional sums of money invested in projects to improve productivity, climate adaptation, quality, infrastructure, and community services. 

Will Corby, Pact Coffee’s director of coffee and social impact, said:

“As coffee farmers face even tougher economic conditions due to climate change, increasing production costs and inflation, this is a massive change for good, and this is down to the fantastic work of the brilliant people at Fairtrade International.”

“But it’s not compatible with our sourcing model. Fairtrade requires that farmers join cooperatives to get certified. This doesn’t work for many of the small, independent farmers we’ve forged strong, mutually beneficial relationships with over a decade, and we’re sticking by them.”

“For some of these farmers, becoming Fairtrade certified would be too costly, require leaving their farms, and, ultimately, come at the expense of quality.”

“So we’ve instead raised our minimum price to $2 per pound to cover this increase while recognising the extra $0.20 Fairtrade Premium. As always, all of this will go directly to the farmer.”

“This way, we’re encouraging the pursuit of outstanding speciality coffee, while adhering to the Fairtrade Minimum Price and, in many instances, paying significantly more.”

The post Pact Coffee raises its minimum farmer payment appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

The update, approved by the Fairtrade Standards Committee, meets, and in some areas exceeds, the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) that went into effect in June 2023. In particular, the updated Fairtrade Coffee Standard sets the deforestation cut-off date at 1 January 2014, which means that no coffee should come from land deforested after that point. It also requires that all farms have recorded geolocation points, and farms larger than four (4) hectares must have polygon maps.

Juan Pablo Solis, senior advisor climate and environment, Fairtrade International, explained that the updated Coffee Standard is important because it represents a big step in the right direction. “There is no denying we are living in an era of climate crisis. For farmers and workers, the frequency and severity of climate variability means high exposure to human and environmental risks that jeopardise their livelihoods. It is no secret that climate change directly impacts smallholders’ future, hence a significant change in our global food system is paramount.”

In addition, the Standard requires coffee cooperatives to develop a prevention and mitigation plan, and they must conduct deforestation monitoring that will be facilitated by a satellite platform provided by Fairtrade. Fairtrade has established a partnership with Satelligence, a leader in deforestation tracking, that will allow producer organisations to have access to data and act on risks identified.

By updating the Coffee Standard, 600 Fairtrade coffee cooperatives, representing 870,000 Fairtrade coffee farmers cultivating 1.1 million hectares, would have the guidance and tools to meet the EUDR, which is part of the European Green Deal.

For instance, the EUDR requires geolocation data, but the Fairtrade Standard goes further by requiring producer organisations to collect this information, and payers and conveyors to report it to Fairtrade and also share this with the producer organisations to prevent deforestation. This detail points to the principle of fairness, meaning that the responsibility of protecting the environment must be shared by all those involved. The EUDR cutoff date is 31 December 2020, while the Fairtrade cutoff date is 1 January 2014. Plus, the Fairtrade Standard requires not only monitoring and risk assessment but also a biodiversity monitoring and management plan unlike the EUDR requirements.

The updated Standard will take effect in 2026, which will provide producers and traders with a transition period to adjust their practices and ensure compliance.

Fairtrade standards are reviewed and regularly updated through an inclusive and consultative process initiated and led by Fairtrade International’s Standards and Pricing Unit, with the participation of key stakeholders in the Fairtrade system, including farmers and farm workers, and then decided upon by the Fairtrade International Standards Committee. The committee, which includes representatives of the three Fairtrade Producer Networks, ensures that any decision considers the views of all the relevant stakeholders and are in line with Fairtrade International’s mission and policy statements.

The post Fairtrade updates its Coffee Standard to adhere to EUDR appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

A total of thirty-six Highly Commended and thirteen Gold awards were presented by The Leafies judges, which include preeminent tea leaders from brands such as Fortnum & Mason, The Ritz London, Postcard Teas, Twinings, Lipton and more. A selection of Special Awards were also presented to individuals, estates, or institutions that were effecting positive change within the industry in areas such as education, community empowerment, innovation and environmental stewardship.

This winner of the Fortnum & Mason Best in Show award, and therefore the highest scoring tea of the entire competition, is Yame Tea Kumaen’s Gyokuro Saemidori, an exquisite steamed green tea produced by a tiny tea garden in a remote mountainous region in Fukuoka, Japan. Guests at the ceremony were able to sample this tea, brewed by Kazumi Nakatani who travelled from Japan, amongst twenty-five of the award-winning teas made available to taste.

Zealong Tea Estate were another notable winner of the afternoon, scooping three awards in total for its Aged Oolong, Aromatic Oolong and the UKTA Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising Zealong’s phenomenal efforts pioneering a tea culture in New Zealand and demonstrating a tireless commitment to environmental regeneration through its sustainable farming practice. Zealong CEO Gigi Crawford and International Marketing Manager Sen Kong were present at the ceremony to serve their teas and said “this award acknowledges 25 years of hard work bringing about a tea industry and culture in New Zealand by Zealong Tea Estate, we are deeply honoured and grateful to receive this award.”

The Leafies aims to connect primary tea producers with buyers and hospitality professionals and offer exposure to a global tea-focused market. A selection of winners will once again be selected for sale across Fortnum & Mason’s Rare Tea Counter, where six winning teas from last year are still currently being sold. Ottilie Cunningham, tea buyer for Fortnum & Mason, said, “An enormous thank you and huge congratulations to everyone for another successful year of The Leafies. The organisation that goes into the entire thing is immense and it is really exciting to see how much it has grown since last year’s launch.”

New for this year were categories for retailers who are selling tea online or in store and connecting tea drinkers with carefully selected high-quality teas. Triple award-winning Japanese tea shop, Chaki Co was started by three former tea producers in March this year. Dorothy’s Teas, a former UK Tea Academy student and retailer based in Cumbria, UK, won Gold in the BRITA sponsored White Tea category for her Shannon Estate Silver Needles White Tea.

The full list of winners is available on the UK Tea Academy website here.

The post The Leafies name its 2023 winners appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

Below is a sampling of T&CTJ advertisers that will be exhibiting at Host Milan 2023.

Brambati SpA

Brambati will be present at the next edition of Host Milan 2023, in Hall 22 booth #P47-P57-R48-R58.

We will be there to introduce attendees to all the latest innovations and the new KL250 grinder, which joins the range of proven roller grinder, will be presented.

There will also be a preview of the new company video that will tell our story, enabling visitors to see our growth through totally different eyes.

We look forward to meeting our customers – both current and new – in Milan and, in the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact us for any information. See you soon.

Brambati SpA

Codevilla (PV) Italy

Web: brambati.it

Host Milan: Hall 22, Booth #P47-P57-R48-R58

Image: Brambati

Cimbria A/S

Adding Value, from the Coffee Plant to the Roasted Bean

In the green coffee processing business, Cimbria is well-known for its high-performing and reliable equipment and turnkey solutions meeting the high-quality requirements for plants and end products. Cimbria equipment ensures highly precise cleaning, hulling, polishing, separation, grading, and sorting resulting in a very high purity of the final product, and very low levels of product waste, while preserving the characteristics and quality of the bean throughout the process.

Cimbria’s optical sorting solutions use advanced technology offering the highest accuracy with extreme precision. Experts with in-depth product knowledge and expertise in the most modern processing technology and plant design ensure optimum processing of coffee at low energy consumption. The innovative and user-friendly sorting solutions give customers full control throughout processing and drive their coffee production to new heights.

Cimbria A/S

Thisted, Denmark

Web: cimbria.com

Host Milan: Hall 22, Booth #R60

Image: Cimbria

Colombini Srl

ANGEL, Giant Inside.

As per our industrial grinders, ANGEL is a high-tech product, equipped with discs in tungsten carbide (hardness: 1300 Vickers) and very high precision adjustment with resolution of two microns and digital display of discs position; due to its solidity and high precision, it can produce batches of ground coffee in continuous cycle, with a capacity of 90-120 kg/h. The duration of the discs is in the order of 40-80 tonnes, depending on the fineness of the ground coffee.

ANGEL can also grind Turkish coffee, with cardamom too; in this case, the capacity is around 50 Kg/h.

It is useful in laboratories to repeat very similar results of our industrial grinders.

All the ANGELs are equipped with a cooling system by ventilation.

Seven different versions can be provided and the prices are all similar. The main difference is the power supply as the 220 volt single-phase version is also equipped with a variable speed drive.

The .LAB and .ST versions are equipped with a manual device that ensures, by means of a simple hand gesture, that the product exhaust duct remains cleaned inside every time a ground coffee package is filled.

The RTV.special and the RT.special are equipped with an automatic cleaning system for the exhaust duct, very helpful when working in a continuous cycle for several minutes/hours.

Colombini Srl

Settimo Torinese (TO), Italy

Email: info@colombini.srl

Web: colombini.srl

Host Milan: Hall 22, Booth #N45-P46

Image: Colombini

Goglio Spa

Goglio’s innovative solutions for coffee presented at Host 2023

Goglio is a globally leading group in flexible packaging which designs and develops complete packaging systems providing laminates, valves and capsules, packaging lines and advanced services. Goglio has always been at the forefront of the coffee sector and will present some of the latest innovations for this sector at the Host fair in Milan at Pavillion 18, Booths F52 – F58 G51 – G57.

The Group’s solutions, which introduced the one-way degassing valve back in the late 1960s and today produces more than one billion units a year, now includes a wide range of coffee packaging systems to meet a variety of needs: from packages for coffee beans or ground coffee, characterised by high-barrier laminates which allow the most hermetic guarantee, to the first in the world capsule with degassing valve, which allows the outflow of gases naturally released by coffee, while at the same time preventing oxygen from entering.

Thanks to this innovative technology, roasted coffee can be packaged immediately, without having to wait for the degassing process to be completed. The capsule also stands out for its exceptional brewing quality, achieved through self-perforating lids that guarantee perfect compatibility with coffee machines. As a testament to Goglio’s focus on sustainability, the capsule is also available in the “100% compostable” (Industrial) version.

Goglio also introduced a line of green packaging for coffee, exclusively composed of mono-material – polyethylene or polypropylene – which provides excellent barrier properties to preserve the product and maintains the same level of machinability as conventional laminates.

Also on display at the fair will be the G14 CK, a reel-start packaging line that is optimal for granular, powder and products in pieces and allows for the packaging of 1kg packs of coffee beans in fully suitable for recycling mono-material packs in 100% polyethylene. The line also allows the application of Goglio’s one-way degassing valve and is equipped with connection to Goglio’s MIND Industrial Internet of Things remote monitoring system for real-time, 7-day-a-week, 24-hour monitoring of packaging lines. The latest release of Goglio MIND has been presented at the fair, together with the new fres-co SYSTEM®+, which allows direct connection between laminates and the packaging line.

Goglio Spa

Daverio (VA), Italy

Web: goglio.it/en/

Host Milan: Hall 18, Booth #F52 – F58 G51 – G57

Image: Goglio

IMA Coffee

The IMA Coffee Hub’s commitment to research into new sustainable projects and technologies is on show at HOSTMilano.

IMA Coffee Hub strives to answer the needs of the global coffee industry and engineer quality solutions to enhance the performance of its customers. To meet the needs of a rapidly evolving market, IMA Coffee Hub covers all aspects of the processing and packaging processes, from consultancy and design to production planning and turnkey solutions.

“The perfect balance of the IMA Coffee Hub will be visible at HOSTMilano. Starting from a classic-style product, the IMA Petroncini TTA60, the strongest roaster ever, up to the most sustainable and flexible solution for coffee roasting: the IMA Petroncini TMR roaster,” said Nicola Panzani, CEO at IMA Petroncini and sales director at IMA Coffee Hub.

“Also on show will be the TMR25 LAB, the perfect scale-down of IMA Petroncini industrial model, meant for lab purposes. TMR25 makes it possible to perform new roasting profiles, testing new blends and transferring the roasting parameters on the industrial roaster to launch the production. That’s possible thanks to Orchestra, the new roasting control applied on TMR models, capable of self-tuning the machine parameters, thus enabling the roasting technologist to achieve constant roasting results over time, especially for products such as pods and capsules,” Panzani said.

The TMR also uses just one burner as a heat generator and after burner to reduce carbon dioxide, NOx and VOC emissions. The heat recirculation allows, on average, 30 to 35 percent energy saving, compared to traditional roasters.

“Thanks to OPENLab, we can analyse new sustainable and innovative materials such as compostable, paper-based, or ultra-thin film, before they are commercially available,” said Alessandro Nobili, head of product and project management at IMA Coffee | Packaging Solutions.

At HOSTMilano, IMA will be presenting the latest projects developed at IMA OPENLab alongside the new SB1 LAB, an extremely compact rotary machine for the filling and sealing of single capsules, and the SR4N, designed for medium production volumes. Every filler from the IMA Coffee portfolio can handle all types of capsules, whatever material they are made of, be it compostable materials, aluminium, or plastic.

IMA Coffee

Web: ima.it/coffee.

Host Milan: Hall 22P, Booth #K47-K57 L48-L58

Image: IMA Coffee

Syntegon

Syntegon is very excited to have the PMX packaging machine to bring to the coffee market. The PMX can be used for ground coffee and whole beans and can also accommodate different packaging formats thanks to fast changeover times. A modular concept enables manufacturers to react quickly to fluctuating market requirements and customer needs. Along with its undeniable flexibility, the PMX simultaneously fulfils modern requirements with respect to sustainability and digitalisation. Moreover, the new digital solution Synexio Empower offers cost savings through condition monitoring by optimising energy and material consumption.

With the PMX, different bag variants and closure elements can be combined along with different sealing options, like full-corner-sealing, which allows for perfect shelf appearance. Therefore, specific customer requirements can be realised, while also achieving efficient output. For example: the PMX can pack up to 65 packages of 500 grams of whole coffee beans per minute. The machine can accommodate an output of up to 100 packages per minute through its double tube version. During the packaging process, if the bag cross-section format is changed, the machine will be ready for use again after just 30 minutes. It is therefore suitable for small, medium, and large packaging formats.

The PMX produces coffee bags with package weights between 200 and 1200 grams, both with upright and downfolded top parts. The bags are resealable via tin tie, labels, or adhesive tape. If required, manufacturers can use an innovative spout closure through which the coffee beans are emptied out at the packaging side – a convenient feature, especially for end users. This ‘neutrafill’ process, in which the coffee is gas-flushed before and during the packaging process, ensures aroma protection.

Syntegon Technology is a leading global process and packaging technology provider. The company, headquartered in Waiblingen, Germany has been offering complete solutions for the pharmaceutical and food industries for over 50 years. The portfolio of intelligent and sustainable technologies includes stand-alone machines, along with complete systems and services. In the food industry, the portfolio includes process technology for confectionery, as well as packaging solutions for dry foods, frozen foods, bakery items, and dairy products.

Syntegon

Waiblingen, Germany

Web: syntegon.com/solutions/food/coffee-packaging-machine

Image: Syntegon

Teepack Gmbh

Tradition, improved upon!

In the tea business, Constantas are famous machines, providing their owners with a lot of prestige and profit. Now, the new interpretation successfully continues this legacy by using a simple formula: German reliability with global flexibility.

The new version keeps the traditional strengths of the proven Constanta by being a simple and reliable machine, working even under the harshest of conditions. A lot of them are still performing satisfactorily, even after more than 60 years of service. These strengths seem to have hit a mark since its first delivery in 1949, with over 2,500 machines sold all over the world. This is a tradition worth keeping, so we continue to completely design and build our machines at our headquarter in Germany.

Now, it was time to improve upon these strengths and to make the machine ready for the 21st century and the modern customer. We therefore equipped the new Constanta with modern knotting technology, a faulty bag ejection, and a hygienic design.

However, most important is the addition of one more feature: the ability to be configured into over 1,000 variants. Two speed versions, two bag sizes, various removal options and all current envelope types can be combined freely to exactly meet the customer’s requirements.

This modularity is unique in the market and provides the customer with the necessary flexibility to be successful in the fast-changing world of today.

We are happy to report that these new capabilities are already appreciated by the market. Our trusted customers are happy with the new interpretation of this proven concept. And new customers all over the world are starting fresh chapters in their development.

Teepack Spezialmaschinen GmbH & Co KG

Meerbusch, Germany

Email: hello@teepack.com

Web: teepack.com

Image: Teepack

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illycaffè has long been committed to mitigating the effects of climate change throughout the entire supply chain, starting with coffee cultivation, for which it promotes the sustainable model of regenerative agriculture. This model allows for proper nourishment of the plants, naturally regenerating the soil, and thus reducing CO2 emissions. Additionally, this new type of cultivation allows for an improvement in the health of the ecosystem thanks to the increased biodiversity of the species used for ground cover and soil dynamics. In the Cerrado Mineiro region, where the company has been working hand in hand with local producers for over thirty years, the Arabica Selection Brazil coffee has been grown by applying the best regenerative practices certified regenagri.

“The Arabica Selection Brazil Cerrado Mineiro is the result of the relationship we have built over the years with coffee producers and the Federation of Producers of Cerrado Mineiro. We have shared the urgency of finding a solution to the effects of climate change,” commented Cristina Scocchia, CEO of illycaffè. “Aware that this challenge can only be overcome by joining forces, we have identified the best techniques for ecosystem adaptation, mitigation, and regeneration, producing the first 100% Arabica coffee sourced from certified regenerative agriculture, as regenagri certified.”

The reduction of natural resource exploitation, soil regeneration, and the preservation of biodiversity and future land productivity are some of the results achieved through the application of regenerative agronomic practices selected by illycaffè. This model shifts the focus from the plant to the soil, offering the best natural solutions to nourish, strengthen, and make it fertile and resilient to external threats.

The Arabica Selection Brazil Cerrado Mineiro, with its hints of caramel and nuts, is available in 250g cans in both whole bean and ground versions. The products can be purchased from illy.com from 1 October and Waitrose from 16 October.

The post illycaffè marks International Coffee Day with first regenerative coffee blend appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

Through the Global Coffee Alliance, Nestlé and Starbucks bring to market a wide range of products, including Starbucks capsules for the Nespresso and Nescafé Dolce Gusto systems, whole bean, roast and ground and premium instant Starbucks coffees, K-Cup pods and creamers in the at-home category and in foodservice channels.

Nestlé has expanded the Starbucks on-the-go business globally and recently launched a range of ready-to-drink coffee beverages across Southeast Asia and Oceania. It has significantly strengthened its coffee business in North America. In 2022, the Starbucks business generated USD 1.6 billion in incremental sales for Nestlé.

The two companies have expanded the reach of Starbucks branded premium products to nearly 80 markets worldwide, and to-date, more than 14 billion cups are brewed at home and served through foodservice channels.

The alliance builds on the experience and capabilities of both Nestlé and Starbucks. Together, the companies have developed new, innovative products and have introduced the brand to new formats and markets, leveraging both organisations’ product knowledge and Nestlé’s distribution footprint.

“We are proud of the work we have achieved together,” said Mark Schneider, CEO, Nestlé S.A. “Nestlé and Starbucks are deeply committed to growing this business. The results show that. The outstanding collaboration between the two teams is based on common shared values and a commitment to deliver exceptional coffee that is responsibly and sustainably sourced. I look forward to taking our partnership to new heights.”

Laxman Narasimhan, CEO, Starbucks Coffee Company, said, “The formation of the Global Coffee Alliance has allowed both companies to focus on their core strengths, which has proven to be highly successful over the past five years. We are confident that there remains enormous opportunity for the Starbucks brand in this segment and only expect this business to continue to grow and reach more consumers through the alliance.”

The two companies will continue to strengthen the business and expand the Starbucks brand by seeking to create new coffee moments. They aim to capture new opportunities with cold and seasonal coffees – two categories driven mainly by young consumers. They will grow out-of-home programs and solutions, and they will continue to innovate and bring new coffee experiences to consumers.

The post Nestlé and Starbucks celebrate five years of their Global Coffee Alliance appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

The International Coffee Organization (ICO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) play a complementary role in promoting the realisation of and the need for sustainable, responsible and inclusive workplace practices.

On this year’s International Coffee Day (ICD) – 1 October 2023 – the ICO and ILO are jointly launching the #CoffeePeople campaign and a social media challenge around the theme “promoting the right to a safe and healthy working environment in the coffee supply chain.”

A celebration of the coffee sector’s diversity, quality and dedication, International Coffee Day is an opportunity for coffee lovers to share their passion for the beverage and acknowledge and support the work of millions of coffee farmers, as well of all those women and men engaged in producing, trading, retailing, and serving coffee.

The #CoffeePeople campaign will also raise awareness of ILO’s Vision Zero Fund, a G7 and G20 initiative that brings stakeholders together to advance towards the vision of achieving zero severe and fatal work-related accidents, injuries, and diseases in global supply chains.

In recognition of International Coffee Day, the ICO and ILO are co-hosting a series of events. These initiatives will establish new resources and opportunities aimed at enhancing the working conditions for coffee sector workers, in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The campaign will seek the direct involvement of some producing and consuming countries, international organisations active in the coffee sector, coffee brands and celebrities. Join the campaign by sharing a selfie with your coffee cup and dedicating it to coffee workers.

The companies are counting on your support and enthusiasm to help spread the word about the #CoffeePeople campaign via your own platforms, and to follow the celebrations on International Coffee Day, on 1 October 2023.

Vanúsia Nogueira, executive director of the ICO, commented, “All workers deserve to enjoy decent and safe working conditions. This implies, as a minimum, rules for working hours, adequate payment of wages and effective monitoring of health and safety at work. The coffee sector, which employs millions of people around the world, can be a model of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, where all workers are treated with dignity and respect. We are working hard towards this. I am proud that today, together with the ILO, the ICO is committed to leading and modelling a better coffee workplace to meet all challenges.

Promoting respect for international labour rights and helping key stakeholders commit to upholding these rights is essential to achieve inclusive growth, strengthen the stability and sustainability of the coffee sector, and improve the quality of life for workers.”

The post The ICO and ILO mark International Coffee Day by promoting workers’ rights appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

The post WCR releases open-access arabica coffee genetic database appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

According to the organisers, “Packaging is no longer just a means of protecting products; it plays a pivotal role in sustainability, brand recognition, and consumer engagement. Recognising this, the Sri Lanka Institute of Packaging has designed a comprehensive and industry-relevant Diploma in Packaging Technology that equips students with expertise to address modern packaging challenges.”

Luciana Pellegrino added, “It is an honour to be part of such an important moment to the history of packaging industry in Sri Lanka and WPO is proud to support such holistic initiative. I was particularly proud of being invited for the inaugural class in a program that will be conducted by seasoned professionals and experts in the packaging field both locally and globally. Their industry experience and academic prowess will ensure that students receive top-notch education and guidance throughout their learning journey. The faculty members also foster a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to think critically and creatively.”

The curriculum of the Diploma in Packaging Technology, which was developed by a resourceful team of experts, covers an array of subjects and topics, ranging from the packaging for global society and markets, packaging manufacturing and application process, principles of packaging design and materials science to logistics, marketing, and environmental impact assessments. Students gain a deep understanding of various packaging materials, their properties, and their suitability for different products. The programme emphasises the importance of sustainable packaging solutions, encouraging students to explore biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable alternatives.

“As the world embraces a more sustainable and technology-driven future, the role of packaging technology has become increasingly pivotal”, completes WPO president, Pierre Pienaar. “The Diploma in Packaging Technology equips participants with foresight and adaptability to stay at the forefront of industry trends and innovations, by fostering a deep appreciation for sustainable practices, the Sri Lanka Institute of Packaging with the support of the Ministry of Industries is moulding responsible packaging professionals who can shape a greener and more prosperous future.”  

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For the first time, the reports provide an overview of the nutritional value of Nestlé’s global portfolio. They also provide an update on the company’s progress of its Net Zero roadmap.

As part of its focus on ‘Good for You’, Nestlé strives to be an industry leader in bringing tasty, balanced diets within reach for people around the world. Today, Nestlé is setting a new standard in corporate transparency: It is the first company to report on the nutritional value of its entire global portfolio. Nestlé has benchmarked its products against the Health Star Rating (HSR) system, a nutrient profiling system used by the Access to Nutrition Index. The results show that Nestlé products with an HSR rating of 3.5 stars and above, together with its specialised nutrition products, like infant or medical nutrition, account for close to 60% of the company’s sales (excluding Nestlé’s pet care business). The company has committed to setting a global target for the healthier part of its portfolio. Nestlé will complement this with more stringent responsible marketing practices as well as nutrition education programmes and services to help people enjoy all foods as part of a balanced diet.

As part of its ‘Good for the Planet’ work, Nestlé further reduced greenhouse gas emissions to below its 2018 baseline. It is now well beyond peak carbon. The company achieved this result while growing its business substantially. Nestlé is tackling the emissions within its own operations head on. For example, it increased its use of renewable electricity last year and is on track to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2025.

In line with the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures, the company also released its second voluntary Climate Risk and Impact Report. As a business leader, Nestlé is committed to transparency and action on climate-related risks and opportunities. Consequently, the company is releasing this report ahead of Swiss regulatory requirements.

Throughout the reports, Nestlé gives examples of how it consistently creates value. It focuses on growth through continuous innovation, operational efficiency and disciplined resource and capital allocation. Carefully balancing these objectives enable the company to generate reliable, sustainable returns. Nestlé stayed the course yet again in 2022.

The full Annual Report contains Nestlé’s Annual Review as well as its Corporate Governance & Compensation Reports and Financial Statements, which were published on February 16, 2023.

Read the:
Annual Review (pdf, 17Mb) | Annual Review online
Corporate Governance Report (pdf, 2Mb) (published on February 16, 2023)
Financial Statements (pdf, 2Mb) (published on February 16, 2023)
Creating Shared Value and Sustainability Report (pdf, 16Mb)
Climate Risk and Impact Report (TCFD) (pdf, 2Mb)

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The Rainforest Alliance has set out its new vision for accelerating action to address the climate emergency, biodiversity loss, systemic poverty, and human rights issues in its 2022 Annual Report.

Priority landscapes: Discover more about the Rainforest Alliance’s efforts to drive sustainability transformation in Cameroon, Guatemala, Kenya, Mexico, Indonesia, and beyond. Learn about the launch and recognition of LandScale, a tool that measures, evaluates, and communicates the performance of sustainable landscapes.

Certification and beyond: Explore crop-specific facts and figures and delve into the Rainforest Alliance’s work beyond certification, including advocacy around the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Discover new tools such as the Regenerative Coffee Scorecard, which offers farmers and companies guidance on their transition to regenerative agriculture.

The Rainforest Alliance’s 2030 vision: Dive into the Rainforest Alliance’s forward-looking vision that emphasises the need to transform our food system through regenerative agriculture in the world’s most critical tropical landscapes. It aims to drive systemic change—all while placing rural communities at the heart of the solution.

• 58 countries with certified farms and projects; 6,000+ company partners 
• Four million farmers and workers following the Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Agriculture Standard 
• Six million+ hectares of farmland certified against our sustainability standards globally 
• 87 projects to improve livelihoods and protect nature; 18 new projects started in 2022 
• 54,000+ products with the Rainforest Alliance Certified seal or UTZ label available 

The post Rainforest Alliance debuts new strategic direction appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

The mission at Bell is to be passionate, hard-working, and creative, and invest in people and processes. The company says it aligns its commitment to make a difference for the planet with customer needs top-of-mind.

Diego Darquea C, Bell’s vice president, global quality, compliance and safety, works on a global scale to drive the company’s sustainability programmes. Diego stated, “Bell Flavors & Fragrances, Inc is dedicated to aligning with the IFRA-IOFI Sustainability Charter and we continue to see this commitment with a third consecutive year of silver certification. Our commitment continues to make a difference for the planet, for people, and for our business by achieving the highest standards in the industry.”

Bell’s continued sustainability focus is built around five focus areas: 1) Responsible Sourcing, 2) Environmental Footprint, 3) Employee Well-Being, 4) Product Safety, and 5) Transparency.

Bell partners with suppliers and focuses on sustainability and responsible sourcing to provide solutions for customers and consumers that demand transparency. Bell is committed to making a difference for the planet and its customers, and its passion for the environment drives the company to protect ecosystem use and supply chain health and safety.

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Smile Compostable Solutions is an honouree under the energy and sustainability category for its compostable coffee pods. The company’s main mission is to to bridge sustainability and convenience. Whether for consumers or companies, Smile is bringing patented, plant-based innovations to link the almost-hard-to-believe pair. The honouree sells compostable solutions to counter the plastic pollution building up in landfills from our make-take-waste society. Smile offers compostable alternatives to two of the top three most polluting single-use plastics – straws and coffee pods.

Smile’s CEO, Michael Sands, stated, “We are honoured to be included in this remarkable list of innovative solutions. Sustainability is imperative – and we are proud to be recognised for our materials that are helping to reduce single-use plastic.”

This year’s World Changing Ideas Awards showcased 45 winners, 216 finalists, and more than 300 honourable mentions—with health, climate, energy, and AI among the most popular categories. A panel of Fast Company editors and reporters selected winners and finalists from a pool of more than 2,200 entries across urban design, education, nature, politics, technology, corporate social responsibility, and more. Several new categories were added this year including rapid response, crypto and blockchain, agriculture, and workplace. The 2023 awards feature entries from across the globe, from Italy to Singapore to New Zealand.

“It’s thrilling to see the creativity and innovation that are so abundant among this year’s honourees,” says Fast Company editor-in-chief, Brendan Vaughan. “While it’s easy to feel discouraged by the state of the world, the entrepreneurs, companies, and nonprofits featured in this package show the limitless potential to address society’s most urgent problems. Our journalists have highlighted some of the most exciting and impactful work being done today—from housing to equity to sustainability—and we look forward to seeing not only how these projects evolve but how they inspire others to develop solutions of their own.”

The post Smile honoured at World Changing Ideas Awards for its compostable coffee pods appeared first on Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.

Image: SCA

Image: Interpack

Image: PLMA

Cimbria

About A/S Cimbria

Cimbria is a world leader in industrial processing, handling, and storage of grain, seeds, food as well as animal feed and other bulk products. Cimbria works closely with its customers to design, manufacture, install, and service customised solutions, individual machines, and complete turnkey systems. In 2016, Cimbria became a part of AGCO Corporation and now has operations – including manufacturing facilities – in Denmark, Italy, Czech Republic, and Austria as well as dealers in all continents

Over the decades, the company has grown steadily with a strong focus on its core business and understanding of the market and its customers’ needs. Cimbria is committed to secure and efficient processing, handling, and storage of crops and is strongly focused on helping customers optimise their production and reduce raw material losses during handling, processing and storage.

In the Green Coffee Processing business, Cimbria is well-known for its premium equipment and turnkey solutions matching the requirements for high-quality plants and end products. Cimbria equipment secures highly precise cleaning, hulling, polishing, separation, grading and sorting, resulting in a very high purity in the final product, a very low product waste level and no change of the characteristics of the bean.

Cimbria’s equipment and turnkey solutions allow customers to handle and store large quantities of coffee beans in an efficient and safe way. Its advanced technology has been designed to give customers full control throughout processing and drive their coffee production to new heights.

For more information, click here.

Faartoftvej 22, 7700, Thisted, Denmark

Tel: +45 96 17 90 00
Email: cimbria.holding@agcocorp.com
Web: cimbria.com

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 1725

Interpack, Düsseldorf: Hall 3, F45

Cimbria coffee plant. Image: Cimbira

Colombini Srl

Angel, giant inside

As with Colombini’s industrial grinders, Angel is a high-tech product, equipped with discs made of tungsten carbide (hardness: 1300 Vickers) and very high precision adjustment, with resolution of two microns and a digital display of discs position.

Due to its solidity and high precision, it can produce batches of ground coffee in a continuous cycle, with a capacity of 90-120 kg/h. The duration of the discs is for 40-80 tons, depending on the fineness of the ground coffee. Angel can also grind Turkish coffee with cardamom, for which the capacity is around 50 Kg/h. It is very useful for laboratories to repeat similar results of Colombini’s industrial grinders.

Seven different versions are on offer, each with similar price points. The main difference is the power supply, as the 220 Volt single-phase version is also equipped with a variable speed drive. All the Angel grinders are equipped with a cooling system using ventilation.

The .LAB and .ST versions are equipped with a manual device that ensures, by means of a simple hand gesture, that the product exhaust duct remains cleaned inside every time a ground coffee package is filled.

The RTV.special and the RT.special are equipped with an automatic cleaning system of the exhaust duct, which is beneficial when working in continuous cycles for several minutes/hours.

Via Antonio De Francisco, 130/16 10036 Settimo Torinese (TO)
Email: info@colombini.srl
Tel: +39-0118211407
Web: colombini.srl

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 1745

Colombini Angel. Image: Colombini

Deutsche Extrakt Kaffee GmbH (DEK)

DEK (Deutsche Extrakt Kaffee GmbH) specialises in instant coffees and coffee drinks. This includes an outstanding range of coffee drinks with milk such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. Hot drinks such as grain coffee and drinking chocolate are also among the bestsellers. Of course, Dek’s roasted coffees and coffee products with milk are also available in capsules for standard systems. Quick to prepare and easy to enjoy.

Convincing facts

• One of the world’s biggest instant coffee manufacturers
• Control and supervision of our products along the entire supply chain
• Over 60 years of experience
• Partners in the retail, industry and vending sectors
• Coffee from the world’s best growing regions
• Eight of its own plants
• Consistently the highest quality
• Business relationships characterised by satisfaction and sustainability
• Sustainability and environmental awareness along the entire supply chain

Deutsche Extrakt Kaffee GmbH, Cafeastraße 1, 21107 Hamburg
Tel: +49 40 753 04-0
Email: sales@dek.de
Web: dek.de/en

PLMA, Amsterdam: Hall 1, Booth 1.A31

Image: DEK

Demus SpA

ISO 50001 Energy Management Certification ISO 50001 for Demus

Demus’ commitment to sustainability continues. Demus, a Trieste-based company, active since 1962 in the green coffee decaffeination market, has obtained ISO 50001 certification for its power system from DNV, a world-leading third-party entity that provides certification, verification and risk management services.

Having an Energy Management System Certification allows for increased control over consumption for the continuous improvement of energy performance and the reduction of environmental impacts.

The release of the certification follows a rigorous verification, monitoring, evaluation and analysis process by DNV, which has certified the compliance of the Demus Energy Management System with all the requirements set by the standard.

Massimo Alvaro, managing director of business assurance Italia for DNV explains: “The Demus Energy Management System has successfully passed the audit, resulting in ensuring efficient energy management throughout the production cycle. An aspect that is more important than ever today, in line with the needs of the market and the community, also with a view to reducing the impact on natural resources. I’m really pleased to deliver this certification to a company that has always been attentive to system and product certifications.”

The recognition is part of the broader path undertaken by the company, starting in 1999 with the ISO 9001 Quality certification, followed by the ISO 14001 Environmental certification in 2010, by the OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Safety certification (current ISO 45001) in 2016 and by the certification for Hygiene and Food Safety – FSSC 22000 in 2020.

“Today represents an extremely important milestone for us, because it allows us to continue to strive to offer the best possible service to our customers,” comments Massimiliano Fabian, president and CEO for Demus. “A concrete testimony of our desire to maintain vigilant attention on all processes, with the aim of guaranteeing the highest standards, constantly improving our performance and minimising impacts.”

Via G&S. Caboto, 31, Trieste
Tel: +39 040-280858
Email: info@demus.com
Web: demus.it

Image: Demus

Descamex

Descamex was founded in the early 80s and currently runs two decaf facilities, located in Cordoba, Mexico, and has been organic certified since 2003. Descamex offers coffees from all around the globe and export direct to more than 32 different countries. It holds food safety, traceability and social certifications so all coffee drinkers can enjoy coffee without limits!

Visit us at SCA Expo Booth #434 and cup amazing coffees without caffeine.

Córdoba, Ver CP, Mexico
Email: exports@descamex.com
Web: descamex.com

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 434

Image: Descamex

Eastsign Bio-Tech Limited

Eastsign Milk Frother

An electric milk frother, 4-in-1 electric milk steamer, 12.3oz/350ml automatic hot and cold foam maker and milk warmer for lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos.

Be your own barista at home: Powerful frothing function for cold foam, light warm foam, thick warm foam, and warming without foam.

Quick frothing and heating: Simple and quiet operation; you can switch the mode via one button to make different kinds of fragrant milk froth in only two minutes without the noise.

Upgraded large capacity: Heat up to 12.3oz/350ml milk for breakfast, or froth up to 5.6oz/160ml of foam for a latte, cappuccino, matcha latte, or protein powder.

Easy to clean: It comes with scratch-resistant materials and a non-stick interior coating; you can rinse this milk froth maker with running water and wipe it dry with a soft cloth; the accompanying soft cleaning brush is also capable of helping clean stubborn stains.

Safety first: Constructed from stainless steel.  The auto shut-off function enables when your drink is finished, and the frother is as quiet as a whisper. A short power cord is provided to reduce any risk of entangling. A 12-month warranty and professional assistance are assured.

Room 1818, 18/F., Shatin Galleria, 18-24 Shan Mei Street, Fotan, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong.

Tel: 852 – 2117 0098   852 – 2117 0099
Email: info@eastsign.com
Web: eastsign.com

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 741

Image: Eastsign

Fres-co System USA, Inc.

Since 1978, Fres-co System USA, Inc. has been dedicated to one thing and one thing only – providing the finest flexible packaging available. Headquartered in Telford, PA, with a second facility in Red Oak, IA, we offer integrated bag, pouch and rollstock solutions for coffee, food and beverage, pet food, ingredients, chemicals and more. Fres-co has manufactured high-performance flexible packaging systems and invented dozens of innovative breakthroughs that are employed by Fortune 500 leaders. Collaborate with us to develop unique and reliable flexible packaging to effectively and economically protect your coffee.

3005 State Road, Telford, PA 18969-1033
Tel: 215-721-4600
Web: fresco.com

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 2035
PLMA, Amsterdam: Booth 6113

G14C. Image: Fres-co

IMA Coffee

IMA Coffee at Specialty Coffee Expo and Interpack

Do not miss the opportunity to discover IMA Coffee’s latest technologies and projects.

What’s new for the coffee industry: IMA Coffee Lab and American ShowLAB

Stop by IMA booths and discover more about IMA Coffee Lab and American ShowLAB, the new IMA Coffee laboratories dedicated to coffee and its processing technologies: two pioneering spaces where you can envision your project and envisage how to implement the coffee plant you dream of.

New concept of performance: that’s Synkro

On show at Interpack, the brand new Synkro, a high-speed filling and sealing machine specifically designed to handle up to 1,200 coffee capsule per minute with a new concept of performance. With its high degree of automation in a compact design, it can handle all types of capsules, whatever material they are made of, aluminum, plastic or compostable materials. Thanks to its innovative capsule transfer system based on the use of independent magnetic shuttles, it guarantees high flexibility, allowing different dwell times at each operating station. The new Synkro is equipped with an innovative precise and accurate dosing system guaranteeing an extremely gentle product handling.

IMA Coffee Hub is the broadest technical and commercial organisation serving the coffee processing and packaging industry today

Able to ensure market-leading competences, industry experience and application-specific expertise encompassing all stages of coffee handling, roasting, grinding, degassing, and packaging, IMA Coffee Hub is the ideal starting point from where you will reach your destination. This is precisely the benefit the coffee industry obtains from IMA: just one supplier, already coordinated from within.

Via Emilia Levante 428-442, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 (Bologna) Italy
Email: sales.coffee@ima.it
Web: ima.it/coffee

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 443
Interpack, Düsseldorf: Hall 17

IMA Coffee lab. Image: IMA Coffee

IMA Tea & Herb

On show at Interpack is the brand new C24-IQ, the innovative teabag packaging machine from IMA Tea & Herbs.

Born to be the fastest teabag packaging machine for the production of the IMA iconic knotted teabag, the new C24-IQ offers the very latest technologies achieving top efficiency performance.

Reaching up to 450 bags per minute, in any configuration, it encompasses an outstanding compact and clean design guaranteeing a substantial reduction of overhanging parts and therefore a consequent extraordinary decrease in cleaning operations.

The new C24-IQ encompasses the most innovative technological and digital features with the precise aim to improve accessibility for daily operations and cut replacement and adjustment time losses.

Based on an intelligent and predictive maintenance management platform, the new C24-IQ is aimed to “talk” to the operator by monitoring and anticipating functionality troubles or required operations, thus enhancing a prompt and effective intervention.

• Naked bags, crimped or sealed outer envelope
• Newly-conceived, compact and flexible cartoning attachment from 1 to 4 rows (pre-erected and flat-blanks cartons)

Thanks to almost 60 years of experience in the tea bagging sector and an impressive 70% market share, IMA Tea & Herbs is the world’s leading supplier of automatic machines designed for the packaging of tea and herbs in filter bags. With a tradition of excellence and a distinctive flair for innovation, IMA has an in-depth understanding of the market and is receptive to fast-evolving customer needs.

Via Emilia Levante 428-442, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 (Bologna) Italy

Email: marketing.tea@ima.it

Web: ima.it

Interpack, Düsseldorf: Hall 17

Image: IMA Tea & Herb

Modern Processing Equipment (MPE)

Modern Process Equipment (MPE) is excited to be exhibiting at this year’s SCA Expo in Portland, OR. Stop by booth 1019, to see the latest technology in grinding, conveying, project management and engineering for the coffee industry.

See the revolutionary Mini.Max Roller-Style Capsule Grinder with three sections for higher capacity during the expo. The Model 600 Mini.Max grinder is specifically designed for use with single serve coffee packaging machines. This all-in-one grinder produces the optimal grinds for K-Cup, Nespresso, espresso and virtually any other grind required for single-serve capsule packaging. It is no longer necessary to compromise with a disc-style grinder. The quality grind that was previously only achieved with a roller-style grinder can be installed, economically, in tandem with capsule filling machines.

See MPE’s Chain-Vey tubular drag conveyor at booth 1019. This demo-sized unit gently and efficiently conveys coffee before your eyes. When compared to dense phase pneumatics, Chain-Vey offers over 90% energy savings. Other benefits include customisable configurations, inert-gas freshness preservation, near-zero product breakage, and bi-directional transport with multiple inlets and discharges to name a few. Chain-Vey also offers Dual-Drive technology for conveying ultra-long distances.

MPE’s expertise in coffee bean processing equipment is tied to its grinding and conveyance technology; and MPW has had the privilege of engineering some of the biggest systems for many of the world’s top roasters. With its equipment-neutral approach, MPE works hard to understand your business goals so it can create an industrial process solution to support them.

3125 South Kolin Avenue, Chicago, IL 60623, USA
Tel: +1 773-254-3929
Web: mpechicago.com

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 1019
Interpack, Düsseldorf: Hall 4, Booth A39

Image: MPE

Neumann Kaffee Gruppe (NKG)

Join NKG in its efforts to shape a sustainable future of coffee. Most are aware that the coffee industry is facing major challenges, but NKG is convinced that joint efforts can lead the industry on the right path. To embark on this journey and live up to its responsibility, NKG have developed its NKG Responsible Business Program (RBP), which builds the framework for the group’s sustainability efforts.

To achieve the goals of the RBP and secure the future of coffee, NKG undertakes a variety of efforts within the company itself and in partnerships with NGOs, governments, customers, banks and others. Its efforts start where the coffee comes from and where it is most urgently needed to fight for its future: on the ground. Through NKG’s global network covering 26 countries, NKG’s diversified sustainability efforts reach down to farm level to create sustainable supply chains benefitting everyone contributing to a daily cup of coffee. More than 250 employees worldwide work on solutions to tackle global as well as local challenges.

NKG believes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for sustainability. Therefore, its efforts range from global initiatives to local projects. The global initiatives are NKG Verified, NKG’s programme for sustainable coffee supplies to green buyers, and NKG Bloom, its programme for sustainable livelihoods. Through NKG Bloom, it identifies and provides the services producers need to address their key challenges and make coffee farming an attractive business for them and their families.

How can you get involved? The most immediate way to support NKG’s efforts is to buy coffee connected to the company, e.g. NKG Verified or NKG Bloom coffees. And there is more: You can partner with NKG. Co-invest in improvements and services in its existing supply chains. Or co-create tailormade initiatives in line with your key topics relying on NKG’s networks and expertise. NKG invite you to share your thoughts with the company. Together, responsibility must be taken today to build a sustainable coffee industry for tomorrow.

Reach out to NKG’s colleagues at Atlas Coffee Importers and InterAmerican Coffee at the SCA Expo or contact NKG’s Sustainable Business Unit in Hamburg, Germany.

Coffee Plaza · Am Sandtorpark 4 20457 Hamburg · Germany
Email: sustainablebusiness@nkg.coffee
Tel: +49 40 36123-451
Web: nkg.coffee/join

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Atlas Coffee Importers: R5, InterAmerican Coffee: 1647

NKG Bloom Uganda. Image: NKG

Ohki Co. Ltd

If you love coffee but hate waiting for it to brew, check out Chaput, a new product from Ohki that can make authentic drip coffee in just 10 seconds. Chaput is not your average instant coffee. It is a fast-infusion coffee filter that uses any type of ground coffee you prefer and produces a rich and flavourful cup of coffee in a flash.

How does it work? Chaput is a filter that looks like a teabag but has a sturdy handle that allows you to dip it into hot water and stir it around. Unlike other coffee bags that tend to float on the surface and take a long time to extract the flavor, Chaput’s handle helps you submerge the filter and swirl it around for optimal infusion. The result is a smooth and satisfying cup of coffee that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere.

Chaput is perfect for busy people who don’t have time to brew coffee in the morning or for travellers who want to enjoy their favourite coffee on the go. It is also ideal for hotels and restaurants that want to offer their guests a quick and easy way to make their own coffee without compromising on quality. Chaput is eco-friendly too, as it does not require any electricity or plastic capsules to operate. All you need is hot water and your favourite ground coffee.

Chaput is already a hit in Japan, where it was developed by OHKI, a company that specialises in innovative filter products. Ohki will be showcasing Chaput at the Specialty Coffee Expo in Portland this month, where you can see for yourself how fast and easy it is to make delicious drip coffee with Chaput.

Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the future of single-serve coffee!

Osaka, Japan
Email: mloffredo@ohki-okilon.co.jp
Web: ohki-okilon.co.jp/en/item-detail05-en/

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 861

Image: Ohki

Scolari Engineering SpA

Scolari GT.PRO – Artificial intelligence in coffee processing

Scolari Engineering is a world leader in the design, manufacture and installation of complete coffee roasting systems. It has always been focused on providing comprehensive support to its customers in the supply of coffee processing equipment and management software (SDB), as well as accompanying them in the development of blends and roasting profiles.

Scolari Engineering GT.PRO is an on-board production monitoring software that integrates the skills of the roaster, programmer and maintainer, enabling them to monitor production at every stage and apply corrective actions when necessary.

Information technology distinguishes between narrow (or weak) AI applications, such as weather apps and digital assistants, and mainstream (or strong) AI applications, including Scolari GT.PRO, which encapsulates the experience of a roasting technician as GT.PRO, which emulates human intelligence to handle complex tasks as an extension of human capabilities.

Efficiency, quality and savings

With GT.PRO, Scolari roasters are connected to the entire system and can achieve extremely high roast quality by recognising the type of coffee and autonomously adjusting the most suitable roast.

The system autonomously adjusts the most suitable roasting parameters, from air temperature to roasting chamber depression.

The system’s artificial intelligence is able to link the end-roasting temperature and coffee colour with extreme precision.

Another process that Scolari machines are able to manage virtually on their own is the constant monitoring of consumption, combined with energy recovery and self-regulation of energy carriers,

and with self-regulation of energy carriers, a decrease in utility bills and greener management of the plant is guaranteed.

Via Per Bresso n. 248, Cinisello Balsamo, (MI), 20092
Tel: +39 02 61456.1
Email: support@scolarieng.com

Interpack, Düsseldorf: Hall 1, B19

Image: Scolari Engineering

Syntegon

Syntegon is very excited to have the PMX packaging machine to bring to the coffee market. The PMX can be used for ground coffee and whole beans and can also accommodate different packaging formats thanks to fast changeover times.

A modular concept enables manufacturers to react quickly to fluctuating market requirements and customer needs. Along with its undeniable flexibility, the PMX simultaneously fulfils modern requirements with respect to sustainability and digitalisation. Moreover, the new digital solution Synexio Empower offers cost savings through condition monitoring by optimising energy and material consumption.

With the PMX, different bag variants and closure elements can be combined along with different sealing options, like full-corner-sealing, which allows for perfect shelf appearance. Therefore, specific customer requirements can be realised, while also achieving efficient output. For example: the PMX can pack up to 65 packages of 500 grams of whole coffee beans per minute. The machine can accommodate an output of up to 100 packages per minute through its double tube version.

During the packaging process, if the bag cross-section format is changed, the machine will be ready for use again after just 30 minutes. It is therefore suitable for small, medium, and large packaging formats.

The PMX produces coffee bags with package weights between 200 and 1200 grams, both with upright and downfolded top parts. The bags are resealable via tin tie, labels, or adhesive tape. If required, manufacturers can use an innovative spout closure through which the coffee beans are emptied out at the packaging side – a convenient feature, especially for end users. This “neutrafill” process, in which the coffee is gas-flushed before and during the packaging process, ensures aroma protection.

Syntegon Technology is a leading global process and packaging technology provider. The company, headquartered in Waiblingen, Germany, has been offering complete solutions for the pharmaceutical and food industries for over 50 years. The portfolio of intelligent and sustainable technologies includes stand-alone machines, along with complete systems and services. In the food industry, the portfolio includes process technology for confectionery, as well as packaging solutions for dry foods, frozen foods, bakery items, and dairy products.

Stuttgarter Straße 130, D-71332, Waiblingen, Germany
Tel: 770-981-5200
Email: connectwithus@syntegon.com
Web: syntegon.com/solutions/food/coffee-and-tea-packaging/

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 745
Interpack, Düsseldorf: Hall 6, A57

Syntegon PMX front view. Image: Syntegon

Tecpacking

Tecpacking located in Tianjin China is the leading supplier of Pyramid tea bag packing machines and other customised packing machines to the global market.  

Its mission is to manufacture and supply efficient, and high-quality tea bag packing machines and environmentally friendly packing materials to the global tea industry by continuously improving its processes and focus on the concept of total quality management.  

Tecpacking believes in customer partnerships and sharing gains with all its stakeholders. 

In its journey towards achieving its mission, it believes in four “4S” as stated below.   

• Stability of machinery performance,  

• Speed of machinery operation at higher productivity,  
• Safety of machinery operation for workers,
• Simplicity in technology and user friendliness.

Tecpacking has marked its presence globally and has served industry giants such as Lipton (Unilever) and Eswaran brothers, the market leader in Sri Lanka. 

Tecpacking has three showrooms located in Holland, the USA and Sri Lanka with machines available for demonstration purposes. 

The tea bag packing machines of Tecpacking are capable of handling 100 bags per minute with a weight-based accuracy of +_0.1g of the target weight. This range of machines are becoming extremely popular with the customers with the two-year comprehensive warranty provided against any design and manufacturing defects. 

Further to the tea bagging machines, Tecpacking is also manufacturing other associated machines such as bag envelope machines and drip coffee bag machines. 

In the field of material, its product Ecomesh has become the main attraction of environmental friendly, biodegradable wrapping material in the tea industry and added value due to its innovative design. 

Tecpacking also acts as an thought leader in the global tea market by sharing regular thought provoking market information, analysis of the tea industry and the tea packaging market. This information can be viewed on www.teapacker.org. 

See more on its website www.tecpacking.com and www.tecpacking.cn , and it happily welcomes any inquires from its valued customers at any time.

No.52-4-501,Liando , Ruike Rd,
Shuanggang high-tech industry zone,Tianjin China.

Image: Tecpacking

Toper Roasters

A story of passion, ingenuity, and determination

The internationally renowned brand, Toper Roasters, started in a small 33m² workshop in Izmir, Turkey. Nurettin Karakundakoğlu, the founder and mastermind behind Toper Roasters, began manufacturing high-quality coffee roasters in 1953 and quickly caught the attention of international buyers.

Over the years, Nurettin and his family continued to master building precise and intuitive machinery that has revolutionised the coffee production industry.

In 1995, Toper Roasters began exporting their machinery abroad and brought their knowledge and craftsmanship to countries like Romania, the USA, Canada and Italy.

Today, you can find Toper Roasters in over 146 countries! To learn more about Toper Roasters, you can visit its website.

POSB 7.Cadde, No:22, Pancar, Torbali, İzmir, Turkey
Tel: +902322540121
Email: info@toper.com
Web: toper.com

Specialty Coffee Expo, Portland: Booth 451

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“Philippe is an outstanding leader who comes to Costa with a deep background in business and a passion for building great brands,” said Evguenia “Jeny” Stoichkova, president of Global Ventures for The Coca-Cola Company. “We look forward to working with Philippe to expand on the plans we have developed to grow Costa, both in its home country of England and beyond.”

Schaillee began his career with the Sara Lee Group in Belgium in 1994, where he held various marketing roles. In 2000, he moved to the United States, where he was executive vice president of marketing for the coffee and tea businesses. He later became EVP of the beverages division.

In 2006, he was named EVP of the Breakfast, Snacking & Beverages division. In 2008, he was appointed SVP, chief marketing officer and executive committee member for all of the Sara Lee Group’s categories in the United States.

In 2012, Schaillee returned to Europe, where he joined Jacob Douwe Egberts (JDE) Group. He was named president of the Professional Coffee Division and served as a member of their executive committee.

Most recently, he has been a member of the executive committee at France-based Groupe SEB, which is a global market leader in cookware, small domestic appliances and professional coffee equipment, with brands that include WMF, Schaerer, All-Clad, Krups, Tefal and Rowenta.

“I have long admired Costa and appreciate the company’s deep history and heritage,” Schaillee said. “I am excited to join the great team at Costa and look forward to learning and growing the business with them.”

Schaillee is a graduate of Catholic University Leuven and holds an MBA from Vlerick Leuven Ghent Management School, both in Belgium.

Schaillee succeeds former Costa CEO Jill McDonald. He will report to Stoichkova and will be based in London.

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Below is a preview list of the 2023 World Tea Conference + Expo international exhibitors:

China
China Ethnic International Exhibition Co.
Fujian Tianhui Industrial Co.,Ltd.
Fuzhou Tengem International Trading Co, Ltd.
Zhejiang Camel Transworld Organic Foods Co., Ltd.
Yichang Tea Group
Skyherb Nutritionals Inc.
Shijiazhuang Longzhitai Packaging Co. Ltd

Japan
FUSO International (Nasa Corporation)
Sasaki Green Tea Company
OHKI Co., Ltd.
KOTODO
zenGate Global

Canada
Metropolitan Tea Company
TeaLovers.com
T-Sac/Aqua Select

India
Luxmi Estates
Jay Shree Tea and Industries Ltd
Dweller Teas

Kenya
Muthaiga Tea Company

United Kingdom
Jade Tea Ltd.

Taiwan
Shen Xian Tea Co. Ltd.

El Salvador
Lafiroa Tea

Sri Lanka
Sterling Cuppa
Sri Lanka Tea Board

Nepal
Nepal Tea Quality from the Himalayas

Jamaica
Up to the Tea

Poland
SCORPION s.c.

Registration to World Tea Conference + Expo provides attendees access to learn, sample, and expand
their tea knowledge with exhibitors from around the globe. World Tea Conference + Expo
is a trade event that is not open to the public. Register now at WorldTeaExpo.com.

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In spite of global warming and frequent unfavourable weather episodes, output continues to increase within the major tea-producing areas, whilst consumption is not keeping pace, which is generating a gap between supply and demand. This was explained by the International Tea Committee (ITC) Chairman Ian Gibbs during the North American Tea Conference last fall, with an ITC chart covering the past 20 years and showing a well-matched growth of production that was fully absorbed by consumption from years 2001 to 2013. Since then global production continues to grow, but global demand is lagging behind.

With widely acknowledged labour shortage, ever increasing production costs, depressed prices at farm gate level and often adverse weather conditions, the feedback from the various origin countries requires a more focused look at the local economic and topographic conditions. Tea is highly diversified, with its cups ranging from fast moving consumer goods in the mass market segment to highly priced premium leaf in specialty niche markets, and consumer preferences and tea drinking habits vary widely between the continents.

Production continues to rise

The most recent ITC Annual Bulletin of Statistics outlines the developments from 2012 through 2021, with an overall production increase resulting in a world total volume of 6.455 million metric tonnes (mt) of tea, ie, up by 37 percent, since 2012, which is considerable. Since the early 2000s, the world’s three biggest tea producers are China, India and Kenya.

In 2021, China’s output stood at just over three million mt, which represents 47.5 percent of the global volume and shows an increase of 71 percent over the past decade, with a steadily rising domestic consumption calculated to stand currently at 1.78 kg per head.

In India, which had been the world’s number one tea producer until 2006, the 2021 tea output of 1.343 million mt represented 21 percent of the global volume, up 19 percent since 2012. India’s calculated annual per capita tea consumption of 0.81 kg.

Kenya, which has been among the top three global tea producers since it replaced Sri Lanka in 2007, had an output of 0.538 million mt in 2021, had had a growth of 45 percent since 2012. It represents 8 percent of the global volume that is geared mainly to the export market.

The subsequent positions as longstanding major tea producers are Sri Lanka (fourth with 0.299 million mt), Turkey (fifth with 0.282 million mt), Vietnam (sixth with 0.180 million mt, and Indonesia (seventh 0.127 million mt) all data referring to 2021. These seven origin countries have been supplying 88 percent of the global output in 2012, and increased their share of the global supply volume to 90 percent in 2021.

Considering that there are currently 37 countries involved in commercially significant tea production, the figures above show an important concentration. Furthermore, there are countries that continue to lose tonnage like Indonesia, Argentina and Japan, whilst others harvest significantly increasing volume like Uganda and Bangladesh. Political troubles weigh heavily on Sri Lanka’s tea economy and the war between Ukraine and Russia is affecting the traditional trade flow patterns.

Consumption lags production

There are a many changes on the consumption side as well, starting with continued growth of domestic consumption in many producing countries, which impacts the availability of tea for export. According to ITC data, the percentage of the global tea production in volume that is available for export globally dropped from 37.7 percent in 2012 to 29.8 percent in 2021, which is less than one third of the global output. Hence the volume of tea that was traded in 2021 amounted to 1.923 million mt, compared to the total output of 6,455 million mt.

It’s important to note that tea trade is primarily the export to such countries, where tea growing is not possible or only possible in small areas. However, some consumer countries refine some of their imported teas for re-export, often as branded premium, which is the case particularly in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and in Morocco. In addition, there is also some trade between producing countries and which is on the rise, with China importing from India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Kenya mainly, whilst Japan imports from China, Sri Lanka, India and Kenya, and Turkey imports from Sri Lanka, et cetera.

In 2021, the biggest tea importing markets were Pakistan with 247,000 mt, the Russian Federation plus the CIS countries with 236,000 mt, followed by the USA with 115,000 mt, Egypt with 99,000 mt, the UK with 92,000 mt, and Morocco with 71,000mt (the data refers to imports for home consumption). With the pandemic hampering operations and the political conflicts impacting traditional trade flows, some reshuffling is under way to readjust demand and supply.

Recent investments by foreign tea operators, like companies from Sri Lanka and Japan which set up production in East Africa, and Taiwanese companies that invest in China and New Zealand may generate more new developments in the coming years.

Black teas vs green teas vs other teas

Longstanding habits of black-tea drinkers fashioned by British colonial traditions, be it with or without milk, are ingrained in Europe and North America as well as in many African and Central Asian consumer markets. Green tea consumption remains deep rooted and dominant in all the ‘tea cradle countries’: China, Japan, Taiwan, Korea and Vietnam.

The latter have produced 97 percent of the global green tea production, which amounted to 2.094 million mt in 2021. China is by far the biggest producer, consumer and exporter of green tea, with 0.312 million mt exported in 2021, the top customer being Morocco, followed by Uzbekistan, Ghana, Mauritania, Algeria, the Russian Federation, and Germany. The main export product is gunpowder green tea, a tightly rolled leaf of genuine green tea, which the Chinese call “Zhu cha”, aka pearl tea, because of the neatly rolled shape. Originating mainly from Zhejiang, province, where the flat tea estates allow for mechanical harvesting, these teas are then shipped from Shanghai. Twining, the oldest British tea brand, now owned by Allied Foods, operates a green tea factory there.

Although easy-to-brew mainstream green teas have been intensely promoted since the early 2000s, Western consumers have not yet developed any outstanding preference for them. Globally the 2021 green tea volume was 2.094 million mt – 32 percent of the world’s tea output – which demonstrates that black teas, ie, fully oxidised leaf continue to dominate. It’s important to also take into account the additional tea categories that have been introduced to the West by China since the beginning of the millennium. These include dark teas, oolong teas, which are gaining ground in the Western markets’ premium segment, and white teas, although it’s a small share. According to YU Lu, vice president of the China Chamber of Commerce for Food and Life stock (CFNA) located in Beijing, these specifically Chinese tea categories represent approximately 24 percent of the output in China’s domestic tea market, which translates into a volume of around 735,000 mt.

When looking at the various dividing lines, the distinction between black orthodox leaf tea and black CTC tea also offers some market insight, with CTC going mostly to the mainstream tea bag segment, whilst orthodox teas are generally more pricy and more premium. ITC data shows that the black tea output from the main producers in 2021 amounted to a global volume of 3.56 million mt, shared out at 60 percent for CTC and 40 percent for orthodox leaf.

Volume wise, current market data show that black teas represent about 55 percent, green teas about 32 percent and other teas (ie, oolong and dark teas and white teas) about 13 percent of the world tea production today.

Promoting tea globally remains challenging

A significant step forward towards a global promotion of tea drinking was the official introduction of the annual International Tea Day (ITD), which takes place every year on 21 May. This coordinated highlighting of the cup on the same day all over the world, at a time when most of the spring teas have been harvested, was approved by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2019.

Tea was celebrated together with coffee and cocoa during the United Nations (UN) Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) International Food Day on 15 October 2021, during a special session which highlighted the important contribution of the three crops as revenue providing to millions of smallholders, and this was indeed a first.

However, contrary to coffee and cocoa, which both have their product’s markets monitoring enshrined in an International Agreement for more than 50 years, tea has not yet reached that level of attention. The global tea market monitoring is entrusted to the Intergovernmental Group (IGG) Tea, which was established in 1969 within the Rome, Italy-based UN FAO. Dr Jean Luc Mastaki has been handling the IGG Tea since 2017, following the retirement of FAO official Kaison Chang.

The 24^th FAO IGG Tea virtual plenary session, which took place in February 2022, concluded that in order to capitalise on emerging market opportunities and pro-actively address upcoming trends, the IGG Tea is invited to “take note of the emerging trends in tea consumption in both new and traditional markets, discuss the possible scope for renewed international coordination of generic promotion for tea, and provide guidance regarding actions to respond to the emerging market trends, including the role of digital solutions.”

The FAO IGG Tea also initiated the first International Scientific Symposium on Tea & Human Health. The first ever event of that kind, which was held in the United States in 2000, did generate significant awareness about the many reported health benefits of tea. Over the years more and more research has been published and the 6^th International Scientific Symposium on Tea and Human Health was run as a virtual session, monitored by the Tea Association of the USA, in April 2022, attracting significant and renewed attention to the cup.

Tea may well be at a crossroad, with a need for more global communication about the wealth of benefits which the cups bring along to all consumer groups, whatever their age and their homelands. The many ways to consume tea offers great flexibility, the agricultural side provides income to millions of small holders and alleviates rural poverty, whilst the cups themselves provide hydration, psycho active stimulation, mood improvement and antioxidant effects to consumers all over the globe. During the height of the pandemic and through 2022, most of these important global events were run as virtual sessions, which took away a big share of their impact. One may hope that follow up in life will soon be possible and allow for more lime light to shine on the cup.

• Barbara Dufrêne is the former Secretary General of the European Tea Committee and editor of La Nouvelle du Thé. She may be reached at: b-dufrêne@orange.fr.

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The study, titled Fairtrade certification and producer resilience in times of crises and conducted by Scio Network and Athena Infonomics, examined the experiences of Fairtrade and non-Fairtrade coffee, banana and flower producers in Indonesia, Peru, and Kenya, finding that households belonging to Fairtrade-certified producer organisations were 12% less likely to report “a high or very high impact” from COVID-19, as compared to non-Fairtrade households.

“Our research shows that Fairtrade certification increased the social well-being of households by up to 20%, as opposed to no or alternative certification,” said Manuela Günther, lead on monitoring and impact evaluation at Scio Network and the study’s research manager. “Households related to Fairtrade certified producer organisations also had a higher economic resilience, which helped them to better weather the impact of COVID-19 and will contribute to greater resilience in the face of future crises as well.

In preparing the study, the researchers developed a resilience index based on the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which includes four criteria, covering social wellbeing, economic resilience, good governance, and environmental integrity. Households from Fairtrade certified producers scored 9% higher on the overall index than non-certified counterparts (64% compared to 55%). On the dimension of social wellbeing – which includes elements such as food and nutrition security and children’s school attendance – Fairtrade certified producers scored 18% higher. Economic resilience – which includes financial literacy, bookkeeping, insurance, and savings – received a score of 6% higher. Good governance and environmental integrity scores, on the other hand, were more similar between Fairtrade and non-Fairtrade households.

“Although good governance and environmental integrity are very important in their own right, during the pandemic we found that aspects of social wellbeing, such as income diversification and food and nutrition security, and economic resilience, meaning access to credit for producer organisations and savings among households, were associated with a lower impact from COVID-19,” noted Bilal Afroz, senior consultant at Athena Infonomics and co-author of the report.

“Our study is one of the first to examine the key elements that empowered some producer organisations and farmer and worker households to get through the most intense period of COVID-19 in better shape than others,” Mr. Afroz added.

In analysing different product supply chains, Kenyan flower workers’ households belonging to Fairtrade producer organisations scored the highest with a resilience score of 70%, followed by Indonesian coffee farming households (67%), and Peruvian banana farming households (53%). In each case, these scores are higher than those of the non-Fairtrade counterparts, with the greatest difference between certified and non-certified farmers observed in coffee farmers. Fairtrade certified households in coffee value chains, in fact, score a full 13% points higher in the resilience metrics, compared to non-Fairtrade households.

The study also identifies key factors that relieved some of the burden of the pandemic on Fairtrade-certified organisations and households, including whether an organisation had pre-existing financial sustainability and access to credit; whether it received support from Fairtrade’s €15 million COVID-19 Relief and Resilience Fund; and whether it delivered income diversification and food security initiatives for its members and workers.

The report, commissioned by Fairtrade International through funding from the German Ministry for Economic Development Cooperation (BMZ) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), echoes the findings from a similar Fairtrade study released in June 2022 on producer resilience. Key findings are being discussed at a virtual panel event on 18 October.

“We know that with climate change and current global political and economic instability, farmers and workers will face increasing challenges in the near future,” said Dr. Arisbe Mendoza, director of global impact at Fairtrade International. “That’s why we call on all actors to ensure that farmers continue to receive emergency cash contributions to tackle urgent health and safety needs and losses and damages, fairer prices through long-term trade relationships so they can build financial stability, and access to credit and income so that they are empowered to invest in a more sustainable and diverse mix of income streams.”

“The conclusions from this report are clear,” Dr. Mendoza added. “And we urge everyone – from companies and governments to civil society actors and beyond – to read this report, understand its lessons and apply them immediately, so that agricultural households and communities can strengthen their resilience to face the expected growth in shocks and stresses set to come.”

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While the use of robots and cobots is nothing new, widespread disruption to production lines during the pandemic and subsequent disruption to supply chains together with labour shortages are driving consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies to adopt automated solutions. A new report, The Future of Automation in Packaging and Processing, which was released during PEI (23-26 October) by show organiser PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, highlights how CPGs are looking to enhance and optimise their production, storage, and distribution processes using automated solutions including automated guided vehicles, industrial robots, collaborative robots, and mobile robots, with some of these technologies being supported by artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced vision tools.

According to the report, e-commerce is fueling the automation trend, moving companies toward more responsive modes of distribution such as direct-to-customer, disrupting traditionally highly manual warehousing formats, and in some cases eliminating the need for warehousing.

Additionally, supply chain problems are impacting the availability and cost of raw materials and parts for packaging machinery. More than 90% of CPGs [in the report] say these problems are either extremely impactful or somewhat impactful and while most companies expect them to be resolved over the short term (within three years) at least 25% of companies anticipate them persisting over a longer time span, per the report.

Furthermore, 60% of companies [in the report] say that labour shortages are extremely impactful on their packaging and processing operations, pushing CPGs toward automation, and increasing the importance of developing a skilled workforce.

“The labour shortage is a significant problem, so the question is how to use technology to compensate for a reduced workforce,” said Jorge Izquierdo, vice president, market development, PMMI, during a conversation at PEI. “The challenge [for equipment manufacturers] is to provide machinery that can be operated by fewer people [often one person] but that also maintains high speeds and volume.” He added, however, that the key is making training accessible and employee retention.

The potential for automation and robotics to reduce the reliance on personnel and accommodate lower skilled workers was cited in the report, as was the possibility of reducing the amount of monotonous and less rewarding work that must be done manually. Common sentiments from PEI exhibitors regarding the use of automation included that it can reduce the ‘drudgery type work’ and it can replace labour so employees can be moved to more complex jobs.

At PEI in Universal Robots’ (UR) booth, Robotiq was demonstrating a palletising solution deployed with a UR20 cobot arm. Ryan Weaver, vice president, commercial at Robotiq said that robotic automation is very flexible as the machines can easily be changed from filling boxes to loading boxes onto pallets. “Automated palletising replaces manual palletising, which can help with labour shortages,” he said, adding, “it also helps to retain quality labour [employees] so they may be deployed to areas where their skills are better served.”

The roles of automation technologies are expanding in the packaging and processing industry as they are a strong strategy to help cut costs, improve productivity, and reduce dependency on personnel as skills and retention problems continue to plague companies.

• Vanessa L Facenda, editor, Tea & Coffee Trade Journal.
  Keep in touch via email: vanessa@bellpublishing.com Twitter: @TCTradeJournal or LinkedIn: Tea & Coffee Trade Journal

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