This month sees the return of Fairtrade Fortnight (27 February to 12 March), an important worldwide campaign which focuses on protecting and securing the future of some of our most-loved food and drink – including chocolate, bananas and, of course, coffee – as well as looking after the planet. A campaign which allows companies like Ivybridge-based roastery, Owens Coffee, to once again invite its community to get involved.
With its entire range certified organic by the Soil Association and Fairtrade by the Fairtrade Foundation, Owens Coffee believes in the benefits these organisations bring to the coffee producer and the environment. With an important, direct relationship with farmers, the Owens Coffee team love working with producers they admire and respect.
“We source our coffee beans consciously. As one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, it’s important for consumers to also make a conscious choice when purchasing coffee. Whether that be in a coffee shop, supermarket or from a local roastery like ours, Fairtrade coffee is widely available in the UK and, by choosing Fair Trade products, you will make a huge difference not just to the taste of your morning cuppa but to the growers and the planet.” says Managing Director of Owens Coffee, Lorraine Bridden.
During Fairtrade Fortnight, Thérèse Nyrangwabije and Vincent Nsengiyumva of the Twongerekawa Coko Cooperative are visiting the Owens Coffee roastery on a trip organised by Fairtrade Devon’s Alison Derrick and Sue Etherington, in partnership with Fairtrade South West. The cooperative is made up of a small group of mostly women, based in Northern Rwanda and found in the highest areas of the Gakenke District. These women are celebrated community leaders: supporting them supports their communities.
Jabulani Coffee is sourced from the Twongereka Coko Cooperative and produced in partnership between Owens Coffee and Jabo Butera, resulting from a Diversity Business Incubator (DBI) project, which is a Business Hub for Minority Ethnicity entrepreneurs. Owens and Jabo have a direct relationship with this cooperative, with sales of the beans supporting an initiative which connects ambassadors from the UK and Rwanda to exchange knowledge, nurture leadership and encourage positive global change. In summer 2022, Jabo and Liz Orgill of Owens Coffee visited Rwanda and were involved in the creation of a film about how a remarkable spirit of togetherness inspires a nation and binds this coffee with a purpose.
International Women’s Day (8 March) also falls during Fairtrade Fortnight, giving yet more reason to celebrate the incredible women of the Twongerekawa Coko Cooperative and their brilliant coffee beans, which are in the top 10% of quality in the world and classed as ‘speciality grade’. On March 8, Owens Coffee will be joined by Thérèse Nyrangwabije and Vincent Nsengiyumva in Ivybridge to celebrate all things Fairtrade.
“We are delighted to be welcoming Thérèse and Vincent to Ivybridge’s Fairtrade Celebration. The event will see discussions about re-energising the Fairtrade Ivybridge Town Group and regaining its Fairtrade status,” says Lorraine Bridden. “We are very excited about the prospect, as we too would be delighted to see it become a Fairtrade town once again.”
Locals are encouraged to visit the Owens Coffee roastery during Fairtrade Fortnight to discover Jabulani and the rest of the incredible range. Just off the A38, the roastery features a shop and outdoor seating where customers can purchase Owens Coffee and enjoy takeaway coffee, crafted by the talented team, and cakes from local producers.
To shop the full range of Fairtrade and organic coffees or for further information about Owens Coffee, please visit owenscoffee.com or call 01752 897124. Like and follow Owens Coffee on Instagram @owenscoffee_, Facebook @OwensCoffee and Twitter @OwensCoffee.
