· By Olivia Piercey
Getting Coffee To Canada: A supply chain overview
- The journey begins in the coffee-growing regions of the world, such as South America, Central America, Africa, and Asia. At Saltwinds our beans come from Central and South America as well as Ethiopia. Dedicated farmers cultivate coffee trees, meticulously tending to the plants and harvesting the ripe coffee cherries. After harvest, the cherries undergo processing, which involves either the wet or dry method, to remove the outer fruit and extract the beans.
- Once the beans are processed, coffee importers step in to facilitate their transportation from the coffee-producing countries to Canada. These importers work closely with coffee producers and exporters, handling logistics, customs clearance, and quality control. In Canada, one does not need a license to import coffee, unlike many raw goods. However, the beans must be approved by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Importers often collaborate with coffee roasters and distributors to ensure a smooth flow of coffee beans throughout the supply chain.
- Upon arrival in Canada, the green coffee beans are transported to coffee roasters. Roasters play a vital role in the supply chain as they transform the green beans into the aromatic and flavourful coffee we enjoy. Roasting is an art that requires expertise and precision, as different beans and roast profiles yield distinct flavours. Roasters source beans from various origins, blend them to create unique flavour profiles, and roast them to perfection before packaging the roasted coffee. Saltwinds’ roastery is located in Douglas, NB, where we set to work to create unique and fresh blends!
- Once the beans are roasted, they are packaged in various forms, such as whole beans, ground coffee, or coffee pods. Packaging plays a crucial role in preserving the freshness and quality of the coffee. Coffee companies ensure their packaging meets industry standards, using airtight containers, one-way valves, or vacuum-sealed bags to maintain the flavour and aroma.
- The packaged coffee is then distributed to various channels, including supermarkets, specialty coffee shops, cafes, online retailers, and wholesalers. Distributors coordinate the transportation of coffee products from roasters to these channels, ensuring timely deliveries and maintaining stock levels.
- At the final stage of the supply chain, coffee reaches the hands of retailers and cafes across Canada. Supermarkets stock a wide range of coffee brands, catering to diverse consumer preferences. Specialty coffee shops and cafes focus on offering unique and high-quality coffee experiences, often sourcing beans directly from specific coffee farms or partnering with local roasters. These establishments prioritize brewing methods, such as espresso, pour-over, or cold brew, to create distinct flavours and enhance the coffee-drinking experience.