Cafedirect

Cafedirect is one of the most structurally distinctive businesses in UK coffee. Founded as a fair trade pioneer, it operates as a social enterprise where farmers who supply the business sit on the Board, hold shares, and receive a portion of profits.

The roastery is in Meltham, West Yorkshire. Cafedirect works directly with cooperatives in Peru, Mexico, and Uganda, pays prices tied to living income targets (with 2030 as the goal), and has committed to 100% renewable energy and fully recyclable or compostable packaging.

It is certified B Corp, Soil Association organic, and is a Social Enterprise UK member. Among consumer coffee brands, it claims the highest B Corp score in supermarket distribution.

Its 2024 Progress Report documents the specific steps taken against these commitments.