IMPACT | SLOW FOR FARMERS
Supporting Livelihoods and Communities
Principle 1
On-the-ground presence
Slow Forest goes beyond sourcing trips to continuously support farmers in Laos with a team of 30+ experts in coffee-growing, community engagement, and forestry. We build genuine relationships, face challenges locally, ensure transparency, and take pride in our commitment to positive impact.
Principle 2
Focus on big volume, at a decent price, to truly increase income
Typical Slow Forest farmers grow 10% Typica coffee and 90% Catimor coffee. To address income challenges, Slow Forest purchases all types of coffee at a fair price, not just top-tier beans. Slow Forest's inclusive approach recognizes that most farmers don't grow high-quality coffee exclusively, and most consumers can't afford it.
Principle 3
Stabilising income
Slow Forest is working to stabilise coffee prices for farmers, ensuring a fair return for their produce. We guarantee a fixed minimum price, compatible with Fairtrade standards, and assists farmers in obtaining organic certification from the European Union, which can lead to higher coffee prices. We also stabilise prices for farmers in the face of rising costs, fluctuating prices and extreme weather events, prepaying farmers with upfront 40% of the harvest to ensure a stable income.
Principle 4
Diversifying income
Slow Forest farmers are heavily reliant on coffee for income, which exposes them to risk. Slow Forest is reducing risk by diversifying farmers' product range with fruit trees and honey. This will increase income per hectare. We are also working with partners to find additional buyers for farmers' green beans.
Principle 5
Each Slow Forest farmer is a micro-entrepreneur
Slow Forest farmers have their own micro wet-milling units, fermentation tanks, and drying tables. This allows them to process their coffee individually, adding value and fostering ownership. Each Slow Forest farmer has a direct contract with us, ensuring transparency and secure payments. This unique approach allows us to trace each bag of coffee back to its specific farmer, promoting accountability and connection.
Climate
Biodiversity
