Nestlé’s plans shape the future of coffee consumption and sustainable farming
Coffee is undoubtedly one of the most beloved beverages in the world. From the bustling streets of Johannesburg to the early morning rush in Paris, coffee fuels the world - whether it's for the quiet morning ritual or the jolt needed to power through the day. A recent report revealed that roughly half of the South African adult population start their day with a delicious cup, and over 2.25 billion cups of coffee are consumed daily across the globe. However, a revolution is brewing that goes beyond taste: it’s about the future of sustainable farming and consumption.
According to insights from Eighty20, the price of instant coffee surged by 22.3% year-on-year in August 2024, which has resulted in a noticeable shift in consumers preferences. This research has also indicated that nearly half of South African coffee drinkers prefer the Nestlé brand Ricoffy, which is enjoyed by more people than the five leading instant soluble coffee and chicory blend brands combined.
These trends point to not only how coffee is consumed, but why. While consumers look at factors such as taste profile and affordability, they also consider whether the coffee they drink has been ethically sourced. At the forefront of this is Nescafé, Nestlé's largest coffee brand and one of the world's favourite coffees.
In the Coffee Brew Index 2023, Nestlé ranked first in coffee sustainability as published in the Coffee Barometer report. This report showcased that Nestlé has a comprehensive plan in check, and that its strategy is built around sustainability efforts that have longevity when it comes to the social, environmental, and economic factors surrounding production.
Building on this is The Nescafé 2030 Progress Report, released in 2024, which shows significant strides in coffee sustainability. Regenerative farming practices are gaining traction, productivity is rising, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are declining. These initiatives are paying off for farmers too, with greater financial security as they battle climate unpredictability.
“At Nestlé, we believe that every cup of coffee has the power to make the world a better place. Nescafé is on a journey of circularity, improving the way farmers use their water as part of regenerative agriculture practices. This includes a strategy that centres around soil fertility while protecting water retention, biodiversity, carbon sequestration and reduction of GHGs.
“We are also on a mission to make almost 100% of our packaging designed for recycling by the end of 2025. All of this is part of our commitment to a future where coffee is enjoyed ethically without ever compromising on taste.” says Mark Helfrich - Packaging Engineering Manager at Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region (ESAR).
While Nestlé leads in many areas of sustainability, it is clear that the entire coffee industry must step up. The challenges of climate change, supply chain fairness, and environmental degradation require a collective effort to ensure coffee continues to be a viable product for future generations
The next time you grab your morning cup, consider the story behind the beans. Supporting brands like Nescafé not only means enjoying a great taste but also investing in the future of sustainable farming. When we choose brands that support the planet and people, we are making a statement about the kind of world we want to live in.
For more information visit Nescafé® Official Site | Nescafé South Africa