Direct Trade
The cocoa beans and semi-finished cocoa products you see on our web store are 'directly traded', which means sourcing our cacao beans directly from farmers or producer groups by our buyers, effectively bypassing traditional intermediaries such as brokers or middlemen. This approach aims to establish a more direct and transparent relationship between the chocolate producer and the cacao farmer.
Key features of direct trade cacao include:
Direct Relationships: Chocolate makers who engage in direct trade establish direct relationships with cacao farmers or cooperatives. This can involve regular communication, visits to the farms, and a deeper understanding of the farming practices.Fair Compensation: Direct trade often emphasises fair compensation for cacao farmers. By eliminating middlemen, more of the profit can go directly to the farmers, potentially improving their livelihoods and the economic sustainability of their farms.
Quality and Flavour: Direct trade relationships may also focus on the quality of cacao beans. By working closely with farmers, chocolate makers can have more control over the growing and harvesting practices, which can influence the flavor profile of the final chocolate product.
Sustainability: Some direct trade initiatives prioritise sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. This can include organic farming, agroforestry, and other methods aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of cacao cultivation.
Transparency: Direct trade aims to provide greater transparency in the supply chain. Chocolate makers often share information about the farms, the farmers, and the specific conditions under which the cacao is grown and harvested.
When you buy from Cocoa Hub, you can be assured that the cocoa products your receive are directly traded through a transparent relationship between our buyer and the farm or producer group.