Coffee is the second-most traded commodity in the world, behind petroleum. Every day, coffee traders buy and sell billions of dollars of coffee beans from countries all around the world. As coffee consumption has increased, coffee suppliers, roasters and distributors must stay ahead of the latest trends in order to keep up with the changing market.
Unfortunately, evaluating coffee trends is complicated. Many factors come into play, including the quality of coffee beans, the roasting process, the brewing method, and market dynamics. Most people think only of the obvious parameters when evaluating trends in coffee, such as the origin of the beans, the type of coffee, and the quality of the coffee. However, there are some unusual factors to consider which can help to get the most out of the data.
One important factor is the history and development of coffee plantations. Generally, coffee plantations can be divided into two categories: large-scale plantations, which are often found in Colombia, Indonesia, and other countries located in traditional coffee production regions; and smallholder coffee farmers, which operate in Mexico or Indonesia, for example. This factor can help to identify where the best coffees are grown and how different beans produce different flavors and aromas.
Another factor is the geography of the region where the beans are grown. Different coffee producing regions have different climates, which can influence the flavor and aroma of the beans. Different coffee producing areas have different land use policies, which can influence the quality of the beans.
Moreover, the economic factors at play are important. Coffee prices are subject to the laws of supply and demand, so the market price can be influenced by economic conditions, especially in producing countries. In addition, fair trade policies and other initiatives which favor smallholder farmers can have an impact on the market and affect how the coffee is priced.
Technology is also a factor. Recent technological innovations in coffee processing and roasting can help to produce superior coffees with unique flavors. Companies that are ahead of the technology curve can create more flavorful, higher-quality coffees than their competitors.
Finally, the various distribution channels for coffee should be taken into account when evaluating trends in coffee. The retail coffee market is growing rapidly, with coffee sold online, through supermarkets, and in specialty coffee shops. Each channel has different requirements and preferences, so it’s important to understand them to ensure maximum market penetration.
While most people focus on the quality, origin, and type of coffee when evaluating coffee trends, there are a number of unusual factors to consider such as the geography, economic conditions, technology, and distribution channels. By taking these factors into account, coffee suppliers, roasters, and distributors can better understand the changing coffee market and make informed decisions.
