Women's Coffee Collectives

At Crush Coffee we are 100% committed to our vision of changing the role of women in coffee. Presently women make up 70% of the labourers on coffee farms and are paid approximately 35% less than their male counterparts, making it difficult for them to access resources, education, and proper care for themselves and their families. For this reason we only source our beans from women’s collectives – 100% women owned and managed.

Every purchase of a bag of Crush Coffee not only supports women across the globe, but it supports women here in our own community through employment opportunities and the Uncommon Woman Leadership in STEM Scholarship.

In the vast, verdant landscapes where the world’s coffee is cultivated, there has been a quiet revolution brewing. For too long, the history of coffee production has been steeped in inequality, with women farmers facing systemic barriers, underpayment, and a lack of representation. Yet, against this backdrop of adversity, a new chapter is being written by women who are sowing the seeds of change, one coffee bean at a time.

Historically, women in coffee farming have performed the lion’s share of labor—from planting and harvesting to processing and selling—yet, their contributions have often been overshadowed by their male counterparts. In many coffee-growing regions, patriarchal structures limited women’s access to land, education, and financial resources, effectively silencing their voices in decision-making processes. Consequently, despite their pivotal role, women were frequently treated as secondary participants in the industry, receiving lower wages and enduring tougher working conditions.

The narrative, however, is shifting, thanks to the resilient spirits of women coffee farmers across the globe and the burgeoning movement towards women’s coffee collectives. These collectives represent more than just a united front; they are a beacon of empowerment, sustainability, and equity. By banding together, women are amplifying their voices, increasing their bargaining power, and ensuring a fairer distribution of profits. Collectives provide educational opportunities, from agronomy practices to financial management, fostering a supportive network that champions the success of its members.

Women’s coffee collectives are not only changing the dynamics of coffee production but are also making significant strides towards gender equity. They challenge the status quo, promoting land ownership and leadership roles for women in their communities. Beyond the economic benefits, these collectives serve as platforms for social change, encouraging shifts in cultural attitudes towards women’s rights and contributions.

Moreover, coffees produced by women’s collectives are garnering global attention for their exceptional quality and the stories they carry. Consumers are increasingly seeking out these coffees, drawn to the ethical implications of supporting gender equity and sustainability in the coffee sector. This growing demand exemplifies a broader trend towards conscious consumption, where every cup of coffee serves as a testament to empowerment and progress.

As we witness this remarkable evolution, it’s clear that women coffee farmers and their collectives are not only crafting a more equitable coffee industry but are also brewing a stronger, more inclusive future. Their journey from the shadows to the spotlight underscores the undeniable power of unity and perseverance. As they cultivate their lands, they are also cultivating hope—hope for a world where the fruits of their labor are rightfully acknowledged and celebrated.

In the end, the story of women coffee farmers is about more than just coffee. It’s a story of resilience, empowerment, and the undying belief in the possibility of change. As we savor our next cup of coffee, let’s remember the hands that nurtured it and the collective strength that brought it to our tables.