Cafédirect plc
"We need a bank that understands our mission, and our business potential to provide essential financial support during challenging times. We are fortunate that Triodos shares our vision for Fairtrade and is able to provide the financial support we require." - Phil King, Financial Director, Cafédirect plc
Taking Fairtrade from Niche to Mainstream
Cafédirect plc was set up in 1991 in response to the collapse in world coffee prices. Its mission is to be the leading brand that strengthens the influence, income and security of producer partners in the South and to link them directly with consumers in the North. Today Cafédirect is the UK's largest Fairtrade hot drinks company selling premium quality coffees, teas and drinking chocolate sourced from 33 producer partners groups in 11 countries around the world.
Through Cafédirect's unique Gold Standard Trading Policy the company guarantees to pay fair prices above market rates and provides business and organisational support to farmers' organisations, strengthening their position locally and internationally over the long term.
Cafédirect is now the 6th biggest coffee brand in the UK and Teadirect is one of the fastest growing tea brands. With the launch of Cocodirect drinking chocolate the company is now operating in all segments of the hot beverages market.
Triodos Bank provides Cafédirect with a full banking service and works closely with the company to help support their unique trading model. Triodos also sponsored the Cafédirect share issue in 2004, raising £5 million.
- Open a savings account
- Download the opening form or ask for the brochure first
- 2007 - A good year for banking?
- During a turbulent year for the banking industry, Triodos Bank grew further in 2007. Our balance sheet is up by 23%, while our funds entrusted have increased by 17% to £2.4 billion. (29 Feb 2008)
- What Credit Crunch?
- Triodos Bank lent £33 million to charities and social enterprises in 2007, more than doubling the previous year’s result. This, in spite of a financial climate that’s left many mainstream banks struggling to find the cash they need to meet their lending commitments. (14 Feb 2008)
- Green-eyed Monsters?
- When it comes to their banking, new research suggests ethical consumers are not as green as they think. (25 Oct 2007)