KARLSTAD, Sweden – The Löfberg family is strengthening its commitment to the world’s coffee farmers: a new foundation will contribute to a more sustainable development in the production countries. The funds of the foundation will be used for development projects, research and education.
– We have long-term and close relationships with coffee farmers all over the world, and we know that the climate change is one of their greatest challenges.
That is why it feels natural for us to focus on the sustainability work in the coffee producing countries, says Therese Gustafsson, a fourth-generation member of the Löfberg family and chairman of The Löfberg Family Foundation.
Löfbergs, together with four other family-owned coffee companies, took in 2001 the initiative to International Coffee Partnes, which funds and carry through development projects in production countries. So far, more than 25,000 coffee farmers have participated in the projects. The owners of the company now want to increase their commitment.
– The coffee roastery Löfbergs will continue to take responsibility for people and environment. This is a way for us as owners to do even more, says Therese Gustafsson.
Half a million in initial capital
According to the statues, The Löfberg Family Foundation will promote sustainable development in coffee producing countries – environmentally, socially and financially. This may be development projects, research, education or different grants.
The foundation has an initial capital of half a million Swedish crowns; the founders will also contribute with more money every year. The foundation’s board of directors consists of the siblings Therese Gustafsson, Martin Löfberg and Kathrine Löfberg.
First out: Ethiopia
The new foundation has already started its first project: Coffee Alliance For Ethiopia (CAFÉ). This project is carried out together with Lavazza Foundation, Neumann Stiftung and several local operators, among others.
The purpose is to improve the competitiveness and income for the coffee farmers and their families through sustainable farming methods as well as better knowledge regarding the sale of coffee. The project will run for five years and have a total budget of SEK 10 million.
– During the first two years, we will provide support for approximately 1,000 coffee farmers. At the same time, we will especially focus on strengthening the role of the women, as we know that equality in cooperatives make them develop and do better, says Therese Gustafsson.
