UNION DIRECT TRADE FUND

Brewing Impactful Change

Introducing the Union Direct Trade Fund: Extending Our Commitment to making a positive Impact

At Union Hand-Roasted Coffee, we believe that coffee should not only be a memorable experience but also a force for positive change. Building on the success of our award-winning sourcing initiative, Union Direct Trade, we're thrilled to introduce the Union Direct Trade Fund—an exciting extension of our commitment to quality, sustainability, and the well-being of everyone involved in our coffee journey.

The scope of the Union Direct Trade Fund is aligned with both the Sustainable Development Goals and our Impact Strategy Key Performance Indicators. This holistic approach to investing in the coffee supply chain embraces social, environmental, and economic sustainability, all while actively advancing our mission and goals.

Our Footprint - Health and Wellbeing for People and Planet

Our fund focuses on the health and well-being of all stakeholders, from coffee origin to your cup. With your support, we're committed to promoting workers' rights, gender equity, and the health and well-being of the communities we serve. Our investments will ensure adherence to ethical sourcing standards, protect the planet through sustainable practices, and empower vulnerable groups in coffee-producing regions and in the UK.

Our Community - Building Stronger Communities

We believe that thriving coffee communities are the heart of our industry. The Union Direct Trade Fund contributes to creating sustainable livelihoods at origin, paying our farmer partners fairly, and fostering community engagement. Our goal is to ensure prosperous living standards for all. As a B-Corp certified business, we are holding ourselves accountable, and actively participating in the wider movement for positive change.

Our Sourcing - Future Proofing Specialty Coffee

Specialty coffee is at the core of our identity, and we are dedicated to securing its future. Our fund promotes sustainability across our value chain and supports science-based agricultural solutions to secure a diverse and sustainable supply of specialty coffee for generations to come.

With Union Direct Trade and the Union Direct Trade Fund, we're not just brewing coffee; we're brewing impactful change.

Together, we are building a more sustainable future, one cup at a time. Thank you for being a part of our Union!

Union Direct Trade Fund Q&A

What is the objective of the Union Direct Trade Fund?

The Union Direct Trade Fund aims to support Union Direct Trade, fostering sustainable, ethical, and high-quality coffee production while aligning with Union’s Impact Strategy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Where does the fund primarily invest?

The fund primarily invests in coffee-related businesses, including producers, cooperatives, exporters, and other supply chain stakeholders. It also considers investments in related impact areas such as environmental sustainability and community development.

What geographic areas does the fund focus on?

The fund's geographic scope focuses on countries where Union sources coffee and the local community in the UK.

What impact stakeholders can expect from the fund?

Stakeholders can expect positive social, environmental, and economic impacts. This includes improvements in livelihoods, fair labour practices, gender equity, sustainable farming practices, environmental conservation, economic resilience for coffee producers, and investments in quality and innovation within the specialty coffee sector.

How is the fund governed?

The fund is managed by experts in impact investing, ethical coffee supply chains, and sustainable agriculture. It also has an advisory committee consisting of experts in coffee production, sustainability, and impact assessment. Robust reporting mechanisms ensure transparency, and stakeholder engagement is prioritised to gather feedback and address concerns.

What are the investment criteria for the fund?

The fund follows specific investment criteria aligned with its impact objectives, including factors such as fair pricing, environmentally friendly farming practices, social welfare programs, and governance standards.

How is impact measured?

The fund employs an impact measurement framework to assess its social, environmental, and economic outcomes, utilising industry-standard metrics and indicators.

How does the fund manage risks?

Risk management strategies are in place to mitigate financial, operational, and impact-related risks associated with the fund's investments.

What is the fund's capital raising and investment strategy?

Fundraising may involve contributions from Union Hand-Roasted Coffee, it’s customers and consumers, impact stakeholders, ethical funds, and institutions aligned with Union's mission.

More Info