Green Mountain Coffee and Vermont Values

Good Morning Coffee Lovers,

A week before Halloween and I still can't believe that fall is ready to make its run into winter soon here in the Green Mountains of Vermont. As I poured a cup of Harvest Blend coffee just now, I debated how to address the recent woes of my peer's at Green Mountain Coffee in this week's coffee blog. I mean, how could I not address such a timely issue in a Vermont coffee blog?

Vermont Coffee and Vermont Values

For anyone living outside the state of Vermont, you need to know that the people who live here are passionate about two things: the local environment and supporting local businesses. I think that's why there has been such outcry over Green Mountain Coffee's recent financial dilemma and their use of the disposable K-cups as reported in the Burlington Free Press earlier this month.

So first off- I have to admit a certain amount of respect for anyone that can make their business thrive the way that this one has. It's not easy! Green Mountain Coffee is a household name in Vermont and beyond. I can also understand the dilemma with selling a coffee product that makes a lot of money and figuring out how to make it a part of sustainable business practices. (They make 60 million of the non-disposable K-cup containers each week!)

Brown and Jenkins Values

That being said, I feel the need to say we continually address that dilemma here at our own, much smaller, Vermont coffee roaster. The decision to stop carrying those individual creamer packs and to find compostable cups for take out coffee customers were both based on my own belief that I have a commitment to the earth and my local community.

I'd rather be the best small coffee roaster that consistently delivers a quality coffee product in line with my values, that the largest one that can not.

What's Your Opinion?

Vermonter or not, where do you stand on the Green Mountain Coffee issues? Do you feel that a business can grow without losing its core values? What is most important to you when you buy a product: quality, company values, locally made or something else?

You are such an important part of my coffee community and this business- I want to know your thoughts! By the way, you can purchase a reusable K-cup adapter for about $14, so you can still use your Keurig brewer with any coffee you choose.

Until our next cup,
Sandy Riggen