Coffee farmers overcome packaging challenges

FOR SMALL-SCALE coffee producers in developing countries, getting their coffee beans to market can be daunting. Rwandan farmers of Dukundekawa coffee faced this challenge as their coffee beans were deteriorating before reaching their destination due to inadequate packaging. The farmers needed a way to transport their coffee beans through packaging that maintained their quality, keeping the beans fresh, air-tight, and at the optimal temperature for consumption.

DP World identified the issue and, through DUBUY.com, sourced sustainable packaging from Swiss Pac, a leading UAE-based manufacturer. The farmers tested the packaging until they found the one that suited their beans. After branding and designing it, they ordered the customised coffee bags from Swiss Pac via DUBUY.com. The same SKU was then put back on DUBUY.com, with the local farmers being the buyers and sellers, showcasing the platform's full-circle process.

The collaboration between DP World and Swiss Pac created value and supported the growth of local communities. The tailored packaging allowed the Rwandan farmers to export their coffee beans internationally, supporting the livelihoods of over a thousand farmers who work on the land.

This initiative demonstrates the role of technology in enabling trade flow, breaking down traditional barriers and facilitating cross-border trade. DP World's digital platform, DUBUY.com, connected the Rwandan farmers with Swiss Pac, a UAE-based manufacturer, and expanded the farmers' potential customers beyond their local markets.

This success story also showcases how businesses can create a positive impact beyond just profits. By working with local communities, companies can address social and environmental challenges while creating economic value. In this case, the initiative helped the farmers improve the quality of their coffee beans, increase their income, and promote sustainable packaging solutions.

This case study is representative of the role of technology, innovation, and collaboration in supporting local communities. DP World and Swiss Pac went the extra mile to find a solution and support the farmers' growth journey, demonstrating the potential for businesses to create positive social and environmental impacts while generating economic value. As business executives, we should be inspired to think beyond profits and seek innovative ways to impact the world positively.

Mike Bhaskaran, Group COO of Digital Technology, DP World