Why Coffee Prices Rise (And How We Work to Keep Them Down)
If you’ve been enjoying your daily cup of coffee, you may have noticed that prices at cafés and grocery stores have been rising. While we at Blue Hummingbird Coffee do our best to keep prices as stable and fair as possible, there are factors beyond our control that impact the cost of coffee. Understanding why coffee prices rise can help shed light on what goes into every cup—and how we strive to balance quality with affordability.
Why Are Coffee Prices Going Up?
Several factors have contributed to the recent rise in coffee prices. Here are some of the biggest ones:
Rising Global Demand & Supply Chain Costs
Coffee consumption is growing worldwide, particularly in emerging markets where demand for high-quality coffee is increasing. This growing demand puts pressure on an already limited supply, driving up prices.
On top of that, coffee goes through a long supply chain that includes farming, harvesting, processing, exporting, roasting, and brewing. At every stage, costs are rising:
- Shipping & Transportation – Fuel prices and freight costs have gone up, making it more expensive to move coffee from farms to roasters.
- Warehousing & Storage – The cost of storing coffee beans has increased due to inflation and supply chain disruptions.
- Labor & Wages – Fair wages for farmers and workers are essential for sustainability, but they also add to the overall cost.
All of these factors combined mean that the cost of bringing high-quality coffee to your cup is higher than ever.
Extreme Weather Conditions in Coffee-Growing Regions
Coffee is a delicate crop, and it’s highly sensitive to climate conditions. In the last year, major coffee-producing countries have faced severe weather events that drastically reduced their yields:
- Brazil – As the world’s largest coffee producer, Brazil plays a huge role in global coffee supply. In 2024, the country experienced severe droughts, which led to lower coffee production and, in turn, higher prices.
- Vietnam – The second-largest coffee producer, Vietnam, was hit by heavy storms that damaged crops and disrupted exports, further tightening supply.
With climate change making weather patterns more unpredictable, coffee crops are becoming more vulnerable, which could continue to impact pricing in the future.
How We’re Working to Keep Prices Fair
At Blue Hummingbird Coffee, we know that rising prices are frustrating, and we’re doing everything we can to keep our coffee as affordable as possible while maintaining the quality you expect. Here’s how:
- Strategic Purchasing – We work closely with trusted importers and farmers to secure long-term contracts at stable prices, helping us avoid sudden spikes in cost.
- Direct Relationships with Farmers – By maintaining strong relationships with coffee producers, we can often negotiate better pricing while ensuring ethical and sustainable sourcing.
- Efficient Operations – We continuously refine our roasting and café processes to minimize waste and keep costs manageable without sacrificing quality.
- Thoughtful Pricing – Rather than making broad price increases, we carefully adjust only where necessary, ensuring we’re providing the best value possible.
Specialty Coffee Pricing: The Bigger Picture
Unlike mass-market coffee brands that often use lower-quality beans or cost-cutting methods, specialty coffee operates on a different model. We’re committed to sourcing responsibly, paying fair prices to farmers, and ensuring every cup you enjoy meets the highest standards of quality.
We appreciate your understanding that coffee prices are influenced by many external factors, but know that we’re always working behind the scenes to keep things as stable as possible. When you choose Blue Hummingbird Coffee, you’re not just buying a drink—you’re supporting sustainable farming, fair wages, and a shared love for truly great coffee.
Thank you for being part of our journey. We’re grateful to serve you every day!
