Working Groups
Working Groups are the engine of the B Corp Coffee Coalition
They bring together small groups of experts from member companies to work on clearly defined topics that are relevant across the coffee value circle. Participants contribute their practical experience and expertise, represent their organization’s and sector’s perspective, and act as a direct link between the working group and their company.
Each Working Group focuses on one shared challenge or opportunity and works on it over a defined period of time. The aim is to break down complex, industry wide issues into workable focus areas and develop shared approaches that go beyond individual company solutions. The outcome is practical and applicable, such as recommendations, frameworks, or shared ways of working that members can use within their own organizations.
From Poverty to Prosperity
Living income is a critical step toward a more equitable coffee sector — but it does not fully reflect what it takes for people and places in coffee to truly thrive. With millions of coffee farmers still living in poverty, prosperity must be understood in broader, more systemic terms.
This working group will build a shared, practical understanding of what “prosperity” can mean across the coffee value circle, looking beyond income alone to the wider conditions that support strong livelihoods, resilient businesses, and healthy ecosystems. By addressing the socioeconomic and environmental dimensions of prosperity, members will explore themes such as:
- fair and transparent value distribution across the value chain
- risk distribution and resilience in the face of climate and market volatility
- opportunities for education, security, and long-term wellbeing
- equity and representation for smallholders and workers, aligned with a prosperity price index
The aim is to work together toward shared reference points, principles, and approaches that reflect the complexity of prosperity in coffee, and that can evolve through collective learning and action. The direction, priorities, and outcomes will be shaped by participating members.
Purpose-Led Coffee Workforce
Employee engagement and retention are growing challenges across the coffee sector. Many roles are narrowly defined, and employees often lack visibility into how their work connects to the wider coffee value chain and its purpose and how they can thrive in the sector. This working group will focus on how the coffee workforce can be strengthened through learning, connection, and shared purpose across the value chain.
By creating opportunities for workers to experience and better understand different parts of the value chain, the work will focus on increasing engagement, professional growth, and a stronger sense of belonging. Approaches and outcomes will be shaped by participating members and designed to be accessible to people across roles, companies, and contexts.
Considering joining the coalition?
We would love to welcome you. Join our open Q&A call on 30 April to learn more and clarify any questions you may have.
