Corus grows global coffee and cocoa markets from farmer to consumer

Coffee and cocoa are two of the world's most beloved crops, deeply woven into the fabric of daily life for millions across the globe. Yet, these essential commodities are predominantly produced by smallholder farmers, who face a myriad of challenges, from environmental shocks to market access. For nearly four decades, Corus International and its lead agricultural development organization Lutheran World Relief have been at the forefront of transforming these challenges into opportunities in coffee and cocoa markets around the world. We partner with governments, the private sector, and farmers and leverage innovative technology to pioneer change and sustainable growth in these critical industries. 

Corus prioritizes regenerative agriculture practices to improve quality and enhance sustainability in coffee and cocoa production. These practices focus on restoring soil health, increasing biodiversity, and improving water efficiency. By training farmers in agroforestry techniques, such as intercropping coffee and cocoa plants with shade-providing trees, we help protect crops from climate extremes while boosting yields. Additionally, we promote the use of organic composting and natural pest control methods, reducing reliance on harmful chemicals and preserving ecosystems. By implementing regenerative practices, Corus enhances long-term agricultural productivity, bolsters the resilience of farming communities against environmental challenges, and ensures farmers meet the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) requirements. This compliance enables them to access and thrive in the highly profitable European markets. 

Working closely with governments and industry stakeholders, Corus supports the development of national plans in countries looking to build or revitalize their coffee and cocoa sectors. By focusing on marketing, domestic consumption, and positioning these industries as pathways for job creation, Corus not only enhances farmers' incomes but also contributes to national economic growth. As countries work towards increased national consumption of coffee and cocoa, this creates a ripple effect that strengthens local economies and boosts employment. 

In addition to government planning, sustaining the growth of a country’s cocoa and coffee sectors requires significant investment. Corus plays a crucial role in mobilizing the resources and investments needed to fortify these sectors. By working with diversified partners, such as multi- and bilateral institutions as well as private sector brands like The Hershey Company, we channel financial, technical and network support that bolsters efforts to strengthen all levels of a country’s coffee and cocoa value chains. 

For example, we partnered with Zoto to create the Central America Regional Cocoa Flavor Map, an innovative initiative documenting the distinct flavor profiles of cocoa produced by farmer and cooperative partners we support in El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras. The Cocoa Flavor Map helps cocoa producers better connect with buyers of fine and specialty cocoa, who can quickly identify the sources for the cocoa flavors, profiles and characteristics they are seeking.  

Corus knows that access to information is fundamental for coffee and cocoa farmers’ success. Our custom-developed smartphone apps, Cacao Móvil and Café Móvil, provide farmers immediate access to the agricultural information they need to make decisions about crop management practices and market prices.   

The opportunity in this technology extends to the next generation of coffee and cocoa farmers. We train local workers — often young adults — to collect the agricultural information that powers Cacao Móvil and Café Móvil. The reporting ranges from weather forecasts to soil quality and crop disease updates to market prices. Through this work, they gain the experience and expertise they need to work as agricultural extension professionals, who are a critical partner for farmers, cooperatives, governments — and ultimately the coffee and chocolate companies seeking a quality product.  

Our expertise is built on decades of experience. We are known for raising a country’s profile in the global market, making coffee and cocoa an engine of inclusive economic growth at the national level. Our comprehensive and integrated approach brings together regenerative agriculture, technology and new partnerships to ensure smallholder farmers can compete — and thrive — in a complex global economy.  

Interested in going deeper? Check out Corus organization Lutheran World Relief’s coffee and cocoa portfolio.