Looking for "slightly larger" lots of coffee

[PeteF]

Gday guys, not sure where to post this so here is probably as good as any. I have a friend in Asia who is roasting commercially but is having trouble sourcing beans. Unfortunately its the same old story that nobody want to deal in "small" lots. He can get basic Brazils etc etc but is now trying to find sources of "highlight" beans. Hes looking at around 300kg per order. Totally outside my expertise so hoping somebody here could point me in the right direction so I can pass it on.

Cheers,
Pete

[lynxsyth]

Re: Looking for "slightly larger" lots of coffee

i am not 100% sure but shouldnt you contact a asian importer and buy small lots with that person ? maybe contact some prominent small roaster in china and ask what broker they use ?

[PeteF]

Re: Looking for "slightly larger" lots of coffee

Unfortunately its the same old story that nobody want to deal in "small" lots.

[beanflying]

Re: Looking for "slightly larger" lots of coffee

Hi Pete,

this was posted on another thread by a commercial roaster?

Depends on freight, volume and most importantly the quality of the beans your buying in. Obviously estate coffees and higher grades are going to attract a premium.

$5-$10 a kilo green would be a better gauge when buying in bulk. Unaware of situation regarding freight to WA but some green suppliers will supply FIS (free into store) when buying a pallet.

Some green bean suppliers in Australia are:

ARC Coffee
Coficom
H.A. Bennett & Sons
Coffee & Nut

Would suggest doing exhaustive research before placing your first orders. Dont be shy about asking for samples and asking questions.

Things to ask include: Processing method, source/estate information, cupping notes, grade & size and age and year of crop to name a few. If they dont have this information then either consider buying elsewhere or make them work for your business.

The other thing to consider will be any customs issues importing beans from Oz. I know at least a couple of the names above have websites so your friend can look up what they have to offer.

[PeteF]

Re: Looking for "slightly larger" lots of coffee

Excellent thanks for that. I initially tried just an Google style search for wholesalers and it was a bit overwhelming.

I had to giggle about the questions, yeah they seem like pretty reasonable things to know. I took up just a few odd beans I could find on my last trip and asked the roaster (here in Sydney) a bit about the bean. Im quite sure he wouldnt read this, nice guy, but when asked how it cupped I was hoping for something a bit better than "err, umm, mild?"