It’s the Beginning of Everything

Direct trade goes beyond fair trade standards by building direct, long-term relationships with farmers. We bypass traditional commodity markets, paying farmers directly and ensuring they receive fair compensation that truly reflects their work and expertise.

Uganda: Our cacao in Uganda is cultivated by smallholder farmers in the Semuliki Forest, where generations of expertise and a deep passion for the land shine through. Through Latitude Trade Co. (LTC), a vertically integrated certified B Corp founded in 2016, we partner with over 4,664 certified organic smallholder producers. Notably, nearly 50% (2,266) are women and 69% (3,228) are under 35 years old, illustrating a vibrant, youthful, and dynamic farming community.

Ecuador: In Ecuador, our premium cacao is sourced through CECAO—an Organic and Fair Trade-certified exporter that champions sustainable, high-quality production. CECAO collaborates with 10 community-based associations, supporting a network of approximately 1,800 producers. These dedicated farmers follow innovative and eco-friendly practices, ensuring that every bean meets rigorous quality standards while upholding ethical sourcing values.

Our direct trade approach benefits farmers by ensuring they receive premium cash prices at the point-of-sale. In Uganda, Latitude Trade Co. (LTC) empowers over 4,664 certified organic producers—nearly 50% of whom are women and 69% under 35—with sustainable income and modern agricultural support. In Ecuador, CECAO works with 10 community-based associations to support approximately 1,800 producers, providing them with technical assistance and a reliable market that reinforces ethical and sustainable practices.

In Uganda’s Semuliki Forest, farmers blend traditional techniques with modern sustainable practices to preserve the land and maintain quality. They work collectively with LTC to ensure environmentally responsible farming. In Ecuador, the network coordinated by CECAO uses eco-friendly methods, including rigorous fermentation and drying processes and intercropping techniques, to safeguard soil health and enhance the cacao’s flavor profile.

By sourcing directly from dedicated, ethically supported farmers in Uganda and Ecuador, we ensure that every bean is grown under optimal conditions and harvested with care. This direct connection to our sourcing communities not only supports sustainable livelihoods but also delivers rich, authentic flavors in every chocolate bar you enjoy.