Whenever the University partners with an outside dining supplier, it is a big deal. The University follows an extensive purchasing plan that sets strict rules for who can work with us. For coffee, the general idea is that the company has to offer Fair Trade/Organic bean options and has to have other community-building programs.
So why Peet’s?
The Origins of Peet’s
Peet’s Coffee first opened its doors in 1966 in Berkeley, CA with the aim of introducing high quality coffee to Americans. The chain soon gained a huge following of “Peetniks” transforming the areas around its cafes into “The Gourmet Ghetto”. Ultimately, the tradition of small-batch roasted, quality espresso coffee that Peet’s established inspired many other coffee chains, including Starbucks.
Peet’s and Sustainability
In recent years, Peet’s has expanded its commitment to creating communities by supporting sustainability programs. In 2007, Peet’s opened the first LEED Gold Certified roasting facility in America, in which 100% of Peet’s beans are now roasted. Additionally, Peet’s practices Direct Trade sourcing, regularly visiting farmers to inspire a culture of collaboration. The company shares new research in farming technology and offers training in business skills such as accounting and record keeping to its farmers.
Peet’s has become a member of several nationally recognized certifications, such as Fair Trade, USDA Organic, and the Rainforest Alliance. Living up to the strict standards set by these organizations ensures that Peet’s never diverges from its commitment to sustainability.
At the University of Rochester, Peet’s has committed to serving the Las Hermanas blend everyday. Named after a “sisterhood” of 200 female coffee farmers in Jinotega, Nicaragua, the Las Hermanas blend supports the professional growth and empowerment of these women.
So next time you go out to Wegmans Hall on the Engineering Quad and try a cup of Peet’s, be happy in knowing that you’re supporting coffee farmers around the globe and only minimally impacting the Earth. Now all you need is a reusable mug!
Peet’s is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30a.m. – 6:45p.m. and Friday from 7:30a.m. – 1:45p.m.
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Guest Post Written by Jacqueline Ibragimov, Communications Intern (Class of 2018)