Higher Grounds Trading Company

Higher Grounds Trading Company is a coffee roaster and retailer based in Traverse City, Michigan. They are deeply committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing, and have a strong focus on fair trade and organic practices. Their coffee is sourced directly from cooperatives of small-scale farmers in various coffee-producing countries, with whom they have established long-term relationships. Higher Grounds prioritizes transparency, publishing contracts with their farmers on their website and donating a portion of their profits to their sister nonprofit, On the Ground, which works to empower coffee farming communities.

In addition to their online store, Higher Grounds operates a coffee bar and roastery in Traverse City, where they offer a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and a free roastery tour and tasting on select Fridays. They also offer a variety of coffee equipment and brewing guides on their website, making them a comprehensive resource for coffee enthusiasts.

Higher Grounds Trading Company offers its employees a range of benefits, including a flexible wellness program, health savings accounts, 401Ks, and paid volunteer hours. These benefits reflect the company's commitment to investing in the health, financial security, and community engagement of its staff.

Higher Grounds Trading Company is a coffee roaster committed to a human-centric approach to sustainability. They believe in sourcing exceptional quality coffee directly from farmers, paying above fair trade prices, and investing in community development through their sister non-profit, On the Ground. Their aim is to create a positive impact on the world by building strong, resilient communities and empowering coffee farmers to thrive while providing coffee lovers with the best cup possible.

Higher Grounds Trading Company cultivates a culture deeply rooted in ethical sourcing and sustainability, promoting a human-centric approach to the coffee industry. They value transparency and direct relationships with farmers, ensuring fair compensation and empowering coffee-growing communities through their sister non-profit, On the Ground. They prioritize environmental responsibility, utilizing eco-friendly practices both in their coffee bar and roastery, and fostering a sense of community among their staff and partners. The company's culture champions ethical business practices, social justice, and environmental stewardship, reflecting a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Higher Grounds Trading Company is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout its entire business model, from sourcing coffee directly from farmers to empowering employees through a flexible wellness program. The company partners with nonprofits like "On the Ground" to advocate for gender and social equity in coffee-growing communities and has invested in projects that improve access to education, healthcare, and safe drinking water for farmers and their families. Higher Grounds' approach goes beyond fair trade practices, aiming to ensure that everyone involved in the coffee supply chain enjoys a fair living wage and has access to opportunities for advancement.