Eight years with Takesi
Each year, we take time to reflect on the relationships we’ve built with the farmers who pour their passion and expertise into every crop. This year, we’re celebrating eight years working with Takesi, a remarkable farm nestled high in the Sud Yungas region of Bolivia.
Takesi’s Gesha variety has long been a favorite, representing the finest qualities of speciality coffee. The farm’s unique combination of nutrient-rich and humus-rich volcanic soil and high altitudes—reaching up to 2,300 meters—creates the ideal conditions for growing truly exceptional coffee. This environment, along with the dedication of owner Mariana and her team, has made Takesi a standout in the coffee world.
In 2024, our partnership with Takesi became even more meaningful. Mariana joined us at the World of Coffee event in Copenhagen, where we had the privilege of hosting her. And during our annual visit to Bolivia, we joined in a heartfelt celebration for Mariana’s birthday, a touching moment that reminded us of the close bonds and shared purpose that fuel this work. These relationships are what make specialty coffee so special.
Overcoming Setbacks Together
But this year hasn’t been without challenges. During our visit, we learned of a significant issue affecting Takesi’s coffee production. Due to an unexpected planting mistake, some of their high-yield coffee plants are struggling, with many now dying after only three years. This setback is expected to reduce their yield by as much as 70%—a daunting challenge for any farm.
Because we’ve worked together for many years, we are committed to supporting Takesi through this difficult period. Our long-term partnership means more than just purchasing coffee; it’s a shared responsibility to help one another through ups and downs. This support twill allow Mariana and her team to plan for the future with greater stability, helping them recover and continue producing the quality coffee we all cherish.
Supporting the Local Community
Through the last years, Mariana has started using her knowledge and resources to work with small holders in her local community. Supporting and guiding them to both increase their yields, their quality, and getting market access to roasters willing to pay more for the high quality of their coffee. Even in difficult years like this Mariana stays determined to help the local community, which to us demonstrates so clearly how, when paid to the right people, Quality Bonuses does not only benefit the individual farmer but can also create positive ripple effects in the local communities where coffee is grown
A Relationship That Stands the Test of Time the Local Community
Moments like these remind us why we choose to foster long-term partnerships. At Takesi, every person contributes to the farm’s success, and that sense of community is evident in each cup. Through the highs and lows, we remain dedicated to supporting Takesi and ensuring that their remarkable coffee, including this year’s new Gesha harvest, reaches coffee lovers around the world.
As we share this year’s harvest, we’re also sharing the story of resilience and mutual commitment that makes Takesi’s coffee so meaningful. Here’s to eight years with Takesi—and to many more years of growth, support, and exceptional coffee ahead.
