The Rising Cost of Coffee: What It Means for Roasters, Cafés, and You

What’s Happening?

The price of green coffee beans has reached record highs over the past year, driven by a mix of climate challenges, supply chain disruptions, rising demand, and geopolitical factors.

• Climate impact: Droughts in Brazil and extreme weather in Vietnam have led to reduced harvests, shrinking global supply.

• Rising demand: Coffee consumption continues to grow worldwide, increasing competition for high-quality beans.

• Supply chain issues: Higher transport costs and delays have made it more expensive to get beans to roasters.

• Geopolitical pressures: Trade disruptions and new EU regulations on sustainable sourcing are adding to costs.

Why Is This Happening?

For years, the cost of producing high-quality, ethically sourced coffee has been rising, but retail prices have remained relatively stable. Roasters and cafés have been absorbing these increasing costs, making it harder for small businesses to remain sustainable. Now, as expenses continue to climb, the industry must adjust to ensure the future of specialty coffee.

What This Means for Roasters

Australian coffee roasters are facing higher costs at every stage of the supply chain. With green bean prices up, shipping costs rising, and a weaker Australian dollar making imports more expensive, maintaining quality while keeping coffee accessible is becoming a delicate balance. Many roasters are exploring direct trade relationships, adjusting blends, and refining their business models to keep offering great coffee without compromising on ethics or quality.

What This Means for Cafés

For cafés, these rising costs translate into tough decisions. With ingredients, wages, rent, and operational expenses all increasing, many are having to adjust pricing. While a small price increase might feel noticeable, it ensures that baristas are paid fairly, spaces remain welcoming, and high-quality coffee remains available.

What This Means for You, the Coffee Drinker

A slight increase of 50 cents, maybe $ 1 to your coffee will help keep cafés open, support the baristas who serve you, and ensure farmers continue growing exceptional coffee. It’s about shifting as a whole industry to ride out this market volatility.

Why Supporting the Price Rise Matters

Choosing to support local cafés and specialty roasters means investing in quality, sustainability, and community. It means valuing the skill and effort that goes into every cup, from farm to cup. By embracing these necessary changes, we help ensure that great coffee remains a part of our daily lives for years to come.

Let’s Keep the Coffee Industry Strong, Together

At Margaret River Roasting Co., we appreciate your support in these changing times. Specialty coffee is worth it, and together, we can continue to enjoy it while ensuring everyone along the supply chain is treated fairly. Next time you grab your coffee, remember — you’re not just buying a drink, you’re supporting an entire industry.

Support your local café. Support great coffee. Let’s keep this industry thriving.