Almacafé: Brewing Growth Through Innovation and Roasted Coffee
## Riding the Wave of Colombian Coffee Success
Almacafé, a company under the National Federation of Coffee Growers, is experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by the current boom in Colombia’s coffee industry. Driven by record revenue and profits, Almacafé is now spearheading innovative initiatives to further boost the sector, with a particular emphasis on expanding the market for Colombian “cafe de origen” (origin roasted coffee).
Responding to this positive momentum, Iván Andrés Galindo, General Manager of Almacafé, outlines ambitious plans for the company’s future.
“We are working to transform into a company that contributes significantly to the institutionality”, Galindo explains, outlining Almacafé’s evolution beyond traditional warehousing and logistics roles.
This year, the company has achieved unprecedented results, projecting to exceed $130 billion Colombian pesos in revenue, a 30% increase compared to recent years. Almacafé’s net profit before taxes is also expected to hit a historic high of $28.5 billion.
“These resources are being reinvested into fertilization programs,” Galindo clarifies, highlighting Almacafé’s commitment to supporting coffee growers and ensuring sustainable productivity.
## From Cherry to Cup: Almacafé’s Strategic Diversification
Almacafé is embracing innovation across its operations, expanding its reach throughout the coffee value chain.
“We’ve been focusing on circular-economy initiatives, such as purchasing cherry coffee and integrating waste-reduction strategies,” Galindo shares, pointing to sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the company.
Optimization is key, with Almacafé streamlining its threshing and transportation processes. “We’re abandoning traditional bulk bags and transitioning to ‘big packs,’ large one-ton bags moved with forklifts, which increases efficiency and reduces reliance on manual labor,” he explains.
A key component of Almacafé’s strategy is the creation of regional experience centers. The inaugural center in Neiva has already opened its doors, and five more are planned for the first half of 2025, ensuring nationwide accessibility.
But the company’s vision extends beyond Colombian borders. Its cutting-edge logistics platform, focusing on distributing roasted Colombian coffee within the United States, guarantees delivery in under 72 hours.
“We’re collaborating with private brands making waves in the origin segment,” Galindo reveals. “Buendía is a prime example, launching direct-to-consumer sales via Amazon with us. We handle the roasting, transformation, experience centers, and logistics, while they focus on building their brand presence.”
## Investing in Colombian Coffee’s Future
Almacafé is also investing in a revolving fertilization fund, aiming to secure consistent yields for coffee growers.
“This fund represents a long-term commitment,” says Galindo. “Reinvesting our profits into fertilization programs ensures sustainable coffee production and strengthens the entire chain.”
While Almacafé is leading this initiative, Galindo acknowledges the crucial role of government support.
“We anticipate continued backing from the Fund for Access to Agricultural Inputs (Faia),” he explains. “Ensuring ample access to fertilizer for our coffee growers is paramount to maintaining productivity levels.”
## Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Despite these positive developments, shipping bottlenecks remain a challenge, particularly in Cartagena.
“We have sufficient warehouse capacity, but port management presents obstacles,” Galindo admits.
Looking towards 2025,Almacafé is committed to further enhancing cost-efficiency across its logistics network.
“We aim to minimize transportation expenses by introducing controlled-environment silos,” Galindo details
What strategies is Almacafé implementing to achieve its goal of becoming a true pillar of the Colombian coffee industry?
(Host) Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the exciting world of Colombian coffee with Iván Andrés Galindo, General Manager of Almacafé. Iván, thank you for joining us.
(Iván) It’s a pleasure to be here.
(Host) Almacafé is experiencing a period of remarkable growth, exceeding $130 billion Colombian pesos in revenue this year. What’s driving this success?
(Iván) Certainly, the overall boom in the Colombian coffee industry is providing a strong tailwind. But Almacafé is actively contributing to its own success through strategic diversification and innovation. We’re moving beyond traditional warehousing and logistics to encompass a wider portion of the coffee value chain.
(Host) You mentioned innovation. Can you elaborate on some of the initiatives Almacafé is spearheading?
(Iván) Absolutely. We’re focusing on several key areas. Firstly, we’re embracing circular-economy principles by purchasing cherry coffee and implementing waste reduction strategies. Secondly, we’re streamlining our operations. For example, we’re shifting away from traditional bulk bags to larger “big packs” for more efficient transportation and reduced reliance on manual labor. we’re creating regional experience centers where consumers can learn about and appreciate Colombian coffee culture. The first center is already operational in Neiva.
(Host) Your company’s commitment to sustainability is impressive. How does that manifest itself in your daily operations?
(Iván) Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us; it’s deeply ingrained in our values. We’re reinvesting a significant portion of our profits – $28.5 billion Colombian pesos this year – into fertilization programs to support coffee growers and ensure a sustainable future for Colombian coffee production.
(Host) This ambitious approach seems to be paying off. What are Almacafé’s future goals?
(Iván) We’re striving to become a true pillar of the Colombian coffee industry. We envision a future where Almacafé plays a key role in promoting “cafe de origen” – origin roasted coffee – and sharing the richness and quality of Colombian coffee with the world.
(Host) Iván Andrés Galindo, thank you for sharing your insights on Almacafé’s remarkable journey. It seems like exciting times are ahead for Colombian coffee, and Almacafé is at the forefront of this exciting wave. [[1](https://www.almacafe.com.co/en/about-us/)]
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