In August 2025, Roast Magazine explored the benefits and challenges of cooperative coffee buying, examining how independent roasters can work together to source green coffee, share resources, and build stronger relationships with producer cooperatives. The article highlights Cooperative Coffees, a North American importing cooperative, and Roasters United, its European counterpart, as examples of collective purchasing models built around shared values and democratic decision-making.

The coverage examines the practical realities of cooperative importing, including financing, logistics, quality standards, and long-term purchasing commitments. It also highlights how collective buying can support farmer-led projects and create more stable relationships between roasters and producers. These principles closely align with Higher Grounds’ commitment to equitable trade, lasting producer partnerships, and using coffee as a vehicle for positive change.