LaReb Cooperative

IN A NUTSHELL

LaReb is a regional network of producers aimed to establish direct relationships with specialty roasters around the world. What drew us to LaReb was their dedication, integrity, and commitment to providing market access for Colombian coffee producers who feel underrepresented in the conventional international coffee trade. Essentially, LaReb has taken proactive control over the processing, distribution, and sales of their coffees, sharing these with both roasters and consumers. Founded in 2017 by Herbert Peñaloza and Ana Mustafá, LaReb operates with the meticulous care and passion of its visionary leaders.

WHO IS ANA MUSTAFÁ?

Ana Mustafá comes from a rich heritage of coffee growers, dating back to the 1930s when her grandfather immigrated to Colombia from Palestine. Inspired by her father's coffee-growing endeavours, Ana felt compelled to continue his legacy. She inherited his farms in La Celia and Pereira and has focused on substantial investments in infrastructure and plant health. Ana currently supplies over half of LaReb's exported coffee. With her extensive knowledge of agriculture and exportation, Ana is well-versed in the intricacies of growing, selling, and trading coffee.

TRANSPARENCY

Ana Mustafá advocates for greater transparency in the coffee industry. She believes it is crucial for everyone involved in the coffee supply chain, from consumers to workers, to understand the origins of their coffee and the distribution of profits within the often overly complex supply chain. Ana emphasises that it is not enough for roasters to simply disclose the prices they pay for their coffee; they must also address the substantial margins earned by intermediaries. She argues for a comprehensive approach to transparency, where the earnings of all supply chain actors are shared. This holistic view of profit distribution can help create more sustainable financial practices for everyone involved.