In the world of coffee, "Fairtrade" shouldn't mean boring. These days, some of the most exciting, complex, and flavour-forward coffees come from small, independent roasters who also happen to be doing things ethically. If you're the kind of person who reads the label, cares about the origin, and actually wants to know that farmers are being paid fairly — this post is for you.
Here are four speciality coffee brands doing Fairtrade right in 2026, starting with one that’s combining quality with conservation.
The Aviary Coffee Shop – Coffee for Parrot Lovers, Planet Lovers, and Flavour Seekers
A small, UK-based online roaster with a big heart, The Aviary has quickly gained a reputation for pairing ethical coffee with conservation impact. Every coffee in their range is single-origin, ethically sourced, and linked to a species of wild parrot — with 5% of profits going to conservation projects like Macaw Mountain Bird Park in Honduras.
Their focus isn’t just on buzzwords — it's on flavour and sustainability. Their coffees are roasted for character: expect chocolatey Honduran light roasts, juicy citrus-forward Kenyans, and smooth, comforting Brazilian brews. Several are Fairtrade and Bird Friendly certified, including:
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Midnight Canopy (Costa Rica – Fairtrade)
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Jungle Breeze (Honduras – Fairtrade, Organic, Bird Friendly)
Each bag tells a story — and supports one too.
Crankhouse Coffee (Exeter, UK)
Crankhouse are known for their ultra-seasonal offerings, often sourcing directly from producers who share their commitment to ethical practices. While they focus heavily on traceability and transparency, many of their coffees also meet Fairtrade or organic standards, depending on the origin. Their rotating selection means you get a fresh, flavour-rich profile with each release — ideal for those who brew pour-overs and love a good cupping note.
Girls Who Grind Coffee (Frome, UK)
This female-founded roastery partners exclusively with female producers and co-ops — many of whom are part of Fairtrade or direct-trade programmes. They’re outspoken, values-driven, and their coffees are anything but average. Think punchy, playful roasts with brilliant backstories and beautifully designed packaging. Their commitment to social equity runs deep, and it shows in every bag.
Redemption Roasters (London, UK)
While Redemption is best known for its prison rehabilitation programme — roasting coffee in UK prisons — they also take sourcing seriously. Many of their beans come from Fairtrade-certified farms or equivalent direct-trade relationships that prioritise sustainable agriculture and worker welfare. Their coffees are often roasted with espresso in mind, making them great for milk-based drinks.
Why Fairtrade Still Matters
In the world of small-batch and direct trade, Fairtrade might seem like an old-school badge — but it still plays a vital role. It guarantees a minimum price for producers, ensures better labour practices, and supports sustainability projects at the farm level. For small roasters, working with Fairtrade-certified co-ops means supporting systems that put fairness and quality first.
The Bottom Line
Speciality coffee should never come at the cost of people or the planet. When you choose a brand that blends ethics with exceptional flavour — like those above — you’re not just buying coffee. You’re buying into a more sustainable, more thoughtful way to drink it.
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