Fri Sep 20 12:40:13 UTC 2024: ## Coffee Industry News: EUDR Deadline Raises Concerns, Robusta Prices Soar, and Unionization Gains Momentum

**International Coffee Organization (ICO) Head Warns of EUDR Deadline Impossibility**

The ICO’s Vanusia Nogueira has stated that meeting the requirements of the European Union’s deforestation-free supply chain law (EUDR) by the December 31 deadline is “not possible.” The law, which targets large companies, mandates that coffee imports must be sourced sustainably and not linked to deforestation. Numerous stakeholders, including farmers and importers, have voiced concerns about the potential negative impacts on smallholders and called for a delay in implementation.

**Robusta and Arabica Coffee Prices Reach Record Highs**

Global coffee prices for both robusta and arabica beans have soared to record highs. Experts attribute this to increased demand and supply constraints, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and weather events.

**Best of Rwanda Coffee Auction Breaks Records**

The 2024 Best of Rwanda coffee auction, organized by the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), saw the top lot from Nova Coffee Washing Station sell for a record-breaking $32.60 per pound. The total auction value reached $165,544.

**Other News:**

* A jury awarded $4 million in damages to the former owner of Big City Coffee, who alleged she was forced out of her Boise State University location due to a backlash against her display of a “thin blue line” flag.
* Employees at Louisville’s Quills Coffee successfully unionized through 32BJ SEIU after the company voluntarily recognized the union.
* Fairtrade International released a study highlighting the advantages of Fairtrade-certified cooperatives in meeting EUDR compliance requirements.
* The Slow Food Coffee Coalition and Specialty Coffee Association will meet in Italy to further their collaborative efforts.
* Michigan Central Station, a historic landmark in Detroit, is set to open its first food and beverage tenant: Yellow Light Coffee and Donuts.
* Cherry Street Coffee closed its Capitol Hill location amid wage-related disputes between the owner and employees.
* Nguyen Coffee Supply, a New York-based Vietnamese coffee specialist, is expanding its reach by launching its packaged coffees at over 400 Albertsons stores.

**Notable Trends:**

* The high-end coffee market continues to be active, with Angelino’s Coffee making a significant investment in purchasing all 11 top-scoring coffees from the 2024 Cup of Excellence program.
* Roasting equipment manufacturer Mill City Roasters is expanding its operations with a new 40,000-square-foot headquarters in Minneapolis.
* The fair trade movement continues to evolve, with the resignation of Fair Trade USA CEO Paul Rice.
* Sustainability is gaining traction in the coffee industry, exemplified by Coffeewomple’s commitment to environmentally conscious practices.

This week’s news highlights the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing the coffee industry, from regulatory hurdles to market volatility and the growing movement toward sustainability and fair labor practices.

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