What is Higher Grounds Trading Co.?
Higher Grounds Trading Co. is a Michigan-based roaster that’s all about fair trade, organic, and sustainable coffee. This isn’t just any coffee company — it’s a project rooted deeply in agricultural processing with a strong human-centric approach. From the farmers growing the beans to the roasters crafting the perfect roast, every step matters here. They believe that true sustainability means respecting people at every touchpoint — farmers, co-ops, roasters, buyers, baristas, and consumers alike. It’s coffee with a conscience, brewed with purpose and passion.
Main Benefits of Higher Grounds Trading Co.
Here’s what makes this project stand out:
- B Corp score of 84 — a testament to its commitment to social and environmental performance.
- Offers a variety of organic coffee options including Best Sellers, Apex Series, Signature Blends, Single Origin, Espresso, and Decaf & Low Caf.
- Supports fair trade practices ensuring farmers and co-ops receive fair compensation.
- “Coffees For Change” blend donates a portion of every sale to impactful charities.
- Provides educational resources through The Learning Lab — practical training on espresso, milk science, manual brew methods, and more.
- Operates a coffee bar and roastery open seven days a week, offering indoor, patio, and takeaway service.
Exploring the Coffee Collections
The coffee lineup is seriously impressive. Whether you’re into rich, dark roasts or lighter, nuanced flavors, there’s something for everyone. The Best Sellers include favorites like Highland Humanity, Funky Mamacita, and Justice — all organic and crafted with care. The Apex Series and Signature Blends offer unique profiles, while the Single Origin coffees highlight distinct regions and farmers. And for those who love a good espresso or need a decaf option, they’ve got you covered. Plus, the Coffees For Change blend? That’s coffee with a cause — every cup helps support meaningful charity work.
Learning and Growing with The Learning Lab
Higher Grounds Trading Co. isn’t just about selling coffee; it’s about sharing knowledge. The Learning Lab is a practical training hub designed for cafés and teams. It covers everything from espresso and milk science to manual brew methods, quality control, workflow optimization, and equipment care. This hands-on approach helps elevate coffee culture and ensures that baristas and teams can deliver the best experience possible. It’s education that’s as rich as the coffee itself.
The Story Behind the Beans
True sustainability, according to Higher Grounds Trading Co., is about more than just organic farming or eco-friendly packaging. It’s about people — respecting human life and dignity at every stage of the supply chain. This means working closely with farmers and co-ops, supporting fair trade, and advocating for high standards not just in coffee quality but in human well-being. It’s a story of connection, care, and commitment that goes beyond the cup.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 1: No Poverty — supporting fair trade to improve farmers’ livelihoods.
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger — promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — organic and sustainable coffee production.
- SDG 13: Climate Action — reducing environmental impact through sustainable farming and roasting.
- SDG 15: Life on Land — supporting biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.
Visiting the Coffee Bar & Roastery
For those in Michigan or passing through, the coffee bar and roastery is open daily from 8 AM to 3 PM. Whether you want to sip your favorite brew indoors, enjoy the fresh air on the patio, or grab a quick takeaway, the space welcomes coffee lovers with open arms. It’s a place where community meets craft, and every cup tells a story — from farmer to roaster to you. Holidays might tweak the hours a bit, but the passion for great coffee stays constant.
