Paramount Coffee Recognized for Ethical Sourcing in Michigan

Paramount Coffee, which has supplied the East Lansing-based franchise since 1999, earned the distinction at the university's third annual sustainability celebration. The award highlights the company’s integration of ethical business practices, specifically its Farm-Direct sourcing model. This program ensures that beans are procured from farms that prioritize environmental stewardship and community development, a strategy that aligns with BIGGBY® COFFEE’s objective to reach 100% direct sourcing by the end of 2028.

Beyond the Notre Dame recognition, Paramount Coffee was named a finalist for the Specialty Coffee Association’s 2026 Sustainability Award. This global honor acknowledges firms that address industry-wide hurdles such as climate change and gender equality through transparent supply chain management. For BIGGBY® COFFEE, the partnership serves as a cornerstone of its OBIIS initiative, which involves personal site visits to validate farming practices and foster long-term relationships with growers. According to Paramount Coffee President Rich Schaafsma, the focus remains on delivering coffee that provides a measurable positive impact on both the environment and the individuals who cultivate the crops.