Fort Worth-based Farmer Brothers Coffee is making waves in the specialty coffee market with the launch of its innovative brand, Sum>One Coffee Roasters. Designed to cater to a wide array of coffee preferences, this new line promises to redefine the B2B coffee experience.

Transforming Business Coffee: A New Era of Flavor and Sustainability

Pioneering a Unique Coffee Experience

The introduction of Sum>One Coffee Roasters marks a significant milestone for Farmer Brothers Coffee. This venture into the specialty coffee sector aims to offer an unparalleled range of flavors that cater to diverse palates. With eight distinct blends, each named after evocative themes like Open Mic, Whisper, and Velvet Threads, Sum>One ensures there's something for everyone. The company’s President and CEO, John Moore, expressed his enthusiasm about this expansion, highlighting the versatility of their offerings. "Our mission is to provide a tailored coffee experience that resonates with customers at every level," Moore stated.Farmer Brothers has meticulously crafted these blends to reflect varying roast profiles, from light and delicate to dark and robust. Each blend represents a unique story, drawing inspiration from the origins of the beans and the cultural significance of coffee. For instance, the Deep Thoughts blend invites contemplation with its rich, full-bodied flavor, while the Group Chat blend fosters lively conversations with its vibrant notes. This diversity not only caters to individual tastes but also enhances the overall coffee-drinking experience for businesses and consumers alike.

Commitment to Direct Trade Relationships

A cornerstone of Sum>One's ethos is its dedication to direct trade partnerships with coffee producers. These collaborations are built on mutual respect and transparency, ensuring fair compensation for farmers and superior quality for consumers. By bypassing intermediaries, Farmer Brothers can guarantee that the coffees featured in Sum>One are ethically sourced and of the highest standard.Direct trade relationships allow for a deeper connection between the brand and the origin of the beans. For example, the Kochere blend originates from Ethiopia, known for its exceptional coffee-growing conditions. Through direct trade, Farmer Brothers can work closely with local farmers to cultivate beans that embody the essence of their region. This approach not only supports sustainable farming practices but also promotes economic stability within coffee-producing communities. Additionally, it provides customers with a more authentic and meaningful coffee experience, knowing that their purchase contributes positively to the livelihoods of those who grow the beans.

Expanding Market Reach through Strategic Integration

Sum>One Coffee Roasters will primarily target Farmer Brothers' extensive B2B customer base, which spans over 30,000 U.S. businesses. This strategic move leverages the company's established network to introduce specialty coffee options to a broader audience. While the focus remains on business clients, Sum>One products will also be available for direct purchase via a dedicated website, catering to individual enthusiasts seeking premium coffee experiences.The integration of Sum>One into Farmer Brothers' operations underscores the company's commitment to innovation and growth. In recent years, Farmer Brothers has undergone several transformations, including the sale of its direct-store-delivery business to TreeHouse Foods for $100 million in 2023. This divestiture allowed the company to streamline its operations and concentrate on core competencies, such as developing high-quality coffee brands. The launch of Sum>One follows these strategic moves, positioning Farmer Brothers as a leader in both traditional and specialty coffee markets.

Leadership Driving Success

The success of Sum>One Coffee Roasters is underpinned by the expertise of Farmer Brothers' leadership team. CEO John Moore, along with Vice President of Coffee Operations Matthew Swenson, brings extensive industry knowledge and a passion for coffee excellence. Their combined experience has been instrumental in shaping the vision and execution of the Sum>One brand.Moore's tenure at Farmer Brothers has seen the company navigate through various challenges and opportunities, always prioritizing innovation and customer satisfaction. Swenson's background in coffee operations adds a layer of technical proficiency, ensuring that every aspect of Sum>One's production meets rigorous standards. Together, they have cultivated a culture of excellence that permeates all facets of the business. This leadership synergy is evident in the meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier coffee products.

A Legacy of Coffee Excellence

Founded over a century ago by Roy Farmer, Farmer Brothers has a storied history rooted in supplying high-quality coffee to restaurants and businesses. Based in Fort Worth, Texas, the company has evolved significantly since its inception, adapting to changing market demands while maintaining its core values. Today, Farmer Brothers owns several renowned coffee and tea brands, including Boyd's Coffee Company and West Coast Coffee Company.The launch of Sum>One Coffee Roasters is a testament to the company's enduring legacy and its ability to innovate within the coffee industry. As Farmer Brothers continues to expand its portfolio, it remains committed to upholding the traditions that have made it a trusted name in the business-to-business coffee sector. With fiscal Q1 2025 net sales reaching $85.1 million, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends and further solidify its presence in the specialty coffee market.