PARTNERSHIPS

We can only deliver Sustainable Future 2030 with the support of our global partners. The challenges facing our industry affect us all. That is why Finlays is committed to working closely and collaboratively with our partners and suppliers to create a more sustainable future.

This includes utilizing our memberships of the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) and Sedex, and being active on key industry bodies. For example, Finlays sits on the Board of the UK Tea & Infusions Association, the Tea Association of the USA, and the British Coffee Association, and we are members of the USA National Coffee Association. We also engage and collaborate with certification bodies such as Rainforest Alliance and Fairtrade.

SPOTLIGHT ON
WORLD COFFEE RESEARCH

Finlays is excited to have joined World Coffee Research (WCR), an industry-driven agricultural research organization. WCR plays a pivotal role in the global coffee industry by conducting research and development to ensure the sustainability and resilience of coffee production. Established as a non-profit collaborative research organization, it brings together stakeholders from across the coffee supply chain, including farmers, industry professionals, and scientists, to address the challenges facing coffee cultivation.

Its primary objectives include the development of new coffee varieties with enhanced resistance to diseases and pests, improved adaptability to climate change, and superior cup quality. By investing in genetic diversity and breeding programs, WCR aims to create coffee plants that can thrive in diverse environments, ensuring the longevity of coffee farming amid evolving climate conditions.

The importance of WCR lies in its potential to safeguard the livelihoods of millions of coffee farmers worldwide. By advancing agricultural practices and promoting sustainable farming methods, WCR contributes to increased yields, higher quality coffee, and improved incomes for farmers. Additionally, the organization fosters knowledge-sharing and collaboration, creating a global network that accelerates the adoption of innovative practices throughout the coffee industry.

The challenges facing coffee production are multifaceted and complex, but innovation can create new solutions. Through investment in World Coffee Research, Finlays unleashes the power of plant varieties to urgently secure a diverse and sustainable supply of quality coffee today and for generations to come.

Coffee agricultural innovation ensures farmers have access to climate-resilient varieties for decades to come. Through shared investment with WCR member companies, Finlays is ensuring that coffee remains a strong business opportunity for farmers around the world."

Dr. Jennifer “Vern” Long, Chief Executive Officer, World Coffee Research

SWIRE THRIVE

Finlays is a wholly owned subsidiary of John Swire & Sons Limited (Swire).

There is a Group-level commitment at Swire on key sustainability issues delivered through the SwireTHRIVE strategy. At Finlays, this is embedded through our Sustainable Future 2030 strategy.

SwireTHRIVE focuses on five key areas that are highly material across the Group:

Climate: Decarbonize our business and build climate resilience
People: Foster a company culture that is accessible, inclusive, and safe
Water: Use and manage water responsibly
Communities: Position our community initiatives as part of our core business value
Waste: Turn today’s waste into tomorrow’s resource

Swire’s Sustainable Development Committee has set up a sustainable development fund, which operating companies can apply to for financial support for sustainability initiatives.