Supply Chain and Logistics: How Does Your Coffee Get to Your Cup?

IMM Editor
December 4, 2024
9:12 am
logistics, logistics course, Supply Chain

Have you ever wondered how your coffee reaches your cup? From picking the coffee beans in remote farms to serving freshly brewed coffee on the kitchen table or at a café, a lot has happened to create your cup of coffee. Coffee's journey across the continents is an entire industry in itself, which can be described as a perfect case of logistics and supply chain bringing the simple product to the people. To appreciate this complexity, one must be able to find their way around the knowledge or the system. These are some of the most valued capabilities which the Professional Certificate in Transport and Logistics course from the IMM Institute seeks to provide.

Step-by-Step Journey of Coffee from Bean to Cup

1. Farming

The journey commences on farms which are situated in countries like Southern America, Africa, and Asia amongst others. Coffee plants are tended to with great care since they are very fussy plants and need specific conditions, like the perfect altitude, soil type, and climate, to grow. Coffee farmers encounter many obstacles – climate change or a lack of labour, for example – all which could impact the beginning of the coffee supply chain. When the cherries are ready, they are picked by hand so as to ensure quality. This concludes the first of many tasks in the chain of procurement of coffee beans.

2. Processing and Roasting

Once harvested, coffee beans undergo a process of production that includes drying or washing. This can influence the taste of the beans. The roasting of the coffee beans takes place in ovens where green beans are transformed to the brown beans that have the fragrant and aromatic appeal we have all grown to love. Timing is of great importance in this process, as the beans could no longer be of the same expected quality if delivery is delayed. Every phase needs perfect synchronisation. When it comes to coffee, mainly quality maintenance and proper transit, to sustain the taste and fragrance of the beans, is essential.

3. Packaging and Distribution

The roasted coffee beans are then put into pouches and cans and sent to different capitals, wholesalers and other distribution centres. This step in the supply chain is very much an operations process. Managers of operations are responsible for the type of packaging (what will be allowed for air, sea, road or train) and every other aspect along the delivery system. Depending on its final destination, from commercial services to various retailers including shops and coffee houses, the coffee products will undergo several connectivity and transportation procedures and will eventually arrive at its final destination – the customer.

4. Final Mile to the Customer

The “last mile” refers to the final leg of coffee’s journey—whether to a coffeehouse, grocery store, or directly to a customer’s doorstep. Ensuring the coffee arrives fresh and ready to brew requires careful planning at every step. This phase is often the most expensive, underscoring the importance of efficient logistics and supply chain management.

The Role of Logistics in Coffee’s Journey

Coffee’s journey from remote farms to consumers highlights the complexity of global logistics and supply chain. It requires skilled professionals, precise coordination, and efficient supply chain management.

Global Supply Chain Complexity: Coffee logistics involve navigating freight, customs, and international regulations. These layers demonstrate the challenges of delivering products across borders.
Efficiency and Timing: Freshness is crucial for coffee, making timing essential. Proper transport and storage arrangements minimise waste and ensure quality.
Transport and Storage Solutions: Logistics for coffee combines science and art. Predictive analytics helps professionals deliver the right quantities to the right places at the right time.

How the Course Prepares Students for
Real-World Logistics Challenges

The Professional Certificate in Transport and Logistics is a 10-month logistics course intending to equip the student with the skills necessary to operate in this vibrant professional field through theoretical knowledge and practical application to prepare students for modern supply chain challenges.

Hands-On Learning: Case studies are used to engage students in real-life settings so they can understand logistics and supply chain principles and policies.
Expert Instruction: Students learn from industry professionals who provide important insights and skills in solving practical problems.
Career Opportunities: On successful completion of the course, students will be ready to thrive in their chosen supply chain, logistics or transport careers.

Conclusion

The journey of a coffee bean exemplifies the vital logistics involved in moving commodities from the farm to the cup. For those keen to launch or advance their careers in this industry, the Professional Certificate in Transport and Logistics course opens the door to success. Join the workforce that moves the world-including coffee. Sign up for the Professional Certificate in Transport and Logistics here.

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