Farmer Connect taps IBM blockchain tech for coffee tracking app

IBM and Farmer Connect have rocked up at CES 2020 to demo a blockchain-based app that allows consumers to learn about the coffee beans they purchase.

This has been developed with various companies across the global supply chain including Beyers Koffie, The Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC), ITOCHU Corporation, Jacobs Douwe Egberts, The J.M. Smucker Company, Rabobank, RGC Coffee, Volcafe, Sucafina and Yara International.

"The aim is humanising each coffee drinker's relationship with their daily cup," says David Behrends, Founder and President, Farmer Connect. "Consumers now can play an active role in sustainability governance by supporting coffee farmers in developing nations. Through the blockchain and this consumer app, we're creating a virtuous cycle."

The Thank My Farmer app, which is powered by IBM’s blockchain technology, launches to general market in early 2020. Users in the US and Canada will be able to scan QR codes on 1850 brand premium single-origin coffee. European consumers will be able to access it through a new single origin brand, Beyers 1769, roasted at Beyers Koffie.