​Episode 28 - A Journey Through Speciality Coffee with Stephen Hurst

Coffee lovers, business owners, and industry enthusiasts—prepare to be captivated by the latest Ceres Podcast episode featuring Stephen Hurst, affectionately known as “The Coffee Hunter.” From his beginnings on the commodity desks at Goldman Sachs to pioneering the speciality coffee movement in Europe, Stephen’s story is as rich and complex as the beans he trades. This episode offers a deep dive into the world of coffee, exploring its production, challenges, and future with a level of expertise that only decades of hands-on experience can bring.

Host Stelios sets the tone with an engaging introduction, diving straight into the heart of Stephen’s journey. From selling commodity coffee to Nestlé and other industry giants to founding Mercanta Coffee, Stephen paints a vivid picture of how speciality coffee has evolved from a niche to a global phenomenon. His insights into the industry’s transition—marked by a growing demand for differentiated, ethically sourced beans—offer a masterclass for anyone curious about the intersection of commerce, culture, and sustainability.

One standout moment comes when Stephen recounts the early days of Mercanta when sceptics laughed at the idea of paying a premium for higher-quality coffee. He reveals how persistence and a vision for the future turned what seemed like a pipe dream into a thriving global business. With offices in over seven countries and sales in 43, Mercanta is a testament to how a focused niche strategy can yield international success.

The podcast also touches on critical global issues, such as fair trade’s impact on coffee production and the ethical considerations of sourcing beans. Stephen doesn’t shy away from the tough questions, offering a balanced critique of fair trade practices. He argues that while well-intentioned, these systems can sometimes perpetuate overproduction and stifle quality innovation. Instead, Mercanta ensures producers receive fair compensation by directly linking payments to quality—a model that benefits both growers and consumers.

For small business owners and food industry professionals, Stephen’s anecdotes about navigating challenges, from financing to hiring, are particularly compelling. His recounting the mistakes he made in Mercanta’s early days—including a partnership misstep and underestimating the cost of trade financing—is a relatable reminder that even seasoned entrepreneurs face setbacks. Yet, his ability to pivot and persevere offers valuable lessons on resilience and strategic thinking.

Stephen’s passion for coffee shines brightest in his discussions about the nuances of taste and preparation. He explains how home grinding and proper storage can revolutionize your coffee experience, a simple yet impactful tip for listeners of all backgrounds. And if coffee weren’t enough, Stephen’s love of whisky adds a delightful twist with recommendations that might inspire you to expand your palate beyond the morning cup.

As the episode draws to a close, Stelios and Stephen reflect on the future of coffee, from climate challenges to evolving consumer preferences. The conversation is as thought-provoking as it is inspiring, offering insights that transcend the coffee industry to touch on broader themes of sustainability, ethics, and innovation.

Whether you’re a café owner seeking to elevate your offerings, a foodie passionate about premium products, or a curious listener, this episode is a must-have. The Ceres Podcast consistently delivers valuable content, but this instalment sets a new benchmark for depth and engagement.

Don’t miss learning from one of the industry’s most respected voices. Tune in to the Ceres Podcast to hear Stephen Hurst’s remarkable story, and subscribe for more episodes filled with insights to inspire and inform your journey. Coffee may be the starting point, but the wisdom shared here is universal.