Beans in progress | Stean's Beans

Smallholder farming

Smallholder farmers are usually individuals, families or small communities that cultivate crops and raise livestock on small plots of land. Smallholders typically grow a variety of crops for their own subsistence, but also sell any surplus at local markets. Smallholder farming plays a significant role in global food production, especially in developing countries, where it is often the main source of livelihood for rural communities. Due to limited resources, smallholder farmers typically use more traditional farming methods and also may face challenges such as limited access to credit, technology, and markets.

Lipia

The coffee industry faces challenges from a fragmented supply chain and a disconnect between producers and consumers. Green coffee sourcing, especially from East Africa, must be traceable, transparent, and fair. We developed LIPIA in 2016 to make payments between buyers and farmers traceable using MPESA, an SMS-based system, replacing unsafe cash payments. In 2023, we introduced technology to track coffee lots through the supply chain, ensuring consumers know their coffee's origin and the farmer's payment. With the upcoming 2024 EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), importers must prove their commodities aren't from deforested land. LIPIA helps smallholder farmers comply with EUDR by providing the necessary tracking capabilities.

LIPIA promotes transparency, connects consumers to producers, and supports sustainable practices in developing nations.

Roasting

Roasting coffee is not like roasting a marshmallow; it's a meticulous process akin to a master chef's work, focusing on flavors, aromas, temperature changes, and heat distribution. Like chefs, roasters taste and evaluate their product through trial and error to perfect each roast.

We use the Loring S35 Kestrel, the Rolls Royce of coffee roasters. This automated profile roaster ensures consistent results by using set recipes for each bean. Unlike traditional drum roasters that require more human input and produce more emissions, our Loring fluid bed roasters use recycled hot air, roasting coffee evenly while reducing energy use and emissions by 80%.

Sustainability

Our commitment to a sustainable future for the coffee industry guides our actions. We've identified key issues in the supply chain, worker treatment, and environmental impact that need improvement. We focus on supporting smallholder farmers with technology and assistance through LIPIA to improve working conditions and sustain farming practices. We use the Loring roasting system, which uses 80% less energy and produces 80% fewer emissions than traditional drum roasters. Our coffee is sold to consumers and businesses with sustainable delivery and packaging methods. Consumers receive coffee in recyclable mono-plastic bags, while businesses get reusable, airtight barrels that we regularly swap and sanitize. All deliveries, including coffee, machines, and barista equipment, are made using electric vehicles, reducing emissions and road congestion.

B2B

The businesses that use our coffee are the final and crucial step in the production chain. The farmers, producers, and roasters' efforts are realized when each bean is correctly ground and brewed. If the coffee is burned or under-extracted, the entire process is wasted. Good coffee deserves to meet its full potential, requiring proper machinery and skilled baristas.

We not only know coffee beans but also the machinery and skills needed. We provide expert advice on necessary equipment and help obtain it at the best price. We also offer rentals for those unsure about purchasing. Additionally, our coffee includes barista training workshops to ensure your staff can deliver the best possible cup to your customers.

Welcome to Stean’s Beans

Where our passion for specialty coffee meets a commitment for change

Proudly East-African

What we offer

Shop All

Follow the Aroma

Where to find us

Toastable, Amsterdam

Many companies say they have a corporate mission but Stean really is on a mission. The way he set up the structure of his organisation is inspiring. You won’t find more transparent business elsewhere. Coffee and service are both top quality. When we heard him talking about his coffee we immediately knew we wanted to be part of it.

BBROOD, Amsterdam

Stean’s Beans excels beyond offering delicious coffee; it’s woven into our fabric with Stean’s commitment and expertise. Our firsthand experience with Rwandan farmers and sustainability practices enriched our partnership. Stean’s barista training in the Netherlands and East Africa underscores their unparalleled support. Steans Beans is unmatched in social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

Jamie H.

Switching to Stean’s Beans for our office coffee has been a game-changer. The rich, bold flavors have made our morning routine something to look forward to. It’s not just coffee; it’s an experience. Plus, knowing it’s sustainably sourced makes it taste even better.

Taylor, Coffee Blogger

As a coffee aficionado, I’ve tried numerous brands over the years, but none have captured my palate like Stean’s Beans. Their attention to detail in sourcing and roasting beans is evident in every sip. The aromatic, fruity notes in their blend are a testament to their superior process.

Sam T.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting a café serving Stean’s Beans, and I was blown away by the quality of their coffee. It’s not just the freshness; there’s a depth of flavor there that I haven’t found anywhere else. Knowing their commitment to ethical practices makes my morning cup all the more enjoyable.

Wholesale

Workshops

Mission

Blog