The 10,000 cups of coffee that Aurigny serves onboard each and every year now have a more local flavour, after the Airline ditched Nescafe and started working with Guernsey roasters, Bean 14.
Aurigny says the move is another result of the airline’s Customer Experience programme, which has been closely examining feedback to make some positive changes.
It also helps tick the box as part of the airline’s role as a ‘Social and Economic Enabler’ said Aurigny’s Head of Marketing, Sam Talbot.
He said more potential partnerships are planned in the future too, by “examining how it can support local food and drink suppliers more closely”.
“You told us you wanted better coffee on board, and we’ve listened. By sourcing from a local roaster, we can deliver a high-quality experience while also supporting Guernsey’s economy and working people.
Mr Talbot added: “This is just one small step in our wider commitment to supporting local and ethical enterprise within our community.”
Bean14 first started up in 2006 when its founder, Chris Bada, started the small operation from his parents’ basement on a two-kilo roaster named Ivor.
Mr Bada’s operation grew substantially from what was initially a hobby, to upsizing it into a full fledged business, with a move to a greenhouse and the addition of two larger roasters, named Dougal and Kitt, and their own purpose-built roastery in 2017.
On the new partnership Mr Bada said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Aurigny and to see our coffee on board their flights. We really hope travellers will enjoy a taste of home in the skies.”
Accredited as a Fairtrade roaster, Bean14 is also a supporter of the Guernsey Nature Commission.
These local roots, roasts and use of Fairtrade practices potentially played a part, with Aurigny stating: “The States of Guernsey are more widely committed to promoting the use of Fairtrade products across the islands.”
Hannah Davis, Secretary of the Fairtrade Guernsey Steering Group, commented: “We’re delighted to see Aurigny supporting Fairtrade and local business through this partnership with Bean14.
Ms Davis added: “It’s a great way to celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight, bringing ethically sourced, high-quality coffee to those travelling with our national airline, while highlighting the importance of supporting both local producers and farmers in developing countries.”