Blendly

At Blendly, we believe that innovation not only optimizes existing processes but also unlocks new avenues for value creation. Embracing this evolution is key for organizations aiming to thrive in the dynamic landscape of tomorrow. The fusion of human ingenuity with artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to redefine how we conceptualize, create, and deliver value across the entire business ecosystem.

AI and the Global Workforce: Navigating the Future at Davos

The surge in AI applications and their implications for the workforce is a hot topic at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, this week. Kristalina Georgieva, the head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), warns that nearly 40% of jobs globally could be affected by AI developments. The effects are expected to be particularly acute in advanced economies, where about 60% of positions could see an impact.

Challenges and Readiness: The Deloitte’s AI Institute Survey

A new global survey from Deloitte’s AI Institute shows that top executives are “far from ready” to deal with the implications of generative AI. Reports from Axios highlight the challenges organizations face in preparing for the transformative impacts of AI.

AI’s Dawn in the Coffee Industry: Revolutionizing Quality Assessment

In the sprawling landscapes where coffee cherries ripen under the sun, the livelihoods of countless farmers hinge on the quality assessment of their produce. However, the traditional methods of evaluating coffee quality, often dependent on human-led sensory evaluations, have long been criticized for their inherent subjectivity.

The Subjectivity Conundrum in Coffee Quality Assessment:

Cupping, a revered sensory evaluation method, has been the backbone of determining coffee quality. Yet, it is marred by the subjectivity of human perception. Even with two Q graders evaluating the same coffee, discrepancies in final scores are commonplace. Palate fatigue and individual biases further complicate the process, raising questions about the fairness of a system that directly impacts the income of coffee farmers.

The Role of AI in Achieving Objectivity:

AI offers a transformative solution to the subjectivity conundrum. Machine learning algorithms, when fed vast datasets of sensory information, discern intricate flavor profiles and quality indicators with unparalleled consistency. By eliminating the human factor, AI introduces a level of objectivity previously deemed unattainable. This shift has the potential to revolutionize how coffee quality is assessed, bringing newfound fairness to the evaluation process.

Empowering Coffee Farmers: Fair Compensation and Beyond

In the specialty coffee sector, where price premiums hinge on perceived quality, the stakes are high for farmers. The integration of AI can liberate subjective assessments, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their crops’ true quality. AI-driven evaluations align premium prices with the actual characteristics of the beans, fostering transparency and equitable compensation.

Overcoming Challenges: Ethical AI Implementation:

While the promise of AI in coffee quality assessment is immense, it comes with its own set of challenges. Ensuring ethical AI implementation is paramount. The algorithms must be trained on diverse datasets, avoiding biases that may exist in traditional assessments. Collaborative efforts between technologists, coffee experts, and farmers are essential to creating AI solutions that uphold fairness and integrity.

Empowering Farmers with Data-Driven Insights:

Beyond quality assessment, AI empowers coffee farmers in various aspects of cultivation. From optimizing harvest times based on weather patterns to predicting crop yields, AI provides insights enhancing productivity and sustainability. By leveraging technology, farmers can make informed decisions that positively impact their crops and overall livelihoods.

Nurturing a Sustainable Future for Coffee Farming:

AI not only addresses the immediate challenges of quality assessment but also contributes to the sustainability of coffee farming. By fostering fair compensation and providing data-driven tools, AI becomes a catalyst for long-term resilience in the face of climate change, market fluctuations, and other threats to the coffee industry.

In Conclusion: Brewing a Fairer Future with AI at Blendly.co.uk

As the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, the potential for a fairer future for coffee farmers emerges. AI, with its ability to strip away the subjectivity ingrained in traditional quality assessments, holds the promise of transforming the coffee industry. By ensuring that farmers receive just compensation for the true worth of their crops, AI becomes a beacon of fairness, fostering sustainability, and empowering those whose hands cultivate the beans that bring joy to millions around the globe. At Blendly, the synergy of technology and tradition is brewing a new era for coffee farming—one where the flavors are rich, and the rewards are just.

In a landscape where new markets are flourishing, businesses are exploring innovative avenues to bolster revenue streams. Where the Caffee Culture once created additional footfall for many business models, The Caffee Culture model is now considered to be a pivotal contributor to overall income

Integrating the coffee culture model into an existing business allows businesses to look to grow their sources of revenue. Sectors such as garden centers no longer simply use their cafes as a footfall driver but as a critical part of their income. Existing businesses have their own local and national values and this allows a premium on revenue maximization and customer value.

Tailoring the Blendly Approach:

Blendly’s Market Research and Customer Understanding: Blendly, recognizing the transformative potential of cafes within businesses like garden centers, initiates comprehensive market research. This involves identifying emerging trends, understanding customer preferences, and gauging the competitive landscape. By doing so, Blendly gains insights that guide the customization of its offerings.

Tailored Product and Service Offerings: Blendly crafts a specialized product and service portfolio tailored to the unique needs and preferences of customers in sectors such as garden centers. This extends beyond the ordinary, with exclusive and seasonal offerings designed to complement the ambiance and activities of these specific environments.

Seamless Integration with Partners: Recognizing the collaborative spirit needed for success, Blendly forges strategic partnerships with garden centers and relevant businesses. This integration is seamless, extending beyond the mere placement of a cafe. Joint marketing efforts and promotions are implemented, creating a symbiotic relationship that drives footfall and increases revenue for all parties involved.

Notably, sectors like garden centers are redefining the role of cafes, transforming them from mere footfall drivers into pivotal contributors to overall income. As a business operating in this dynamic environment, Blendly envisions a strategic approach that resonates with evolving trends, placing a premium on revenue maximization and customer value.

Sustainability and Quality: Blendly places a strong emphasis on sustainability, aligning its sourcing, packaging, and operational practices with eco-friendly principles. Simultaneously, the brand maintains an unwavering commitment to high product quality, fostering trust and loyalty among customers who seek premium experiences.

Innovative Marketing and Promotion: Blendly adopts an innovative approach to marketing, leveraging digital platforms and social media to effectively reach its target audience. Creative promotions, loyalty programs, and special events become staples, transforming the cafe experience into a cornerstone of the overall business proposition.

Technology Integration: Investing in cutting-edge technology, Blendly enhances the customer experience through mobile ordering apps, loyalty program apps, and contactless payment options. Data analytics become instrumental in understanding customer behavior and preferences, facilitating personalized marketing and service improvements.

Employee Training and Engagement: Blendly ensures that its cafe staff is not only well-versed in delivering quality products but is also trained to provide exceptional customer service. A positive and engaging work environment is fostered, recognizing that happy employees contribute significantly to an enhanced customer experience.

Community Engagement: Proactively engaging with local communities, Blendly participates in events, sponsorships, and partnerships with local organizations. The cafe becomes more than a place for coffee; it evolves into a community hub, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging repeat business.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Blendly remains agile and adaptable, responding to changing market dynamics by adjusting offerings and strategies based on customer feedback and emerging trends. Regular reassessment of the competitive landscape ensures a sustained competitive edge.

Continuous Improvement: Embracing a culture of continuous improvement, Blendly actively seeks feedback from both customers and employees. This ongoing process identifies areas for enhancement, allowing the brand to regularly review and update its business strategy to stay responsive to market changes.

Conclusion: Blendly’s revolves around the customer, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence. As the coffee industry undergoes transformative shifts in evolving markets, Blendly stands poised to navigate these changes with precision, ensuring the best value and service for its customers. The brand’s three pillars of transparency, treating the customer as an expert, and having solutions available when needed form the cornerstone of a strategy that not only aligns with current trends but also anticipates and embraces the future of the coffee experience.

According to the Economist Across the rich world, Governments are implementing more than ten times as many policies as they were each year in 2010 – 2015 If their Manifestos are anything to Go by, Politicians Plan a lot more in the coming years to achieve dominance in renewable energy, Electric Trasport and Generative AI this is the biggest policy shift in a generation 

This rapid increase in the policy and the speed of implementation is affecting people, and companies, daily and it is happening at a time were the world is still finding its new normal work habits of everyday people to the new global Geo politic

One group that is affected by these changes is small businesses. While large corporations may have the resources and infrastructure to adapt to evolving government policies and regulations, small businesses often face more significant challenges.

In which the low-carbon economy and associated government policies are impacting Innovation and small businesses and in the short term having a negative impact in the short term 

1. Compliance Costs: Small businesses struggle to meet the regulatory requirements associated with the low-carbon economy. Compliance costs, such as investing in cleaner technologies or meeting emissions targets, can strain limited budgets.
2. Market Access: As governments emphasize domestic production and security, small businesses may find it harder to compete in global markets, limiting their growth prospects.
3. Innovation: Smaller enterprises often lack the resources for extensive research and development. The shift away from globalization may reduce opportunities for collaboration and innovation that were more readily available in a globalized world.
4. Resource Availability: The focus on energy, food, and health security may affect the availability and affordability of essential resources for small businesses, impacting their operations.
5. Policy Uncertainty: Frequent policy changes and evolving regulations can create uncertainty for small businesses, making it challenging to plan for the future.

While the shift towards the low-carbon economy is driven by valid concerns about security and sustainability, it’s crucial to strike a balance.  Governments can play a role in supporting small businesses during this transition by providing targeted assistance, fostering innovation ecosystems, and ensuring that policies are adaptable and consistent. Encouraging local solutions while maintaining a global perspective can help harness the advantages of both approaches.

The low-carbon economy and associated government policies are having a significant impact on small businesses. However, amid this transition, it’s essential to find ways to preserve the innovation that globalization brought while addressing pressing issues related to security and sustainability. Small businesses, as the backbone of many economies, should be supported in adapting to this changing landscape. Balancing local and global perspectives is key to navigating this new world effectively

In a strategic maneuver to boost efficiency and harness synergies, Hamburg-based Tchibo, a powerhouse in the European coffee industry, has made a decisive move. The company has chosen to consolidate its UK and Ireland businesses under the esteemed Scottish brand, Matthew Algie & Company Limited. This bold merger includes Tchibo Coffee Services and Capitol Foods, acquired in 2016 and 2018, respectively. The unified entity will now operate under the banner of Matthew Algie.

A Brief Glimpse Into Tchibo:
Tchibo, with a global presence spanning over 60 countries, boasts a diverse portfolio featuring renowned names such as Davidoff Café, Smokin’ Bean, Piacetto, and Caffè Molinari. The company manages 550 branded coffee shops across Germany and an additional 320 in Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Turkey. Despite impressive sales of €3.24 billion ($3.53 billion) in 2022, Tchibo faced challenges, grappling with an annual EBIT loss of €167 million ($182 million) attributed to rising raw material, energy, and freight costs. Responding to these challenges, Tchibo appointed Erik Hofstädter as its new CEO in December 2023.

Is Bigger Better for Customers?
The consolidation of Tchibo’s UK and Ireland businesses under the Matthew Algie brand prompts a crucial question: Is bigger better for customers? In an industry that constantly expands into new markets, this move signifies a strategic effort to grow revenue sources.

Considerations for Local Customers:
While a consolidated brand may seem advantageous, local customers are encouraged to consider the broader global environment and the associated commodities within the industry. Mergers can bring about positive changes, such as expanded product offerings and operational efficiencies. However, potential challenges should be on the radar when considering contracts for machines and supplies.

Potential Changes Customers May Experience:

Reduced Competition:
The consolidation might lead to reduced competition, potentially impacting choices and resulting in higher prices and decreased innovation. The coffee industry is filled with local suppliers offering alternatives tailored to specific markets.

Efficiency Improvements:
On a positive note, operational synergies may lead to streamlined processes, better supply chain management, and potential cost savings. However, larger organizations may struggle to adapt quickly to global consumer demands and ongoing economic changes affecting supply chains.

Loss of Unique Features:
Unique features from individual companies may be discontinued, affecting customers who value specific offerings.

Integration Challenges:
Temporary disruptions in service, changes in customer support processes, and adjustments to ordering systems may occur during the integration process, impacting local customers dependent on locally driven services.

Changes in Branding and Marketing:
Merged companies often undergo rebranding or adjustments to marketing strategies, reflecting changes in product packaging, logos, or promotional activities.

Potential Price Changes:
Depending on market dynamics, pricing structures for products and services may change. The global supply chain for green beans and geopolitical shifts, moving away from globalization to a more decentralized economy, can influence pricing.

Customer Service Changes:
Adjustments to customer service procedures, contact points, and support channels may be part of the integration process.

Higher Prices:
Consolidation can lead to increased market power, potentially resulting in higher prices for products and services.

Job Losses and Employee Morale:
Mergers often involve restructuring and cost-cutting measures, impacting employee morale and, subsequently, customer service.

In Conclusion:
While the consolidation of Tchibo’s UK and Ireland businesses under the Matthew Algie brand presents potential benefits, customers are urged to stay informed about potential changes and actively engage with the evolving business landscape. As the coffee industry undergoes transformative shifts, navigating these changes with a discerning eye will be crucial for customers seeking the best value and service in their coffee experience.

As companies embrace glocal thinking, understanding its implications becomes paramount for both businesses and consumers alike. By recognizing the interplay between global and local dynamics, stakeholders can adapt strategically to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.

In recent times, coffee lovers around the world have been noticing a gradual increase in the price of their favourite beverage. This trend can be attributed to a complex interplay of factors, ranging from agricultural practices to geopolitical tensions. In this blog post, we’ll delve into these reasons, highlighting how they contribute to the rising costs of coffee. Coffee Robusta Price is at a current level of 3.381, up from 3.264 last month and up from 2.291 one year ago. This is a change of 3.59% from last month and 47.57% from one year ago

The Harvest and Market Dynamics

Vietnam, a key player in the robusta coffee market, is seeing a successful harvest season. As the Tet New Year holidays approach, a time marked by increased commercial activity and selling, we can expect some fluctuations in coffee stock availability. However, the overall commercial activity within Vietnam is likely to slow down as we move closer to the holidays.

Brazil’s Coffee Crop and Weather Concerns

Brazil, another major coffee producer, is now focusing on the development of its new crop. The upcoming 2024 harvest is anticipated with great interest, as forecasts and weather conditions will play a significant role in determining the production potential. Brazil’s export performance has shown considerable improvement, which, under normal circumstances, could stabilize prices. However, the weather remains a critical factor that could affect the supply chain and pricing.

Logistics and Geopolitical Tensions

A significant factor contributing to the rise in coffee prices is the current state of global logistics. Major shipping lines are rerouting their vessels via the Cape of Good Hope due to geopolitical tensions and security concerns in the Red Sea and Suez Canal. This rerouting adds to the lead times and costs of moving goods, including coffee. The Suez Canal, facilitating a third of global container ship cargo, plays a crucial role in the timely and cost-effective transportation of coffee. Disruptions here could have ripple effects, potentially leading to global inflation.

Certified Coffee Stocks and Market Sentiments

The stability of certified washed Arabica coffee stocks and the distribution of these stocks between Europe and the USA reflect a tightly controlled supply chain. However, any fluctuation in these stocks or in the logistics of transporting coffee can have immediate effects on prices.

The Bottom Line

The rise in coffee prices is not attributed to a single cause but is the result of a combination of agricultural, logistical, and geopolitical factors. From Vietnam’s harvest dynamics to Brazil’s weather conditions and the impact of global shipping routes, each element plays a part in shaping the market. As we continue to navigate through these complex dynamics, one thing remains clear: the world of coffee is as interconnected as it is diverse, with each change in the supply chain having a direct impact on coffee lovers worldwide.

In summary, while coffee enthusiasts might have to pay a bit more for their beloved brew, understanding the reasons behind these price hikes can help us appreciate the global journey coffee takes to reach our cups.

The Recent announcement of Hamburg-based Tchibo purchased Matthew Algie in 2016 and Capitol Foods in 2018 – since then, we have all been operating under their names. Recognizing the strong values and reputation for quality and sustainable practices, parent company Tchibo has taken the bold decision to consolidate its UK and Ireland businesses under the Scottish brand’s name, Matthew Algie & Company Limited.

This strategic merger will see Tchibo Coffee Services and Dublin-based Capitol Foods trade under the Matthew Algie brand – a move intended to generate synergies and efficiencies across a consolidated coffee, beverages, food, and equipment portfolio.

Hamburg-based Tchibo acquired Matthew Algie in 2016 and Capitol Foods in 2018, with each continuing to operate under its name. Tchibo is one of Europe’s largest coffee groups, operating in more than 60 countries with a portfolio of packaged coffee brands including Davidoff Café, Smokin’ Bean, Piacetto, and Caffè Molinari.

Tchibo also operates a vast wholesale business alongside 550 branded coffee shops across Germany and a further 320 across Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Turkey.

Posting sales of €3.24bn ($3.53bn) in 2022, Tchibo incurred an annual EBIT loss of €167m ($182m amid increased raw material, energy, and freight costs. In December 2023 Tchibo appointed Erik Hofstädter as its new CEO.

It is understood that Hamburg-based Tchibo according to the World Coffee portal Posting sales of €3.24bn ($3.53bn) in 2022, Tchibo incurred an annual EBIT loss of €167m ($182m amid increased raw material, energy, and freight costs. In December 2023 Tchibo appointed Erik Hofstädter as its new CEO.

Is bigger better for customers It is understood Coffee continues to be one of the fastest-moving sectors, and the announcement confirms that they are looking to take operations in the new markets that emerge as businesses look to grow their sources of revenue.

Sectors such as garden centers no longer simply use their cafes as a footfall driver but as a critical part of their income. However, in general, when companies in the coffee service industry or any industry merge, customers may experience various changes.

What Should customers consider when they go to replace their contract for machines and supplies in the light of a global economy that is decentralizing in favor of more flexible suppliers that are local to their markets? 

Mergers often lead to the pooling of resources, technologies, and expertise. Customers may appear on the face of it to benefit from an expanded range of products and services, combining the strengths of both companies.

Expanded Product and Service Offering size can limit innovation and can go hand in hand in A reduction in the number of competing companies may result in decreased incentives for innovation. With fewer companies striving to outdo each other, there may be less pressure to develop new and improved products or services. This lack of innovation can negatively impact the variety and quality of offerings available to customers.

Reduced Competition: One of the main concerns with mergers is that they can lead to a decrease in competition. When two companies merge, they may eliminate a competitor from the market, reducing choices for customers. This lack of competition could result in higher prices, decreased product or service quality, and less incentive for innovation.

Efficiency Improvements: Mergers can result in operational synergies and efficiency improvements. This might lead to more streamlined processes, better supply chain management, and potentially cost savings that could be passed on to customers.

Loss of Unique Features: If the merging companies have distinct and unique features or offerings, the merger might result in the discontinuation of one company’s products or services. Customers who value specific features from each company may be disappointed if those features are no longer available.

Integration Challenges: The integration of the companies can also bring challenges. Customers might experience temporary disruptions in service, changes in customer support processes, or adjustments to ordering systems as the companies work to align their operations.

Changes in Branding and Marketing: Merged companies may decide to rebrand or adjust their marketing strategies. Customers might see changes in product packaging, logos, or promotional activities as the companies integrate their identities.

Potential Price Changes: Depending on the nature of the merger and the market dynamics, there might be implications for pricing. Customers should be attentive to any announcements or changes in pricing structures for the products and services they regularly use. Higher Prices: Mergers can lead to increased market power for the newly formed company, allowing them to set higher prices for their products or services. With fewer alternatives available due to reduced competition, customers may end up paying more for the same goods or services.

Customer Service Changes: There could be adjustments to customer service procedures and policies. New contact points, revised customer support channels, or changes in the handling of customer inquiries may occur. Mergers often involve the integration of different systems, processes, and cultures. This integration can lead to operational challenges and disruptions in customer service. Customers may experience issues such as longer wait times, confusion about products or services, and changes in customer support quality.

Cultural Differences: Merging companies may have different corporate cultures, and if not managed effectively, this can result in a negative impact on customer experience. Changes in the way business is conducted, communication styles, or overall company values can be unsettling for customers accustomed to a certain culture.  Job Losses and Employee Morale: Mergers often lead to restructuring and cost-cutting measures, including layoffs. This can result in a loss of expertise and experience among employees, potentially affecting the quality of products or services. Additionally, if employees are dissatisfied or demoralized due to job uncertainty or changes in work conditions, it can impact their ability to provide good customer service.

Blendly.co.uk, as a brand with a focus on coffee blending and customization, can play a valuable role in helping customers navigate the changes resulting from the recent merger involving Tchibo, Matthew Algie, and Capitol Foods. Here are ways Blendly can assist customers during this transition acting as a building block to build value in local markets at scale – and integrating in new relationships with customers –

In recent years, the global conversation has been shifting from the advantages of globalization to the merits of a more decentralized world. Governments around the globe are looking inward, focusing on protectionism, job security, and the safeguarding of domestic production. High subsidies are being allocated, and growing threats to national security have prompted a reevaluation of priorities. Key areas such as energy, food, and health security are gaining prominence, along with the everyday effects on people and businesses, notably the cost of living crisis.

This evolving worldview is driving policy changes, particularly in the realm of the low-carbon economy. The transition towards a low-carbon economy is bringing about changes for individuals and companies at an ever-increasing pace. Simultaneously, we’re witnessing a surge in government regulations aimed at facilitating the day-to-day management of this transformative process.

According to the Economist Across the rich world, Governments are

implementing more than ten times as many policies as they were each year in 2010 – 2015 If their Manifestos are anything to Go by, Politicians Plan a lot more in the coming years to achieve dominance in renewable energy, Electric Trasport and Generative AI this is the biggest policy shift in a generation 

However, as we navigate this transition, it’s essential to recognize that one of the effects of globalization is its ability to foster innovation to address global challenges. With the move towards decentralization, there is a concern that we might be losing out on the innovation needed to tackle these pressing global issues.

With more Policy comes more regulation and more uncertainty in an already changing world requiring greater flexibility for companies to deal with compliance costs, Market Access, create  Innovation 

Blendly is a food security system built on the global infrastructure to allow

sustainable and transparent access to fresh coffee production. Developed for the global coffee consumer giving them transparent access to the components that make up your everyday cup of coffee.

Sodexo Research finds “20% Suppliers do not have a Carbon Reduction Plan”

Sodexo Research finds that ‘20% of suppliers do not have a carbon reduction plan in place.’ Blendly.co.uk collaborates with companies to facilitate their transition to Net Zero with its food security technology. Blendly PAAS is a digital platform that empowers volume coffee users to craft their unique blends using a diverse selection of high-quality green coffee beans from around the world. These blends are delivered through Blendly’s food security system, streamlining the coffee supply chain by reducing intermediaries and enabling direct shipment across complex networks………….. Learn more about carbon reduction with Blendly

Home Roasting Packs : Three Steps to a Great Coffee

The Blendly roasting packs enable you to join a community of coffee lovers that grows everyday, fostering a deeper understanding of your coffee’s contents. It assists you in developing your knowledge of beans, taste, and roasting colour for your home, friends, family, and workplace via blendly.co.uk. With the Home Roasting packs, all you need to do is start making and enjoying coffee. Blendly offers unique tools to help you create your blend, which is then managed and delivered to your satisfaction..…………. Explore more about home roasting packs