Volcafe celebrates 175 years

Coffee is older than any of us. A story of trust.

Volcafe celebrates its 175th anniversary in 2026. Founded by Volkart Brothers in Bombay and Winterthur, the company began at a time when coffee was traded by sail, and trust was sealed by a handshake. Spanning three centuries, Volcafe has crossed oceans and adapted through wars, economic crises, technological revolutions, and dramatic shifts in global trade.

Yet through every cycle, one thing endured: the people behind coffee.

Over 175 years, Volcafe has evolved from a commodities trader into a builder of supply chains, a steward of relationships, and a partner in sustainability and quality. From its origins in India and Switzerland, the company expanded across Latin America, Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. Today, Volcafe operates in 26 countries across the entire value chain, connecting farmers and roasters to build a thriving, sustainable coffee business for all. 

As sustainability became central to coffee’s future, Volcafe continued to evolve, moving beyond trade towards partnership and impact. Through Volcafe Way, our farmer support programme, and responsible sourcing practices, its vision became action, supporting livelihoods, improving quality, and strengthening resilience at origin.

175 years is proof of vitality, the power to endure. Proof of versatility, the courage to adapt. And proof of visionary thinking, choosing responsibility, innovation and partnership. The next generation of coffee supply chains will be built on data, traceability, regenerative agriculture, and deeper partnerships between origin and destination.

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Together, we are writing the next chapter of coffee history.

Thank you for being part of it and for making coffee business better, together!