Just Coffee: Independently Thriving At Ethical Bean Company
Owning an independent coffeshop in London's economy would be considered as risky business, but this cafe proves otherwise, discover why...
Hi, Earthlings! This one’s a bit of a special (vegan) brownie treat! So sit on the comfiest cushion and sip on some warm tea while I read you my journey working for the wondrously magical cafe, with great toast, known as Ethical Bean!
In battling London’s waves of gentrification and the rising demand for ethically and sustainably sourced coffee, Ethical Bean Company unveils the hardships of sustaining a transparent coffee brand, alongside the compromises made to achieve the ultimate goal of becoming an entirely vegan & ethical café.
Accompanied by the warm atmosphere of friendly faces, EBC’s determination to blend ethics into mainstream coffee production has the potential to revolutionise the process of purchasing a cup of Joe. Consumers continue to reflect on their values in alignment with Ethical Bean’s ethos, which is wholeheartedly embraced by surrounding communities.
What is Ethical Bean Company?
Using their social mission to create a positive influence in their community and the environment by providing ethically sourced food and the more essential commodity (coffee!), they strive to help make the transition to a more ethical lifestyle as easy and joyful as possible. So, what are you waiting for? Get your ethical butt over here and enjoy their delicious turmeric latte: It was my first time tasting it, but I felt equally as healthy and satisfied as I indulged my colourful beverage while reading the local newspaper! Visit their website and order your beans! ☕︎
How can you find this coffee haven?
In the heart of Hackney Wick, Fish Island, only minutes away from iconic London landmarks such as the beautiful Victoria Park, London Stadium and UAL, London College of Fashion. Ethical Bean Co is a community hub for everyone with an array set of diverse customers with different professions that mirror the inclusive social values that London emulates.
What makes Hackney Wick so special?
Aside from being the hometown of EBC, Hackney Wick is well-known for its eclectic artwork and recent gentrification that began during the 1960s; gradually, from what was recognised as a "dump" then, it has now become a greater-than-London micro-city that positively celebrates the multicultural identity of the area. Also, I’m quite sure that the artist, FKA Twigs has a deep adoration for the community’s vibrant atmosphere and overall great vibe, so what’s not to like?
“One thing about this community which I love the most and why we have probably have survived for the past five years is because no matter what, even if it’s something small they’ll come and support you. They’ll come and buy a drink or a little treat — A £3 coffee for us doesn’t keep us alive but having people come everyday does, and that’s why we love Hackney Wick”
~ Emma, Co-owner of Ethical Bean Company
Why is being ethical valued?
As loyal inhabitants of Planet Earth, we must stay grounded to our true functionality and purpose as stewards and protectors of Mother Nature. Becoming mindful of our consumer actions is one way we can ensure that less harm is being endured by our trees, animals, and fellow humankind on other sides of the world.
By switching to cruelty-free alternatives will not only inspire to take more individual action for the betterment of all species, but it will also broaden your perspective on life; serving others will give you a deeper appreciation for life itself while respecting others as thoughtfully as possible.
“The guys here (baristas) seem to know everybody’s names, which is quite unusual -it’s really fun” ~ new customer
If you fancy checking out this whimsical cafe with great coffee, feel free to visit plainfacemag’s Instagram and check out all the lovely customer interactions and the visual representation of my time exploring EBC!
⋆˙⟡⋆˙⟡⋆˙⟡ Extra crumbs ⋆˙⟡⋆˙⟡⋆˙⟡
It’s not the most extensive blog post rambling on about why we should help save the Earth, directed to the people who are already trying their best. It’s come as no surprise to me how many individuals who call themselves ‘entrepreneurs’ are seeking one thing and one thing only: money. “Money makes the world go round,” they tell me, something I am just so tired of hearing. The fallacy that money will bring you happiness and joy—why would I want to be led by a society filled with money-hungry addicts? Like consumerism is freedom, yet it burdens our souls; it glues our eyes to the 4 x 16 interactive screen. My child, the future gen, refuses this world, they want no mother as a slave in this system to amount to anything to have a reasonable start elsewhere, by the money I made here. I want my future first born to live, free with not a single ounce of knowledge given to the worthless transaction that is money, they will teach ME spirituality and how to open my heart and self even wider to grow my soul amongst others and form bonds no not shareholder bonds and stockholder crap. Real things. Real people. Real grass. No lies or promises.
This is the future I would like to lead. What is greater than money? God, you say? Well, we are greater than God. We are God. Call me crazy and unrealistic I just might love it.