Since 2015, we've been thankful for the opportunity to enjoy the finest-processed coffee green beans, known as Specialty Coffees. We get these directly from a small cooperative called ASNIKOM. Our promise is to always know where each coffee bean comes from, and we especially value knowing which farmer grew it. We don't mix beans from different growers; each one is from a single farmer. The person leading this effort is Lodovikus Vadirman, who is hardworking and determined. He worked tirelessly to help small-scale farmers come together and form the cooperative. Every year, Lodovikus plays a crucial role in making sure our coffee orders go smoothly. We really notice and appreciate his efforts.
After four long years of not being able to visit our beloved coffee farmers because of Covid19 rules, we were finally able to go see them in early 2023. But our happiness was mixed with sadness when we saw that Mr. Vadirman had become quite wealthy, and his family had gathered a lot of money in these past years. Being prosperous isn't necessarily bad, but it does bring a contrast to the other farmers who work just as hard and trust us. It's sad to see such a big difference.
We think that a Dutch company, who is the main importer of ASNIKOM coffees, might have played a role in Mr. Vadirman's change in circumstances. It seems like money and nice words can influence a person's choices. Because of this, Mr. Vadirman no longer follows our "Two-Kings-Principle." We understand the importance of building personal relationships with every coffee farmer. We strongly believe that true respect comes from sincere and direct connections.
What was first seen as a sad situation can now be seen as a chance. We can now create closer connections with different farmers and put into action the details of our principle. By doing this, our goal is to have open, honest, and deep relationships with all our partners. This way, we aim to create a future that is not just fulfilling, but also based on trust and shared respect.
We say goodbye to Mr. Vadirman with great respect, and we wholeheartedly dedicate ourselves to helping the six families of coffee farmers who have enthusiastically embraced the "Two-Kings-Principle" with us. As we leave ASNIKOM behind, we begin a new and deep trading partnership with these farmers. It goes beyond the usual way of doing things - that's why we now call it the "pure Two Kings Principle".