06th January 2026
Sustainability is no longer a trend. It’s now a key part of how modern businesses operate, especially in the food and beverage sector. Customers are becoming more conscious of where their coffee comes from, how it’s grown, and what happens after they drink it. For cafés, restaurants, and offices, offering eco-friendly coffee options is not only good for the planet, but also great for business.
At John Street Beverage, we’ve spent over 40 years helping our clients serve high-quality coffee while keeping sustainability in mind. In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways your business can make eco-friendly coffee choices without compromising on taste or quality.
One of the simplest ways to become more sustainable is to source your coffee responsibly. This means choosing beans that are grown under fair conditions, with care for both people and the environment. Look for certifications such as Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade, or organic, which show that the farmers receive fair wages and the land is protected from harmful farming practices.
We stock a wide selection of responsibly sourced beans from some of the world’s leading roasters. Brands like Lavazza have made major commitments to sustainability, supporting farming communities and investing in renewable practices. By using these beans, your business supports long-term sustainability across the entire supply chain.
It’s easy to forget how much waste a busy coffee shop can produce. From takeaway cups and lids to coffee bean bags and milk containers, the packaging adds up quickly. Switching to compostable cups, recyclable lids, and biodegradable stirrers can make a huge difference.
We offer eco-conscious packaging solutions that are both functional and responsible. For wholesale customers, we also provide coffee in larger pack sizes to cut down on waste. Choosing better packaging reduces your carbon footprint and sends a clear message to your customers that you take sustainability seriously.
Dairy alternatives have become increasingly popular, and not just with vegans. Oat, almond, soy, and coconut milks all have a lower environmental impact than traditional dairy. Including these options in your menu shows that you’re keeping up with customer preferences and lowering your environmental impact at the same time.
Our team can recommend plant-based milks that steam well and pair perfectly with coffee. We also offer guidance on pricing and stock levels to help you add these to your menu with ease. Small changes like this can have a lasting effect on customer satisfaction and loyalty.
A trained barista can do more than just make great coffee. They can also help reduce waste in your business. Knowing how to steam the right amount of milk, grind beans correctly, and measure shots precisely all helps prevent unnecessary waste.
Our barista training courses include best practices for efficiency, cleanliness, and waste reduction. We believe that when staff understand the full process, they take greater care in how resources are used. Over time, this leads to a more efficient and eco-friendly operation.
A well-maintained coffee machine runs more efficiently, uses less power, and wastes fewer beans. Regular servicing ensures that your machine isn’t overworking or leaking, and that every component is running at its best.
At John Street Beverage, we offer scheduled servicing across Kent and beyond, covering all major brands including Lavazza, Jura, Expobar, and Fracino. Keeping your machines in top condition isn’t just good for your coffee, it’s good for the environment and your energy bills too.
Choosing local suppliers helps reduce transport emissions and supports nearby businesses. By sourcing coffee, consumables, or equipment from UK-based companies, you lower your carbon footprint and encourage a stronger, greener supply chain.
As a Kent-based family business, we work closely with other local suppliers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability. When you order from John Street Beverage, you’re choosing a supplier who values long-term impact over short-term gains.
Eco-friendly coffee choices don’t have to be difficult or expensive. In fact, they often lead to better customer satisfaction, long-term savings, and a stronger brand reputation. From choosing ethical beans and packaging to maintaining your machines and training your staff, there are many practical steps your business can take.
If you’re ready to make your coffee offering more sustainable, we’re here to help. Get in touch with the team at John Street Beverage to discuss eco-friendly coffee solutions that fit your business goals.
