Working together for a strong coffee region

Since 2008, Dallmayr has been actively engaged in Ethiopia together with the foundation Menschen für Menschen (MfM). The aim of this partnership is to support smallholder farmers in rural regions through targeted project work. This commitment is closely linked to the company’s own history. The story of Dallmayr coffee begins in Ethiopia: In the early 1960s, Konrad Werner Wille, the founding father of today’s coffee business, traveled to Ethiopia in search of exceptional green coffees. In the birthplace of coffee, he discovered beans of outstanding quality that continue to shape the flavor of our blends to this day. This is why Dallmayr feels a special connection to the country and supports it sustainably together with the foundation “Menschen für Menschen.”

JOINT PROJECTS IN REFORESTATION, EDUCATION AND AGRICULTURE

With more than 55 million donated tree seedlings for reforestation, the construction of a school for 1,000 children, and the development of a coffee-growing region in the Dano project area, the Munich-based traditional company is strengthening Ethiopia as one of the most important coffee-producing countries in the world. In addition, the construction of 25 wells and four spring catchments has been financed, providing drinking water to around 8,000 people.

“Ethiopia is much more to Dallmayr than just the origin of exceptional coffees; it is a region with which we share a long-standing and trusting partnership. Together with Menschen für Menschen, we are committed to sustainably strengthening local prospects and supporting people in shaping and further developing the future of their coffee region through their own efforts,” says Dr. Johannes Dengler, Managing Partner of Dallmayr.

A special moment last year was the visit of Haile Gebrselassie—running legend, entrepreneur, and member of the foundation board of Menschen für Menschen—to the Dallmayr Academy in Munich. In a discussion with Dr. Sebastian Brandis, CEO (Spokesman) of Menschen für Menschen, and Dr. Johannes Dengler, Managing Partner of Dallmayr, he spoke about entrepreneurial thinking, responsibility, and the importance of education and personal initiative. His message: Only those who empower others to shape their own future create lasting development.

“At the heart of our commitment in Ethiopia are the people. As one of the most important countries of origin for our coffee, it is only natural for us to take responsibility here,” says Florian Randlkofer, Managing Partner of Dallmayr.

A NEW CHAPTER IN ILLU GELAN

In 2025, a new two-year collaboration with the foundation Menschen für Menschen began in the neighboring project region of Illu Gelan, close to Dano. In this district, covering 423 km² and comprising 18 municipalities, the organization has been implementing an integrated development program since 2020. Menschen für Menschen has already achieved progress, for example in the nutritional situation of many families, access to drinking water and healthcare, and new income opportunities—particularly for women.

As part of this program, Dallmayr is currently funding measures in the field of sustainable agriculture for a period of two years. In 2025 and 2026, the focus is on activities aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and diversifying income sources.

Households receive practical training in agroforestry, modern farming methods, and livestock management. Coffee plants, fruit and vegetable seedlings, as well as seeds, are provided to help establish additional sources of income. These measures are complemented by initiatives such as the introduction of beekeeping, vermicomposting, and improved irrigation techniques. Infrastructure projects—such as erosion control, terracing, and the completion of a coffee processing center—also contribute to securing long-term value creation locally. The goal is to significantly increase agricultural yields and sustainably improve the income of the participating families.

“As a partner, we support people on the ground in improving their living conditions through their own efforts and in creating prospects for the future,” says Dr. Sebastian Brandis, CEO (Spokesman) of the foundation Menschen für Menschen.