Thistle Hotels is to sell only sustainable coffee throughout its estate, despite it increasing costs by 15%.

The hotel operator, which serves 9.1 million cups of coffee in its bars, restaurants and banqueting facilities, has signed a deal with supplier Kenco to serve coffee that comes from Rainforest Alliance certified farms.

Thistle currently spends £263,000 per year on coffee products, the 15% increase will bring Thistle’s annual spend on coffee above £300,000.

Stephen Brannigan, food & beverage development manager of Thistle Hotels, insisted that the cost increase was justified:

"As a leading hotel group, it's imperative that we recognise the importance of sourcing products that are kinder environmentally, economically and socially.

“Thistle has a responsibility to make sure the 9 million cups of coffee we serve not only taste great but are fair to all involved.”

Thistle Hotels company profile >>

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Thistle sale of 28 four-star hotels complete >>

Welcome to Caterer's Green Month >>

By Christopher Walton

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