It’s International Women’s Day! As a female-founded and managed company we’re super passionate about supporting and empowering women around the globe. In fact, this is something we instinctively and actively strive towards year after year. Today we’re here to share a bit more about that - and shine a spotlight on some of our favourite women-owned businesses!
But first we're sharing with you some of the initiatives we have supported to champion woman both locally and globally. At Dear Green, we’re aiming to help make the world a better place, one delicious coffee at a time. This means giving back to the people and the planet where we can. Over the years, we’ve been lucky enough to have been able to support a number of inspiring causes and community groups that have a specific focus on improving the lives of women all around the world. Allow us to introduce you to some of them.
The Circle - Founded by Scottish singer-songwriter and activist Annie Lennox, The Circle is a brilliant organisation that brings Global Feminists together to fight for a fairer life for women and girls across the world. It’s an independent movement of women and allies from all walks of life who are bonded by the desire to live in a world where women and girls have equal rights and equal opportunities. We’re delighted to have been able to support Glasgow Rape Crisis Centre and The Afghan Women and Girls Solidarity Fund through The Circle in recent years through sales of our Goosedubbs Blend.
Girls Gotta Run - Girls Gotta Run invests in girls who use running and education to empower themselves and their communities in Ethiopia. Since its inception, Girls Gotta Run has seen 96% of its program participants in its two program locations avoid early marriage, complete the Girls Gotta Run program in full, and enter higher levels of education. 100% of sales of our popular, used coffee sacks go directly to this fantastic charity and have done since we learned of the great work they do when we visited Ethiopia in 2014. Order a sack, get up-cycling and create something special whilst giving back!
The Women’s Fund for Scotland - The Women’s Fund believes that “women are stronger together” and provides grassroots funding to projects run by and for women, either as start-up funds or to help pilot new initiatives. Overall, the Women’s Fund has distributed £2.8 million in grants to almost 600 community groups and local charities. Proceeds from our epic Three Roasters collaboration (with fellow woman run Scottish roasters) proudly supported this incredible fund.
Now, for the bit you’ve been waiting for! Here in Scotland, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to incredible cafes and eateries. Seriously, the list goes on. Today, in celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re here to share a handful of our favourite local hang-outs owned and run by inspirational women!
Laurie - Cafe Strange Brew
One of our favourite Glasgow Southside brunch spots? It has to be the iconic, award-winning Cafe Strange Brew. From tasty savoury dishes to sweet treats to die for, they’ve really covered all bases. Yet to try their legendary pancake stacks - washed down with a tasty Dear Green Brew? Then what are you waiting for? We’re forever amazed by the delicious specials produced by owner Laurie and her talented team and can’t wait for our next visit. Go team Strange Brew!
Mhairi - Ziques, Bakery by Zique, Acid Bar
Zique’s, a west end institution, is a multifaceted cafe, restaurant and bar that has been serving up delicious dishes for the locals in Partick and Hyndland for many years. Mhairi of Ziques developed a passion for food at a young age when she spent her time growing wholesome fresh produce, experimenting with various bakes, and whipping up mouth-watering meals. Hospitality has always been in her blood - and it really does show! No matter which Ziques location you visit, you’re sure to be in for a real treat!
Eva - Riverhill Coffee Bar, Riverhill Courtyard
Located in the heart of Glasgow’s bustling city centre, Eva Robertson and team set up Riverhill Coffee Bar as Glasgow’s first city centre specialty coffee bar! It’s a not-so-hidden gem, being right next to Central Station. Offering up an impressive array of fresh sandwiches, irresistible home bakes and delicious coffee, it's an absolute ‘must-visit’ for us! Planning a trip up The Clyde? Be sure to stop by their Helensburgh Courtyard location for some seriously good eats and cocktails too!
Joanna - Five March, Morning Glory
Two hotspots that really need no introduction! Effortlessly cool, innovative in their approach to flavour and with a loyal following. From those legendary roast potatoes and an impressive array of brunch specials - we’re truly spoiled for choice when visiting either of these foodie joints. We’re also big fans of co-owner Joanna Nethery’s locally sourced and ethical approach to food… and coffee! Jo is leading by example, proving that delicious dishes don’t have to cost the earth!
Lynn - Roast
Roast is a coffee shop with a difference. From wholesome breakfast sandwiches to delightful light bites and lunch options - Lynn and her team have well and truly hit the mark with this Glasgow gem! And then there's the home-made soups, the carefully prepared coffee, the cakes... it just goes on and on. But we'll leave it there for now. Stop by 1299 Argyle St and try out their delicious treats for yourself!
Lara - Foodstory Cafe, Foodstory Zero, Foodstory Beach Hut
Foodstory launched a Kickstarter with a dream of building a space where anyone of any age, any walk of life could not just eat great food but could come in and feel part of a community through art and music. Like us, they value people and the planet, and they’re passionate about bringing people together through food! From morning until evening, they serve food for all dietary requirements, brew exceptional coffee, and stage regular events to give people a chance to get together and have fun. Stop by and pay them a visit on your next trip to the north east, in fact check out their beach shack and join co-founder Lara on her daily wild swim!
Kirsty - Parx
In April 2014 Kirsty took over ownership of Parx Cafe with many years of hospitality experience, managing the Foyer Restaurant for 11 years and several years working in independent cafes around Aberdeen. From dreamy breakfast dishes to delightful sweet treat, Parx is an Aberdeen staple!
Fallon - Juicy
Entrepreneur Fallon Carberry of 'Juicy' has taken Glasgow's wellness scene by storm with her incredible line of health bars! Cold-pressed juices, custom acai bowls, fresh salads, you name it - Juicy has you covered! The fabulous Fallon is constantly ahead of the curve, providing innovative and super tasty creations at her insta-worthy health bars. Check out her West-End or Silverburn locations soon if you haven't already!
Ailie - Little Rock
Founded by the wonderful Ailie Duncan, Little Rock is a large cafe, restaurant and deli situated on the shore road in Brodick, on the beautiful Isle of Arran. Local lass Ailie brought her hospitality skills back to the island after years of working in Glasgow restaurants. Whether you're planning a trip to the island, or are an Arran local, you're sure to be in for a treat when visiting Arrans go too coffee spot! Thanks for bringing specialty coffee to the island Ailie!
With so many incredible women-owned cafes and businesses out there, our ‘To-visit’ list is truly never-ending. Keep on paving the way for others!
Coffee
Finally! Let's not forget the wonderful women in coffee! We’re super excited to have launched our ‘All the Ladies' coffee selection, featuring three delicious coffees from three women coffee producing cooperatives! The wonderful coffee growers of Rama Dufatanemunda (Burundi), AMACA (Colombia) and Red du Mujeres (Guatemala). Take a bow, your coffees are exquisite and we're so proud to roast them for you here in Scotland! Check out 'All the ladies' here!
Cheers to all of you incredible women around the world, we hope you feel empowered today on International Women's Day and every day! From the awesome team of Dear Green roastery gals, we’re raising a brew to YOU! Let's continue to make herstory!
Happy International Women's Day!