Cooperative Cepicafe, Central Piurana de Cafetaleros, was created in 1995 as an efficient and professional union of 51 base organizations. Cepicafe represents the small scale coffee farmers of the Piuran Mountains and Cajamarca. Cepicafe is a union in which all members are constantly and democratically involved in making decision and it is a strong reference for the implementation of measures and actions. They are working to improve the conditions of life for its members, eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development for the communities.

In the Piuran region, coffee production started 100 years ago, thanks to the introduction of a variety called "typical," also known as the Creole Coffee. This rustic variety is successful in the region because of its adaptation to the agro-climate conditions.

Altitude: 2700-4800 feet
Variety: Typica
Processing Method: Washed
Grade: Strictly Hard Bean
Species: Arabica
Harvest: May to November

Cup Characteristics: mild, pleasant nutty and sweet vanilla aromas, clean and consistent cup Peru La Florida

Cooperative La Florida was established in 1966 starting with only 50 members. October of 2008 marks its 42nd Anniversary. In 2002 Elan Organic Coffees and La Florida established a long term contract. With this long term contract, the producers were able to continue their growth and establish future goals with security that they would be able to sell their product. La Florida works to improve the community in many ways. They support local schools by providing pencils, erasers, notebooks and other items. The Cooperative also owns their own tractor and a truck, allowing them to maintain the roads, making sure they are in good condition, making it easier for members to transport coffee with access from their community into town.

Credi La Florida was established in 2002 with $320,000, allowing for small loans to members. Currently more than 1300 producers use this micro-credit program. Their long term goal is to be able to offer small loans to other organizations with low interest rates.

Within the Cooperative, CETPROP, is an organization for the members' families. They currently have a few programs for the kids, including a program on organic agriculture and another on agronomy. The idea is to promote leadership and creativity so students can return to their communities and apply what they've learned. 70% of La Florida's employees are members or member's sons and daughters. The other 30% that are non-members have quickly become part of the La Florida family! Elan Organic Coffees and La Florida have a wonderful partnership.

Altitude: 4800-6000 feet
Variety: Typica, Bourbon, Pache, Caturra
Processing Method: Washed
Grade: Strictly Hard Bean
Species: Arabica
Harvest: May to August

Cup Characteristics: spicy, floral sweet nippy acidity, full creamy body and well-balanced cup

Founded in 1961, Cooperative San Juan del Oro was originally affiliated with CECOVASA, before breaking away in the 1970's, linking with Cafe Peru. San Juan del Oro eventually became independent, joining the Register in 1991 and starting to supply Cafedirect in 1998. The Cooperative provides various services to its members, including direct export and marketing of their coffee and community development programs such as the Committee for the Development of Women. San Juan del Oro is also part of the organic program in Sandia, with over 50% of its members organic certified. The traditional techniques used by the farmers of San Juan del Oro, provide clear evidence that coffee, when grown under conditions stipulated for organic certifications, can actually prevent deforestation and is the best agricultural method for preserving the environment.

Altitude: 3600-5400 feet
Variety: Typica, Caturra, Bourbon
Processing Method: Washed
Grade: Strictly Hard Bean
Species: Arabica
Harvest: May to November

Cup Characteristics: chocolate, walnut aroma, with rich smooth body and sweet aftertaste