1923

THE KENYAN COFFEE COMPANY

Our cooperative was founded by Kenyan farmers in 1923, selling roast and ground coffee from a shop in Vere Street, Mayfair and through mail order to British country houses. Expanding to premises in Bermondsey and Earlsfield, our coffee found its way to chic London restaurants like Scott’s, and events like Wimbledon. We expanded into retail, opening what we believe was the first branded coffee shop chain in the UK

Old photograph of one of the first The Kenya Coffee Company coffee houses

1930's

BUSINESS EXPANDS

Our business grows and we take over premises in Earlsfield and Bermondsey, as well as opening up our own chain of branded coffee houses.

Old photograph of Kenco's first coffee bean bags

1962

INTERNATIONAL SOURCING

By 1962, we were sourcing coffee beans from markets all over the world in a search for the very best quality and variety. So we changed our name to reflect this, and the Kenco Coffee Company was born.

1980's

NEW ERA FOR INSTANT

Our new instant, freeze-dried coffee launches using the same beans as our roast and ground coffee. Sold in a special jar from Japan, it’s supported by two decades of iconic advertising campaigns.

2000s

ETHICAL ACTIONS

Our focus on sustainability grows. In 2003 we begin working with the Rainforest Alliance, and all our coffee is certified by 2010. Our Sustainable Development coffee launches in 2004, followed by Eco Refills in 2009.

2014

THE KENYAN COFFEE COMPANY

In 2014, we started the Coffee vs Gangs initiative, a long-term commitment to creating opportunities for young people in Hondurus.

2010 TO PRESENT

STILL PIONEERING

We continue to launch world-first instant coffees. From Millicano in 2011, the first whole bean instant; to the first instant flat white in 2017; 2019’s Ice Latte, the first ambient iced coffee; and Duo, the unique two-step premium instant.

BRINGING US TO ...

COFFEE WE CAN ALL FEEL GOOD ABOUT

Bringing people – and communities – together through our shared love of coffee, and helping to make a better world for everyone. It all adds up to a cup of great-tasting, uplifting coffee everyone can feel good about.