Packaging Change - FAQ

Starting June 15th, 2025, our 340g (12oz) bags will replace the 1lb (454g) formats, aligning with the standard sizes used by most other specialty coffee companies.

Here’s what’s staying the same:
The price and the quality.

Here’s what’s changing:
The amount of coffee in each bag.

With the continued volatility in green coffee pricing and rising costs of shipping and packaging, this shift is a proactive step to keep my coffee accessible while supporting the long-term sustainability of the business. Moving to a smaller format allows me to maintain the quality you expect, without cutting corners or compromising on values.

This shift has become the standard across the specialty coffee industry, and for good reason. It helps small roasters like me stay viable without compromising on quality or core values.

Pricing Volatility:

The graph above shows the Commercial Coffee Price Trend (in US dollars) over the last decade. It tracks the price of commercial coffee traded on the global commodities market, often referred to as the C-Market. This is where large volumes of lower-grade coffee are bought and sold—think big brands and supermarket blends. Specialty coffee (the grade of coffee I purchase) isn’t traded on this market, but is heavily impacted by it. The coffees we buy score higher in quality and pay significantly more money to producers, often 30-40% higher than the prices shown on this chart.

In the past year, many of the green beans I purchase have DOUBLED in price, leading to significant changes in the way we operate. The latest and most impactful change is the switch from 1lb (454g) to 12oz (340g) bags.  

1. Why are you changing from 1lb (454g) to 340g?

This change brings Ascent Coffee in line with industry standards, as most specialty coffee roasters package their products in 340g bags. This will help me manage rising costs without compromising on quality, service or accessible price points.

2. Will the price change?

Nope—the price will stay the same. You’ll see a smaller bag, but it allows me to keep your favourite coffee affordable and consistent.

3. Am I getting less coffee while paying the same amount?

Technically, yes—but it’s the best alternative to a significant price hike. With costs nearly doubling in less than a year across green coffee, freight, and packaging, this change enables me to continue sourcing high-quality beans and roasting with care, while maintaining viable operations as a one-person business.

4. Why not offer both sizes?

Offering multiple formats would increase complexity in production, packaging, and inventory. At this scale, maintaining a streamlined approach helps me stay focused on quality, freshness, and delivering excellent service.

5. How should I adjust my ordering?

You may want to adjust your volume slightly if you were previously ordering by the pound. I’m happy to help you recalculate how much coffee you’ll need based on your usual use.

6. Will the packaging look different?

The bags may look slightly smaller, but you can expect the same branding and freshness. Everything else stays the same—roast dates, quality standards, and the hands that roast it (just mine!).