Foreword Coffee PTE. LTD., established in 2017, is a locally-grown specialty coffee company with a heart for social impact. As a social enterprise and member of raiSE (Singapore Centre for Social Enterprises), their mission is to mainstream disability and normalize inclusion. They achieve this by providing inclusive training and employment opportunities for individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, deafness, and mental health conditions across their café outlets in Singapore. More than just a coffee shop, Foreword Coffee is a place that brings people together, fostering connections and uplifting communities through the shared love of coffee. Their vision is to create an equitable and sustainable value chain that empowers stakeholders from farmers to consumers.
Summary of Its Services/Products
Foreword Coffee offers a delightful range of specialty coffee products, crafted with care and precision. Their menu features unique brews like Yunnan Kaku (Citrus | Butterscotch | Black tea), Sirangalli Honey Sundried (Osmanthus | Starfruit | Brown Sugar), and Hello Neighbour Blend, catering to diverse palates. Beyond beverages, they provide coffee beans, brew bags, and merchandise, such as coffee cups made from coffee husk, available for purchase online at Foreword Coffee. Their cafés serve as cozy havens for coffee lovers, offering a welcoming space to enjoy a cup while supporting a meaningful cause. Additionally, Foreword Coffee provides catering services for events, ensuring their high-quality coffee reaches a broader audience. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their practice of direct sourcing from Asian coffee producers and roasting beans locally in Singapore.
Unique Value Propositions or Benefits
Foreword Coffee stands out for its dual commitment to exceptional coffee and social inclusion. By employing individuals with disabilities, they create an inclusive work environment that empowers these individuals to contribute meaningfully to society. Approximately 80% of their staff come from their target beneficiary groups, showcasing the strength of diversity in the workplace. This person-centered approach leverages the unique abilities of each employee, fostering a sense of purpose and community. Their focus on sustainability is equally compelling, with direct relationships with Asian coffee producers ensuring ethical sourcing and positive impact at the farm level. Locally roasted beans guarantee freshness, enhancing the coffee experience. In 2021, Foreword Coffee was awarded the Enabling Mark (Platinum) by SG Enable, the highest accolade for disability-inclusive employment practices. In 2022, they became a certified B Corporation, joining a global community of businesses committed to social and environmental outcomes.
Standout Features or Reviews
Customers consistently praise Foreword Coffee for its high-quality brews and inviting atmosphere. On Burpple, a reviewer highlighted the “Timeless Yuanyang” (S$5.50/8oz), describing it as “rich & smooth” with an Earl Grey ice ball adding a refreshing twist. Another customer noted that the flat white is “not bitter/sour,” appreciating the freshly roasted beans and the brand’s social mission of empowering persons with special needs. A Tripadvisor review shared, “I stumbled across Foreword while trying to find a place to hide out from the rain for a little bit and I have to say I’m really glad I stopped by! It’s a nice oasis in the chaos that Orchard Road can be sometimes.” These reviews underscore the quality of the coffee, the welcoming environment, and the brand’s meaningful impact. Foreword Coffee also introduces new coffee flavors every few weeks, keeping the experience fresh and exciting for regulars.
Areas of Singapore That They Serve
Foreword Coffee has a strong presence across Singapore, with five inviting cafés that cater to both quick coffee runs and leisurely afternoons. Their locations include:
- Esplanade Mall: Located in Singapore’s vibrant Civic District, this spacious café is ideal for casual meetups and private events.
- Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music: A cozy spot for students and music lovers.
- Mediacorp Campus: Convenient for media professionals and visitors.
- First Story Cafe: A welcoming space for community gatherings.
- Temasek Shophouse: Temporarily closed but previously a popular spot in the Orchard area.
These locations, detailed on their Locations page, ensure that Foreword Coffee is accessible to coffee enthusiasts across various parts of the city-state, from cultural hubs to business districts.
How Does the Brand Meet Singapore’s Needs?
Foreword Coffee addresses two key needs in Singapore: the growing demand for specialty coffee and the push for greater social inclusion. Singapore’s coffee culture has flourished in recent years, with consumers seeking high-quality, ethically sourced brews. Foreword Coffee meets this demand by offering specialty coffee that is both delicious and sustainable, sourced directly from Asian producers and roasted locally for maximum freshness. Simultaneously, the brand tackles social challenges by providing employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, a group that faces significant barriers in the workforce. Recent data from the Singapore Ministry of Manpower indicates that only about three in ten working-age individuals with disabilities are employed, often due to health or disability-related challenges. Foreword Coffee helps bridge this gap by offering training, career progression, and a supportive work environment, promoting a more inclusive society. Their B Corporation certification and Enabling Mark (Platinum) award reflect their alignment with Singapore’s goals of fostering equitable and sustainable practices.
Contact Information and Social Media
- Legal Name: FOREWORD COFFEE PTE. LTD.
- UEN Number: 201710902Z
- Registered Address: 28 KALLANG PLACE, #07-09, Singapore 339158
- Social Media:
- Facebook: Foreword Coffee Roasters.
Summary
Foreword Coffee PTE. LTD. is a shining example of how a business can blend excellence with purpose. Their high-quality specialty coffee, sourced sustainably and roasted locally, satisfies Singapore’s growing appetite for premium brews. More importantly, their commitment to social inclusion—through employing and empowering individuals with disabilities—sets them apart as a leader in creating a more equitable society. With multiple locations across Singapore, cozy atmospheres, and a mission that resonates deeply, Foreword Coffee is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a great cup of coffee while supporting a worthy cause. Whether you’re sipping a Timeless Yuanyang or grabbing a bag of Yunnan Kaku beans, you’re contributing to a movement that uplifts communities and inspires the can-do spirit in every individual.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: All information provided here has been compiled from publicly available sources. While we have made every effort to ensure accuracy, we do not guarantee that the information is complete or error-free. We disclaim any liability for inaccuracies or omissions. If you find any errors or have concerns about the content, please let us know so we can address them promptly.