What exactly is Café Don Paco?

Family Business created in memory of Frank Bendaña R.

It is the result of a family tradition that goes on for three generations, and the relation between our father, Frank Bendana (Don Paco), with his children, his teachings, his passion, our life. It is the life also of more than forty families that live at the farms and are responsible for the highest quality coffee.

Our philosophy is: “Succeed by sharing and helping neighbors”

Don Paco always taught us that we could not consider ourselves successful if our neighbors were not well. He always showed us to share the knowledge with others in order to help us continue improving. This fact becomes even more important in today’s demanding Knowledge Era.

Vertically integrated business

After more than 50 years in production, 35 years processing, and 15 years exporting, we have decided to share our experience in the retail of the highest quality coffee. Originating from the heart of the coffee region of Nicaragua, we believe we have a geographic advantage due to the fact that our farms are situated in the HEART of three Natural Reserves: El Arenal, Datanli, and Cerro Frio. Our dry mill is also situated within a cluster of dry mills in the most important drying area: Quebrada Honda, Matagalpa.

High sense of Social Responsibility

We have learned that nature and our people are the most important factors to achieve a quality product. We believe we need to pass on this privilege to future generations, so we strive to have the best Agricultural Practices to conserve our Flora and Fauna. We also believe that education and a healthy working place are essential to improve as a business and as a community, which in turn will contribute to our country’s wellbeing.

We provide optimal working conditions for employees

Due to the remoteness of the coffee farms in Nicaragua and the contribution we provide to our rural society, we have continued the tradition to provide proper housing for our workers. This is complemented with a proper daycare and schooling for the children. Our health care system includes a clinic and a full time nurse on site, with a doctor’s weekly visit. Our employees are also enrolled with the full coverage Social Security program that guarantees them Hospital attention if required.

Mission is to produce the highest possible quality coffee which in turn helps to build a better world by providing opportunities

Some of the children that went through our Pre-School and Elementary are now professionals that have returned to work and support the company in different areas including Information Technology and Education, not just in the agricultural part. We try to support the community providing them with the opportunities to improve their lives.

Other important topics about Café Don Paco!

Promote long-term direct relationships as a key factor for producing quality

The volatility of the coffee prices does not allow the coffee producers to plan properly over a long term in order to assure the best quality. This also affects coffee roasters and the consumers. We have been selling at a fixed price over long term contracts since 1997 and believe this methodology should serve as a model to the Specialty Industry.

Knowledge and experience sharing to improve specialty coffee in the country

Don Paco was the founding President of the Specialty Coffee Association of Nicaragua (ACEN) and very active in other trade associations. His son Roberto Bendana is currently Chairman of the Alliance for Coffee Excellence and also Past President of ACEN.