Thinking about shipping across borders? It’s one of the most effective ways to grow your business—and it’s easier than you might think. Get inspired by three small businesses that are successfully breaking into global markets, one cup of coffee at a time."
Did you know Africa is the birthplace of coffee? Today, the continent continues to lead with a new generation of specialty coffee brands meeting rising global demand.
But growing exceptional coffee is just the beginning. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa, expanding internationally comes with real logistical hurdles—from navigating cross-border shipping rules to ensuring fast, reliable delivery.
With the right logistics support, global growth is within reach. Discover how three thriving African coffee businesses broke into international markets—with a little help from DHL.
“Our mission as a business is to change the world, one cup of coffee at a time…”
Discover the inspiring journeys of three African SMEs who have mastered global expansion – with a little help from e-commerce.
Global expansion for your SME: five lessons from the coffee trailblazers
1. Make e-commerce the center of your business growth strategy
Looking to scale your business? Cross-border shipping is one of the most effective ways to reach new customers and grow globally. Thanks to digital commerce, connecting with international buyers has never been easier.
If you’re just getting started, selling through an established online marketplace is a smart, low-risk way to test international demand and gain valuable experience—before expanding on your own terms.
“You can’t grow the business without e-commerce because the world today is a global village.”
- David Ngarambe, Managing Director of Rwanda Farmers Coffee Company
2. Find a truly global partner
Exporting your product isn’t just about getting it on a plane – it’s about managing packaging requirements, navigating customs, handling last-mile delivery, and building a reputation for reliability. That’s where an international partner like DHL Express becomes invaluable. With a presence in over 220 countries and territories, the logistics leader has the global presence and local knowledge to help SMEs reach new markets, seamlessly.
3. Look for the personal touch
The right partner won’t just move products; they’ll help you streamline operations, reduce inefficiencies, and adapt as your needs evolve. In a competitive market, that level of tailored support can make all the difference – transforming a service provider into a strategic partner who’s genuinely invested in your long-term success.
“We use DHL because they take the time to actually understand what we’re doing, how we’re doing it, why it’s important that our coffee gets to our customers fresh. They came into our roasterie to understand how we pack and find the most efficient way to pack.”
- Ritesh Doshi, CEO of Kenya-based Spring Valley Coffee
4. Stay true to your values
As you scale, your values become your brand’s anchor. Customers around the world increasingly want to know not just what they’re buying, but who they’re buying from. For Rwanda Farmers Coffee Company, its fair-trade ethos is a non-negotiable part of its identity. The business’ commitment to ethical sourcing, fair pay, and community reinvestment is what sets it apart in a crowded global market.
5. Remember: sustainability isn’t optional
It’s no longer a “nice to have” – it’s a business imperative. International consumers are now demanding transparency in supply chains, environmentally conscious packaging, and low-carbon shipping options. Logistics partners can help here; DHL, for example, offers GoGreen Plus, a solution that helps businesses reduce the carbon footprint of their shipments with Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Happy planet, happy customers, happy bottom line!
Inspired? DHL Express is helping SMEs like yours go further – connecting local entrepreneurs to global markets with fast and reliable cross-border shipping. Your business could be the next success story!
Open a DHL Express Business Account
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