"Never before has there been a greater need to look closely at how we all source our food and drink, whether it is home grown or produce from another part of the world," said O'Briens CEO Fiacra Nagle. "Our exclusive coffee blend is no different with fair, ethical and honest procedures at the heart of our offer.

"Sourcing beans direct from the grower means that we can help make a real and sustainable difference to economic growth in the countries of origin, where people are eager to embrace improved trade opportunities and create better livelihoods for themselves. By doing our bit, we can help eradicate poverty and impact positively upon thousands of people - thousands of lives. Surely there is no better way to trade?"

While the source for the beans has changed, the natural flavours and aromas of the O'Briens exclusive, secret blend remain unchanged. Beans are still roasted using the skills developed over many generations by an Italian family firm of master-roasters, so customers can still enjoy their favourite speciality coffee whether a cappuccino, cafÉ latte, mocha, americano or espresso.

"No matter how good the source of our beans or blend, it still has to be made to perfection," said Fiacra Nagle. "It is all part of our devotion to bringing customers the very best cup of fair, ethical and honest coffee, whether they are in an O'Briens in Ireland, the UK or one of the other 12 countries where we operate around the world."