Why is coffee culture dominated by men?

The perception of coffee as a male-dominated industry is rooted in a phenomenon researcher Dr. Erika Koss calls the 'gendered coffee paradox.' While women perform approximately 70% of the labor in coffee production—including picking, sorting, and processing—they represent only 20% to 30% of farm owners. This disparity extends beyond the farm, influencing barista demographics and leadership roles in roasting and café ownership.

Historically, gender roles have been deeply ingrained in the coffee supply chain. Women often lack equal access to land ownership, credit, training, and extension services compared to their male counterparts. This lack of access to resources translates into a measurable gap in economic outcomes, such as crop yields and household welfare. Even when women manage the daily operations of a farm, they frequently lack the decision-making power to influence long-term business strategy or pricing.

However, the landscape is shifting. Pioneering figures like Erna Knutsen, who coined the term 'specialty coffee,' and modern leaders like Phyllis Johnson and Trish Rothgeb have paved the way for greater representation. Today, emerging specialty coffee markets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East are seeing a new wave of female leadership. These professionals are actively building supportive networks and prioritizing transparency to dismantle traditional barriers.

In practice, this means the industry is moving toward a more equitable future. Organizations like the International Women’s Coffee Alliance are working to bridge the gap by providing resources and advocacy. For the consumer, supporting roasters and importers that prioritize gender equity—often highlighted through certifications or direct-trade transparency—helps ensure that the women who provide the majority of the labor are fairly compensated and empowered to lead.