Testi Coffee

Testi Specialty Coffee, formally known as Testi Trading PLC, is a family-owned enterprise deeply embedded in the Ethiopian coffee sector. Founded in 2009 by Faysel Abdosh Yonis, the company was established to honor his family’s long-standing heritage in coffee cultivation, which dates back to his upbringing on his father’s farm. Since its inception, the company has grown into a significant player in the specialty coffee industry, operating a vast network of processing sites across Ethiopia’s diverse coffee-growing regions.

The company’s operational model centers on the management of numerous washing stations, such as the Gara Agena station in Sidama and the Duwancho station in Arbegona. These facilities are strategically located in high-altitude areas known for favorable microclimates. By establishing these stations, Testi provides local smallholder farmers—often referred to as 'out-growers'—with a reliable outlet for their coffee cherries. This infrastructure allows for meticulous control over processing methods, including washed, natural, and special preparation lots, which are essential for achieving the high-quality profiles demanded by international roasters.

Quality control is a cornerstone of Testi’s business philosophy. The company employs rigorous sorting and screening processes to ensure that only the finest beans are prepared for export. By paying premiums to farmers who deliver well-harvested, ripe cherries, Testi incentivizes quality at the farm level. This approach has enabled them to produce distinct, complex, and clean coffee lots that have gained recognition among specialty coffee professionals worldwide.

Beyond processing, Testi is deeply involved in the social and economic development of the communities where they operate. Faysel Abdosh Yonis has prioritized investments in the well-being of the thousands of out-growers who supply their stations. Documented initiatives include the funding of education centers and the construction of access roads, reflecting a commitment to long-term sustainability and community support that extends beyond simple commodity trading.

The leadership team at Testi remains a family affair, with Faysel working alongside relatives such as his son, Fahmi Faysel, and his nephew, Yisak Yonis. This multi-generational involvement ensures that the company’s founding values remain central to its operations as it continues to expand. The company is also an active member of key industry organizations, including the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX), the African Fine Coffees Association (AFCA), and the Ethiopian Coffee Exporters Association (ECEA).

Today, Testi Specialty Coffee is recognized for its professionalism and its ability to bridge the gap between Ethiopia’s traditional smallholder farming systems and the modern specialty coffee market. By maintaining a focus on transparency, quality, and producer relationships, the company has secured a reputation as a reliable partner for roasters seeking high-quality Ethiopian origins. Their work continues to evolve, with ongoing investments in processing technology and infrastructure to ensure the longevity of their family legacy.