Tanjona Ranjalahy, a newcomer to Madagascar's coffee industry, is determined to produce the country's best coffee through her company, Moli Company. Her journey began when her parents, coffee enthusiasts, passed down a coffee plant to her. She noticed the unique taste of the coffee made from the plant's seeds and decided to create a business around it. Ranjalahy founded Moli Company in December 2020, combining her parents' names to create the company's name.
Moli Company sources its coffee beans from the Itasy region, known for producing high-quality Arabica coffee. The company works with cooperatives of female farmers trained by Prosperer to ensure fair trade practices. Ranjalahy and her team have invested time and resources into learning about coffee production, as they had no prior technical knowledge. Their goal is to create a unique and high-end coffee product that showcases Madagascar's coffee potential.
The company's flagship product, Royal Café Zanatany, has gained popularity for its fruity and chocolatey flavor. Moli Company has a daily production capacity of 100 kg and operates a small workshop with a roaster and grinder. The company's roasting process is artisanal, taking 15 minutes to bring out the coffee's aromas and flavors. This approach differs from industrial roasting methods, which can be quicker but may compromise on quality.
To ensure the quality and packaging of their product, Moli Company has invested in equipment, including a valve-degassing system and a tin-tie closure. The company's coffee is available in major supermarkets, specialty stores, and restaurants. Ranjalahy has also participated in entrepreneurship programs, including the Tony Elumelu Foundation and the French Embassy's SCAC program, which have provided her with funding and support.
Launching a business during the pandemic presented significant challenges, including finding suppliers and clients. Ranjalahy relied on her passion, perseverance, patience, and faith to navigate these difficulties. Initially, she used personal financing, but later secured funding from the aforementioned programs. Her determination and resilience have enabled her to overcome obstacles and establish a presence in the competitive coffee market.
Moli Company's commitment to fair trade practices and high-quality production has set it apart from larger enterprises. Ranjalahy's goal is to create a premium coffee product that showcases Madagascar's unique coffee profile. By working with local farmers and investing in quality control, Moli Company aims to make a positive impact on the country's coffee industry.
As Moli Company continues to grow, Ranjalahy remains focused on her vision of producing Madagascar's best coffee. With a strong foundation in place, the company is poised to expand its reach and establish itself as a major player in the country's coffee sector. By prioritizing quality, sustainability, and fair trade practices, Moli Company is well-positioned to succeed in the competitive world of specialty coffee.
Key points
- Moli Company's commitment to fair trade practices and high-quality production sets it apart from larger enterprises.
