The Thx Co. : interview with founder Ricardo Jose Bueso
We are huge coffee addicts around here at CAUSEBOX HQ, so when we found a coffee that would keep us caffeinated AND give back, there was no question that we had to put it in the CAUSEBOX! The Thx Co. makes some of the best coffee and the most magical smelling perfume, but what makes them even better is that they donate100% of their profits to non-profits around the world. Read our interview with founder, Ricardo Jose Bueso!
1. Why did you start THX Co.? What was the need in the marketplace that you were trying to meet?
At our core, we believe the purpose of business extends well beyond profits alone. Also, the need that exists in today’s world is exponentially great. Whether it’s access to clean drinking water, proper healthcare for America’s veterans, or basic cancer screenings for impoverished women in Guatemala, there is so much to be done. The things we buy say a lot about us, and people overwhelmingly want that to be positive. The environment of commerce today shows that more and more people are beginning to expect that their favorite brands do more to invest in social good. So, we set out to prove an innovatively altruistic concept: that it’s possible for a for-profit company to exist and donate 100% of its profits, sustainably.
The THX Co. (“Thanks”) is the representation of that foundational mission. We are out to challenge the way people think about “businesses that give back” by responsibly sourcing unique, daily essential goods from makers around the world. We then offer them to you at the genuine costs of bringing them to market, and transparently donate 100% of profits to non-profit projects.
2. THX Co’s giving model is obviously radical and beautiful — can you briefly explain how it works and how your customers are having direct impact?
From the very beginning, we set out to empower customers with clearer facts surrounding their purchases, specifically, when it comes to consumers knowing exactly what they’re paying for, how much they’re giving, and where that money all goes.
We call it the Cost+ Model. With the Cost+ Model, you’re able to see exactly how we price our goods. All THX goods are sold at the genuine costs (product costs + admin expenses) of bringing them to market, plus (+) a donation of your choice, to the cause of your choice. While we donate 100% of profits, we understood the importance of a customer always knowing how much each individual purchase gives back. That’s why THX allows its customers to add a donation once they’ve selected a cause to support.
3. Are there any specific stories that come right to mind about people who have been supported and restored by THX Co.’s generosity?
Finca la Maravilla, or “The Farm of Wonders,” is a small, 17-acre micro-farm owned by Manuel Sarpecs and his family. Nestled in the highland region of Fraijanes, Finca la Maravilla is situated just below Pacaya, the most active of Guatemala’s three erupting volcanoes. The rich, volcanic soil characteristic to Fraijanes is located at such a high altitude above sea level that the production process can yield some of the tastiest coffee on the planet. Despite the majestic ecology of Guatemala’s coffee growing regions, many smaller farmers lack the basic market access needed to sustain their livelihoods. By establishing direct trade relationships with independent micro-farmers, like Manuel, and local roasters, we’re able to empower growers, eliminate costly middlemen, and focus on creating more economic opportunities for the local coffee industry.
4. There are all kinds of products that you could have created, why did you choose coffee and perfume? Do they have anything in common that caused you to launch with these two products?
We believe that giving back should be simple. It should be as easy and natural as a morning cup of coffee, a splash of perfume before walking out the door, or a simple “Thank You” to someone kind along the way.
We chose to launch with two daily essential flagship products: coffee and fragrance.These are products we often use and interact with on a daily basis, sometimes even without knowing. Daily essential goods like delicious coffee or a fresh cologne have the ability to change your morning, inspire new ideas, bring back memories and spark conversations that matter.
5. What kinds of new things can we expect to see from THX Co. in the next year?
We’re consistently challenging ourselves to do good in all that we do. That includes everything from expanding the reach of our products in stores across the country, developing new products, creating new non-profit partnerships, and most importantly preparing our first annual giving and transparency report. Really looking forward to 2016.
Facebook: facebook.com/TheTHXCo
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