The Origin of Anthem

For more than 30 years, the Hanson brothers have carried forward a legacy of sourcing coffees with integrity, precision, and deep respect for the people who grow them. That legacy began in the 1970s with their uncle, Vaughn Hanson, the head buyer for Folgers. His career offered rare insight into global coffee markets and the craft of sourcing at scale. In 1993, he founded Midwest Coffee Trading, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Anthem Coffee Imports—now recognized as a trusted green coffee importer for roasters across the United States.

Jon and Jeff Hanson took the reins in the years that followed, guiding the company through the 2nd and 3rd wave coffee movements while staying rooted in the principles Vaughn taught them. Their commitment to quality, relationships, and transparency shaped the company's identity and helped roasters source coffees that met their flavor, consistency, and storytelling goals. As the specialty market grew, Anthem evolved into a leading specialty coffee importer, connecting roasters with traceable, ethically sourced coffees from around the world.

In 2018, Jacob Burlin joined the ownership team as Chief Financial Officer, bringing strategic insight and financial stewardship to Anthem's next chapter of growth. Together, Jon, Jeff, and Jacob expanded the company's mission—championing sustainable, ethical trade, supporting farmers at origin, ensuring full traceability, and honoring every hand in the supply chain.

Today, Anthem Coffee Imports partners with producers and exporters whose relationships with our team stretch back as far as four decades. We expertly navigate every phase of the importing journey—from farm‑level selection and export logistics to cupping through offer, preship, and arrival samples. Many people search for a "green coffee exporter" when what they truly need is a reliable green coffee importer—a partner who understands both origin and destination, and who can bridge the gap with clarity, consistency, and care.

As we look ahead, we're not just importing coffee. We're helping define the 4th wave.