Nestled in the mountains of northern Vermont (and accessed by highways complete with moose and bear crossing signs) sits a very progressive and successful company: Green Mountain Coffee Roasters. On a recent road trip I took to visit our pioneering client, I immediately noticed that everyone in town knows them (no problem getting directions – in fact I got an earful), and everyone had something really positive to say about them. It could be that they employ over 800 people (one of Vermont’s largest employers); but more likely it’s because it’s such an amazing company.

Posting significant growth year after year and anticipating continued growth in the years to come, GMCR has positioned themselves for long term success. How have they done this? Innovation, quality products, branding, & serious corporate integrity. The icing on the cake is that this is a company that prides itself on corporate social responsibility. They give at least 5% of their pre-tax profits to social and environmental projects. They also support their local and global community by offsetting 100% of their direct greenhouse gas emissions and investing in Fair Trade Certified™ coffee (a concept they helped set in place).

And the hits just keep on coming… Recently, on Earth Day, they held a challenge to find potential solutions for climate change. Over 100 nonprofit organizations from around the world submitted proposals and four were each given a $200,000 grant. And when you check out their website, you will notice the many partnerships they form (some rotating) with leading nonprofit organizations to enhance their mission of protecting the environment. Awesome!

So, if you want to check out a really great company, or get some really fabulous coffee…here’s the place to go…www.greenmountaincoffee.com. And, if you want some really great names for your next campaign, need I say more?