Nespresso is teaming up with Café Joyeux to tackle high unemployment among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This partnership centers on inclusive hiring practices, aiming to create jobs while fostering social change. Café Joyeux, a coffee shop chain focused on employing IDD individuals, has a mission to provide meaningful work and training. Nespresso committed at least $500,000 to help expand the café’s U.S. operations, which already employ over 50% of their staff from the IDD community through permanent contracts. As a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, Café Joyeux reinvests all profits into training and operational expansion to further its inclusive employment goals. The collaboration aligns with Nespresso’s broader sustainability initiatives, including its B Corp™ certification achieved in 2022 for meeting rigorous social and environmental performance standards.
Café Joyeux’s employment model redefines how workplaces integrate IDD employees. Crew members—nearly two-thirds of the workforce—handle tasks like taking orders and preparing drinks, while “skippers” oversee operations. No prior experience is required, as the café provides full training and coaching.
Collaborating with IDD support organizations, the company recruits employees who often face barriers to employment. In the U.S., 78% of IDD adults are unemployed, highlighting the urgency of this initiative.
Training programs at Café Joyeux emphasize skill-building for long-term success. Over 91% of crew members develop job skills that enhance their independence and career prospects, while 93% report greater confidence. Managers and chefs guide employees through hands-on learning, equipping them for roles in hospitality.
These opportunities not only empower workers but also shift public perceptions of disability. Families note improvements in their loved ones’ daily lives, citing increased happiness and social integration.
Nespresso’s support extends beyond funding. Together, they launched a coffee capsule to symbolize “coffee as a force for good,” raising awareness about inclusive hiring. The collaboration highlights how businesses can drive community impact through intentional employment strategies.
