Studies on the effects of certification for coffee production in
rural communities and for the wellbeing of local farmers were
initially based on anecdotal evidence, relying on qualitative
interviews to capture stakeholders’ perceptions. Some more
quantitative data have been generated through comparative
case studies of certified and non-certified farmers (Bacon,
2005; Jaffee, 2007) and sector-wide analyses that focused
attention on price advantages and market shares of certified
products (Raynolds & Wilkinson, 2007). In a similar vein, several studies compare different certification regimes and outline
their effects for the adoption of improved farm management
practices, coffee quality upgrading, and net marketing margins