Pause for a cause

MONTREAL , Sept. 30 /CNW Telbec/ - As of October 1 , everyone who loves treating themselves to a Van Houtte coffee during their coffee break, whether in the office or cafeteria, will discover a new blend of coffee-the Pink Ribbon. This new offering, available through Quebec's nine Van Houtte distribution centres, will allow people to enjoy an excellent cup of coffee while helping an important cause: the fight against breast cancer.

Van Houtte is joining forces with this inspiring movement of solidarity, which year after year mobilizes its resources to raise awareness about the cause. By offering the chance to choose the Pink Ribbon coffee, Van Houtte is giving a voice to its customers who wish to show their support and draw attention to the courage of the women who battle this disease, as well as friends and family who see them through this difficult time in their lives.

"The implementation of this program originated with our philosophy of responsible commitment and our support for the cause in past years. Our employees also told us how important this cause was to them. Van Houtte therefore decided to get involved and give its customers a way to support the work of the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation," said Sylvain Toutant, President, Retail, at Van Houtte. "We needed to do something creative, original and simple. I think we've found the solution with the Pink Ribbon coffee." he added.

For the next three years, Van Houtte has committed to donate $50,000 to the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation. Each time a customer savours a Pink Ribbon coffee, the gesture will be added to the many others made in the goal of bolstering the fight against breast cancer.

About Van Houtte

Founded in Quebec in 1919, Van Houtte is one of North America's leading businesses in the roasting, marketing and distribution of gourmet coffee. Its activities fall into three distinct and complementary areas of expertise: the roasting and marketing of gourmet coffees, provision of office coffee services, and manufacturing of single-cup brewing equipment. These assets enable it to offer North American consumers, whether they be at home, the office or in a café, one-of-a-kind concepts that blend premium coffee, the latest technology, and world class service.

For further information: Sophie Merven, HKDP Communications and Public Affairs, [phone], ext. 239, [email protected]