The heart of B.C.: small local businesses make a big impact
By Buy BC
February 26, 2025
This winter, the Buy BC team had the delightful opportunity to visit two charming Buy BC partner businesses located in beautiful Greater Victoria, B.C.: Level Ground Coffee Roasters (Victoria, B.C.) and Country Bee Honey Farm (Saanichton, B.C.). Both producers are committed to making high-quality products locally, but their approaches couldn’t be more different—yet equally inspiring.
Level Ground Coffee Roasters: innovative commitment to sustainability
Our visit to Level Ground Coffee Roasters began with a behind-the-scenes tour of their roasting facility, where we learned the magic that goes into crafting their rich, flavourful coffee. What sets Level Ground apart is their dedication to sourcing beans from small-scale, family-owned farms and co-operatives. This commitment ensures that farmers receive fair compensation while their communities thrive.
In addition to their strong ethical sourcing, Level Ground is a pioneer in sustainability. They’ve been zero-to-landfill for over 20 years. Their patented roasting technology radically reduces emissions, they have 13 streams of recycling and composting including donating their organic chaff (roasted coffee bean skins) and coffee sacks to neighbouring Saanich farmers. Their impressive sustainability efforts earned them a nomination for the 2024 BC Food and Beverage Circularity Award, recognizing their innovative, eco-friendly practices.
Level Ground’s small-batch roasting process and community-focused values make them a true leader in B.C.’s coffee industry. And if you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to visit their roastery café to taste their expertly brewed coffee paired with local pastries.
Country Bee Honey Farm: a family farm with heart
Next, The Buy BC team headed to Country Bee Honey Farm, a charming family-run operation that offers more than just honey. Co-owner Jason Dault gave us an insightful tour of their 11-acre farm, where we met some friendly farm animals, including chicks, goats, emus, and even alpacas! The farm is a haven for pollinators, with acres of vibrant seasonal flowers–including sunflowers from July through October–creating a picturesque setting for visitors.
Country Bee’s pride and joy are their premium honey products, collected from nine different locations around the Saanich Peninsula. Their retail shop features not only honey and beeswax but also a selection of locally sourced gifts, including items from other B.C.-based producers.
During our visit, we learned about the importance of bees and pollinators to our ecosystem, and Jason shared their farm’s dedication to preserving these vital creatures. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check out Country Bee’s Farm Experience (details for the 2025 season to come). It’s a self-guided tour where you can explore the farm and learn about bees and pollination while taking in the beauty of nature.
Pro tip: passes for the 2025 season are available for advanced purchase in-store or online.
A unique blend of local excellence
Visiting Level Ground Coffee Roasters and Country Bee Honey Farm gave us a glimpse into the diverse ways B.C. businesses are creating high-quality products with sustainability at their core right here in our province. From innovative, technology-driven operations to family farms rooted in tradition, both businesses are making a positive impact on their communities and the environment.
Learn more and shop Buy BC products from these small local businesses:
- Level Ground Coffee Roasters, 1757 Sean Heights, Victoria, B.C.
- Country Bee Honey Farm, 6440 W Saanich Rd, Saanichton, B.C
Find more posts about eating locally.
Find more Buy BC products.