ONESTO-Founder und Serial Entrepreneur Fox Hardegger

Friday, June 6, 2025
Reading Time: 4 min

«I saw firsthand how little of the global added value actually reaches the people who create it.»

With roots in ethical trade and a bold vision for a fairer coffee industry, ONESTO is redefining what it means to grow sustainably. In this exclusive interview, founder Fox Hardegger shares how ONESTO is using OOMNIUM to raise capital from a like-minded community — not just to scale, but to lead a movement where economic success and responsibility go hand in hand.

OOMNIUM: Why did you decide to raise funds through OOMNIUM?
F.H.: We believe in a business model supported by its users. That's how we got our start. OOMNIUM gives us that opportunity. We raise capital at eye level with people who share our values and believe that sustainable consumption can be economically successful.

OOMNIUM: What makes ONESTO truly sustainable and not just a marketing promise?
F.H.: To us, sustainability is not just a marketing gimmick, but rather the foundation. We are certified organic and Fairtrade. But that alone is not enough for us. We pay above-average purchase prices, know our producers, use an afterburner that produces practically zero emissions, and work with sustainable partners, from banking to pension funds.

We take this issue seriously, not because it sells well, but because we believe in it. We want to take responsibility for our products, the people behind them, and our future.

We always act within the framework of our values. These values are mandatory, even when competing against big brands because the coffee market is highly competitive.

OOMNIUM: What led you to found ONESTO based on your experience in emerging markets?
F.H.: Direct confrontation with the consequences of global trade based solely on profit maximization. I saw firsthand how little of the global added value actually reaches the people who create it. I could not accept being part of a market based on exploitation that simultaneously celebrates a glossy lifestyle to the outside world. Unfortunately, this is standard in the coffee industry. ONESTO is my answer to this! It's a company that thinks economically - but responsibly.

OOMNIUM: What will happen after the financing round? Where is ONESTO headed? 
F.H.: Our goal is to establish ONESTO as the leading sustainable coffee brand in Switzerland and spread our influence to Germany and beyond. I believe that we can change the market and demonstrate that it is possible to earn good money while being decent and sustainable. This includes expanding distribution and direct sales, developing new products (e.g., plastic-free capsules and ESE pods), and significantly strengthening brand communication.

The funds from the financing round will enable us to take this step in a solid, growth-oriented manner while always staying true to our values. Funding is essential if we are to compete against the big brands.

OOMNIUM: Why should I invest in ONESTO?
F.H.: Because ONESTO proves that economic success and consistent sustainability are not mutually exclusive. We are experiencing strong growth, we have a scalable business model, a loyal customer base, and clear market positioning, and we are profitable. Investors benefit from a fairly valued entry point, growth potential, and the opportunity to invest in a company that aims to have a real ecological, social, and financial impact.