This is what you need to know about the Canadian singer’s collaboration with Nestle
Last updated: 23rd June 2025
TL;DR
- Nespresso brand owner Nestle are accused of major human rights abuses.
- The partnership highlights often-overlooked ethical considerations for collaborations.
The Weeknd has partnered with coffee brand Nespresso. Concerns have long been raised regarding the food giant’s conduct and exploitation of communities.
A collaboration promoting their Samra Origins Togetherness Blend celebrates the singer’s Ethiopian heritage. However, the brand is known for their ties to slavery, human rights abuses, and cover ups.
READ MORE: Cocoa Slavery: An In-Depth Interview with Ayn Riggs, Founder of Slave Free Chocolate
In a social media post, the two released a joint statement that reads: “Great coffee is like great art. It’s about hitting the right notes. Experience a taste that moves you – our collaboration with Nespresso launches soon.”
Nestle’s Human Rights Record
The corporation is notorious for a long list of international law violations. These include water exploitation, the infant formula scandal and most notably, forced labour in the cocoa (chocolate) industry of children and adults, noted in a 2005 lawsuit arguing they aided and abetted organised kidnapping and trafficking groups.
Nestle also have a track record for deforestation, breaking up workers unions, human trafficking in the seafood industry, and even market price manipulation.
It’s not the first time celebrities have endorsed Nespresso: Eva Longoria and surprisingly, George Clooney (known for his rights advocacy) has appeared in commercials with the latter retained on a long term contract.
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