They also have a similar history first becoming popular in England and starting out as a beverage in the case of cocoa or chocolate. Coffee replaced chocolate as the most popular beverage in England and both competed for popularity in coffee and chocolate houses in the 1700s.

The end products are considered a luxury for the consumer. The proof being that the greater the economic development of the country, the more consumption of both coffee and chocolate. They are both considered a treat worthy of gift giving. The farmers of these luxuries rarely enjoy their own products. Most cocoa farmers in the Ivory Coast and Ghana have never tasted chocolate.

Although cocoa and coffee share similarities agriculturally, culturally, and socioeconomically, they are separate biologically unrelated plants. Their end users have many similarities with higher consumption in more affluent areas of the world. The resulting products are related in the sense that they are considered a sign of affluence produced by farmers who maintain minimal living standards.

Fair trade plays a strong role in both crops with coffee far ahead of cocoa in that area. Increased fair trade in these industries will ensure sustainability for the supply and growth of these popular luxuries. Consumers can contribute by seeking and buying products that are fair trade certified. They can feel good about buying their favorite treats while doing good. The farmers may eventually enjoy the fruits of their labor.