A more recent Fairtrade world first is the launch of fresh blueberries: first of all from South Africa, and more recently from the Apicoop co-operative in Valdivia, southern Chile.

The main offices and processing plant of Apicoop are in Paillaco, in Valdivia, but it’s members are spread across a vast area; from the outskirts of Santiago to the Chiloe Island. Principally a honey producing co-operative, Apicoop has now diversified into producing blueberries, which we are proud to stock in some of our stores.

Apicoop co-operative

In 2005, Apicoop purchased 21 hectares of land for their blueberry project. Following several months of clearing and cultivating the land, a well was established in June 2006, signalling a huge investment. Three people were hired to install the poles to support the mesh, which creates the light, shade and protection from the sun which is needed to grow their truly delicious blueberries. Apicoop decided to grow three or four varieties of blueberries, so that the crops are staggered to create a full working season. In late 2010 the first of these fantastic blueberries were sold in The Co-operative stores.

As a further demonstration of commitment to coo-operative support, a project has been funded by The Co-operative's members which will allow Apicoop to pack their own fruit in future seasons. This will allow them to sell their blueberries more efficiently into the Fairtrade market.   

During Fairtrade Fortnight 2011, Chino Henriques, manager of the Apicoop co-operative, was flown over to the UK by Traidcraft, the Fair Trade organisation with which Apicoop has a long-standing partnership. Chino toured the UK with representatives from The Co-operative Membership, attending members’ events in all seven regions; this gave some of our members and staff the opportunity to learn about the benefits of Fairtrade from one of our own Fairtrade suppliers!

About Chino

Chino is a Veterinarian and Beekeeper, and lives in the south of Chile in the city of Valdivia, with his wife Anabella and their two teenagers: Isidora (16) and Joaquin (14).

For the past 25 years, Chino has acted as a passionate promoter of Fairtrade for many producers and co-operatives in Chile, as well as Mexico, Guatemala, Colombia and Nicaragua. He is a tireless traveller, promoting and campaigning for Fairtrade.

Fairtrade products are indeed an instrument of justice. Efforts like this highly contribute to make a better living for thousands around the world. It truly is another concrete step to make this planet a better place for all.

Since 1990, Chino has actively collaborated with Apicoop's long-term British partner, Traidcraft, based in Newcastle. Chino is also Chairman of the Board of the Fairtrade Labelling Organisation International Certification in Bonn Germany.