The Co-operative is passionate about Fairtrade, and we've been supporting it since the inception of the Fairtrade mark back in 1994. So for this year's Fairtrade Fortnight - which runs between 27th February and 11 March 2012 - here are a few facts on Fairtrade as well as some ways you can get involved...
What is Fairtrade?
Fairtrade is an alternative to conventional international trade. It promises a stable price and a long-term trading relationship, guaranteeing disadvantaged producers in developing countries a better deal. The additional Fairtrade Premium they receive can be used to improve their working and living conditions, and for community projects such as providing clean water.
That’s great news for:
Producers - Fairtrade means prices that will always cover the cost of production and allow for sustainabl
e livelihoods, no matter how low the world price gets for their crops.
Workers - Fairtrade means decent working conditions and wages that meet international and local labour standards.
Communities - The Fairtrade price also includes an extra premium so that producers can invest back into their communities and businesses.
Customers - Fairtrade products offer great quality at reasonable prices, and can be enjoyed with the peace of mind that everyone involved in their production has been treated fairly.
How can you get involved in Fairtrade?
Here are just a few activity ideas on how you can
get involved in Fairtrade events and campaigns, both on Fairtrade Day and beyond!
Check out http://www.fairtradeway.org.uk/ and see how you can support the development of a national Fair Trade walk. Starting outside The Co-operative Food store in Garstang, Lancashire (the World’s first Fairtrade Town), and heading north to Keswick in Cumbria, the newly launched Fair Trade Way sponsored by The Co-operative, is set to link Fairtrade communities far and wide.
See Fairtrade in action and learn about the projects that customers of The Co-operative Fairtrade products have helped make a reality. Ask our Customer Relations team (tel:0800 0686727) for a copy of our new 3 hour DVD packed with farmer interviews and case studies.
Become a Fairtrade Ambassador and support your local institutions by offering your services at Fairtrade meetings and school events, and don’t forget to advertise your event in our stores!
Fairtrade tasting sessions are a great way to kick-off a Fairtrade campaign or to generate interest. Ask your store manager about providing products.
Co-operative Fairtrade goodie hampers make wonderful prizes for a fundraising raffle; so ask your store manager about donating one!
Campaigning is thirsty work, and our Co-operative Fairtrade teas, coffee and orange juice are delicious and refreshing. Ask your store manager about providing refreshments for Fairtrade meetings.