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So what is Fairtrade?

Every time we shop we make choices that affect others, for better or worse. We depend on producers around the world who grow what we want; they rely on us to pay a price that gives them a decent living for their hard work. For many people in developing countries, selling basic commodities such as tea and coffee is their main livelihood. Yet these products are affected by extreme price fluctuations and trade barriers, which make the producers some of the most vulnerable in international trade.

The FAIRTRADE Mark on a product guarantees that the farmers and workers who produced it were paid a fair price and fair wages. This simple idea has caught imagination of UK consumers, and public awareness and sales of Fairtrade are soaring.

5 million smallholder farmers, workers and their families in developing countries benefit from the Fairtrade scheme. Getting a fair price for their crops or labours means they earn enough to feed, clothe and house their families and send their kids to school.

How can we help?

Buying fairly traded tea, coffee and other products is one of the simplest ways. Even a small purchase can make a difference; regular support helps producers work their way out of poverty.