Fairtrade is a term we hear often and can see signs of when shopping, but have you ever wondered what it actually means? Esquires Coffee is proud to serve 100% Fairtrade and organic coffee because we are supporting and showing appreciation to farmers and workers.
As we become more aware of the problems in the world, organisations like Fairtrade are becoming more important to consumers because they too want to support those who need it. In this article, we explore Fairtrade and explain who they are, what they do, and why they are such an incredible organisation.
What is Fairtrade?
The organisation, Fairtrade Foundation, was established back in 1992 and it has since become a global phenomenon. Fairtrade works with businesses, consumers and campaigners to provide farmers and workers with fair pay, better working conditions and, most importantly, empower them.
All Producers are Able to Enjoy a Secure and Sustainable Life
The organisations’ vision is to live in a world where all producers are able to enjoy a secure and sustainable life where they can fulfil their full potential and have a say in their future. To achieve this, their mission is to empower farmers and workers, help them to gain more control over their own lives, connect them with consumers, promote fairer trading conditions and tackle poverty.
How Does Fairtrade Work?
In order to meet the organisations’ vision, strict rules and regulations are in place to ensure all produce is fairly traded. To purchase Fairtrade produce, companies must pay a sustainable price so that the workers and farmers can be paid a fair wage and work in better conditions. Additionally, all Fairtrade crops are grown through sustainable methods, as genetically modified ones cannot be certified as such.
The most common Fairtrade products we can find are cocoa, coffee, bananas, tea, and sugar. In our previous blog, we explained why it is essential to live sustainably; take a look and get inspired!
What are the Fairtrade Standards?
The standards that Fairtrade set are there to protect and support small producers as well as agricultural workers. Here is an overview of the key objectives of the Fairtrade standards:
- Ensure that producers receive enough money to cover the average cost of producing sustainably.
- Provide a Fairtrade Premium which can then be invested in projects to improve social, economic and environmental development.
- Assist any producers with pre-financing if they need it.
- Provide producers with more control over the trading process and enable long-term trading partnerships.
- Ensure that both working and trading conditions are environmentally responsible as well as socially and economically fair.
What is the Impact of Fairtrade?
Perhaps the best way to demonstrate the fantastic work that Fairtrade do is to share some statistics. There are more than 1.66 million farmers and workers Fairtrade certified. And, in addition to this, in 73 countries, there are 1,411 Fairtrade certified organisations.
These figures clearly showcase how successful Fairtrade is and how the work they do is making a significant difference.
How You Can Get Involved with Fairtrade
There are plenty of ways you can get involved with Fairtrade, whether you are a consumer or business owner. When shopping, look out for the Fairtrade labels; that alone is a significant help.
Grab a Fairtrade Coffee in The Morning
Furthermore, when grabbing your coffee in the morning, buy from a Fairtrade coffee shop, like Esquires Coffee, and buy Fairtrade products when shopping in supermarkets.
Source Fairtrade Products From Numerous Suppliers
If you own a café or restaurant, you can source Fairtrade products from numerous suppliers. In our previous blog, we explored why sustainability is essential when owning a business.
Donate Money to The Fairtrade Foundation
Alternatively, you can donate money straight to the Fairtrade Foundation, or you can get involved in current campaigns and charity events.
Esquires Coffee is proud to be taking part in Fairtrade Fortnight 2020. The campaign is for two weeks, and it involves thousands of people, companies and groups across the UK joining together to share stories of those who grow all of the Fairtrade products. It will run from Monday the 24th of February through to Sunday the 8th of March 2020.
We hope that you now have a better understanding of what Fairtrade is and perhaps you have been inspired to get involved. If you would like to start a new business venture with a sustainable company that also works with Fairtrade, contact Esquires Coffee today.
We offer coffee franchise opportunities across the UK and the difference? Our coffee shops feel independent and unique whilst benefitting from buying power of a brand. If you would like to learn more about franchising and the coffee industry, follow us on social media!
Feature image credit: CC by Andrew Skudder (Go Bananas)
