Why bother with Fair trade

Fair trade seeks to transform the lives of disadvantaged producers in the developing world by enabling them to use their skills and resources to trade their way out of poverty.

It aims to challenge injustices in trading structures and practices that so often lead to the exploitation and marginalisation of those in the developing world.

Fair trade creates opportunities for poor producers and guarantees:
• fair trading practices, both in terms of payment and price
• extra income for community development
• equitable and safe working conditions
• a greater respect for the environment

Why choose Traidcraft?

There are obviously lots of fair trade products available - so what makes Traidcraft different?

Dedicated organisations like Traidcraft go beyond the standards demanded by the Fairtrade Mark:
• Traidcraft starts working with producers before they achieve Fairtrade status, helping them reach necessary standards
• Traidcraft invests in training and business development for producers
• Traidcraft commits to working with producers long-term
• Traidcraft lobbies governments to improve justice in trade
• Traidcraft develops new fair trade products.

Why buy from a Fair Trader?

Fair Traders, who sell fair trade in their local communities, are the backbone of all that Traidcraft does - almost half Traidcraft’s sales income is generated by Fair Traders. Buying from them, rather than a supermarket, means your money goes further.

The income from Fair Trader sales allows Traidcraft to:
• increase its range of products
• work with new producer groups
•negotiate with supermarkets and other retailers on behalf of producers
•work with the Fairtrade Foundation on new campaigns, like Fairtrade Schools and Churches.
Buying from a Fair Trader also provides you with a wider range of fair trade foods and crafts to choose from.

Established in 1979 as a Christian response to poverty, Traidcraft is the UK’s leading fair trade organisation. Its mission is to fight poverty through trade, practising and promoting approaches to trade that help poor people in developing countries transform their lives.

St George’s Church supports Traidcraft and its “Fair Trader” is Pam Dinneen.