Fairtrade

What is it? What does it mean?

Look in your kitchen cupboards and you'll probably stumble across the Fairtrade logo, but what does it actually mean?

Simply put Fairtrade endeavour to change the way trade works through better prices, decent working conditions and a fair deal for farmers and workers in developing countries.

“We have a vision: a world in which all producers can enjoy secure and sustainable livelihoods, fulfil their potential and decide on their future”

— Fairtrade Foundation

The way in which this is carried out is through setting Fairtrade standards socially, economically, and environmentally. These administer to the supply chain; companies, the farmers and workers. Click here to read more from the Fairtrade Foundation.

Looking back to 10 years ago in our industry, Fairtrade garments were really limited, almost non-existent and definitely nothing that combined fashion with corporate clothing!

Since then, the corporate clothing brands have begun to take on their Social Responsibility, resulting in a much wider range of choices.

And whether your business is large or small, you can do your part to help improve the lives of the farmers and workers who produce the garments you wear and create a sustainable supply chain. Choosing Fairtrade demonstrates your ethical commitment to your customers and has a positive impact on the producers of the commodities you work with.

Looking ahead to the next 10 years of corporate clothing, I can easily imagine that the market will be dominated by ethical, Fairtrade suppliers as buyers become better educated and demand to know more about the source of their garments.

Next time you’re looking to source branded clothing or corporate Workwear, don’t dismiss Fairtrade but take a look and see what’s on offer, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

And if you’re wondering what’s the difference between Fairtrade, Organic , Fair Wear and Environmentally Friendly garments, keep your eye out for my next update where I’ll look into Organic Cotton in more detail.

In the meantime, I’m going to enjoy my Fairtrade cuppa :)