Fair trade - what's it all about?

Why Fairtrade?

Farmers all over the world, who grow bananas, coffee, cocoa and more, are often very poor indeed. They struggle to survive within a system of world trade that is not fair. Whilst big companies continue to make profits, the lives of millions of small-scale producers and workers the world over are getting worse. As market prices fall, many are forced into crippling debt and lose their land, homes and even their lives.

Through trading, campaigning and working with local communities, the Co-op aims to enable poor producers to take part in a fair, effective trade system and begin to overcome the significant problems they currently face. With Fairtrade, we can all make a difference by just drinking a glass of orange juice or eating a banana.

Why the Co-op?

The Co-op is proud to be the driving supermarket force behind Fairtrade. The Co-op has been the biggest food retail supporter of Fairtrade for many years. But the Co-op’s support does not stop at the doors to our shops. That’s because the Co-op is different; that difference lies not just in what they do – but in what they are. They’re not like other businesses – because they're a co-operative. It’s an altogether different business model. The Co-op was founded on a set of values & principles over 160 years ago – and Fairtrade very much reflects this ethos. The democratic structure means they are jointly owned and democratically run by members. Co-op members are customers, employees and people from the local community who, amongst a variety of things, actively campaign and build awareness of Fairtrade. The Co-op's values and principles are the foundations that support everything they do. From developing the first degradable plastic bag and banning animal testing on all co-op brand products to being instrumental in delivering the Fairtrade Towns initiative locally – They are a retailer with a conscience and we strive to work in the best interests of their members.

Why schools?

The Co-op fairtrade schools guide recognises the importance primary schools can play in the development of Fairtrade and is designed to help teachers and pupils gain an understanding of what Fairtrade is and how individually, and as a whole school, you can support it. Pupils are receptive to the ideals of Fairtrade and understand what is fundamentally right and wrong. They are the generation of the future who can be guided into ensuring a fairer world. Schools shape society. It is crucial that we build awareness of important global issues now to build a better future for everyone.  Fairtrade offers pupils the opportunity to see where they stand in the world and help them learn and develop as global citizens.
Fairtrade can be integrated into the demands of the National Curriculum and is an engaging learning topic for many subjects and skills.

Young girl in Malawi

It is not the kings and generals who make history, but the masses of the people.

Nelson Mandela