About Fairtrade The Fairtrade mark is a certification label awarded to products sourced from developing countries that meet internationally recognised standards of Fairtrade.
The mark was first used in March 2004 with just three companies; Clipper, Green & Black's and Cafedirect who were offering the UK's first official Fairtrade products. During the 1990's, several organisations, including Christian Aid, Oxfam, Traidcraft and the World Development Movement, created the Fairtrade Foundation which now is responsible for awarding the Fairtrade mark in the UK.
In recent years, the mark has really helped to raise awareness around the effects of inequitable trade and bring to light how we as consumers can positively make a difference to people's lives in economically less developed countries.
What does the Fairtrade mark guarantee?
The Fairtrade mark independently guarantees
- Decent wages for those who produce the goods
- Minimum health and safety standards
- A fair minimum price and a social premium for the community
- A longer term trading relationship
- A commitment to better environmental standards and sustainable production practices
- The right for workers to join trade unions
Through the goods we purchase in our local shops and restaurants, workplaces and schools we can help thousands of small farmers in poor countries build a better life for themselves, their families and their local communities.
Contact us
Southwark Council
Fairtrade project
Tel: 020 7525 7042
fairtrade@southwark.gov.uk
Town Hall
Peckham Road
London
SE5 8UB
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm |