Happy Fair Trade Fortnight!

I’ll be honest, I’ve been a bit slow on the uptake this year, but it’s happening NOW and I’d encourage you to get involved!

There are all kinds of events going on around the country, so there are lots of ways to get involved. If you’re not sure what the Fair Trade movement is all about, you might like to read some of my previous posts, like 4 Myths about Fair Trade or Thoughtful Shopping.

I’ve been enjoying a few Fair Trade products lately.

First, let me share with you the beautiful re-brand of Braintree Clothing, now Thought. I have been a big fan for years, but what is really exciting is that recently it seems that they have more and more to offer. I’m finding that I really can buy almost all my clothes Fair Trade now, whereas there used to be items that I just couldn’t find. Lately, I saved up for this beautiful throw, which I love, and I’ve just ordered a new coat too.

One of the most common complaints people have about Fair Trade clothing is the pricing, but here are a few responses to that which are worth considering:

-There is a cost to cheap ‘Fast Fashion’.  It is just other people who bear that cost. It is no exaggeration  that many people are working in unsafe conditions for unfair pay and working hours. Some of them are children. Many cannot afford to send their children to school. Is it really worth it?

-Fair Trade clothing is not as expensive as you may think. Many prices are actually pretty equivalent to some high street fashion stores.

-Generally with Fair Trade clothing you are getting high quality design and materials. Often they are handmade.

-Buying Fair Trade can mean changing your shopping habits slightly to buying less and choosing products carefully and thoughtfully.

-Sometimes you can supplement your Fair Trade purchases with second-hand purchases.

-Fair Trade products are often made in a way that is more environmentally friendly, so you are also paying for the sustainability and a greener future.

Another brand that we have recently discovered is Grumpy Mule coffee, which as a coffee fan, I cannot praise enough!

We also love Eswatini Kitchen and their delicious curry sauces and jams.

Whatever your thoughts on Fair Trade, why not try one product this fortnight and see what you think? Even if it is just a bottle of Fair Trade wine or a bar of Fair Trade chocolate from your local supermarket, it will be a choice that will have an impact on someone somewhere in the world.