It All Began in 1979
Think back to 1979, what do you remember about it? It was definitely a memorable year, with Britain having its first female Prime Minister, Arsenal winning the FA cup and The Village People having a number one with YMCA! (It also happened to be the year in which I was born!) More importantly though, and the point of this article, 1979 was the year in which Traidcraft was established.
For 28 years, Traidcraft has been operating as both a trading company and a development charity, with the aim of 'fighting poverty through trade'. It has done this by creating lasting relationships with small-scale producers in developing countries and supporting people to trade out of poverty. Underpinning all its operations are the Christian principles of love, justice and service.
Of course, there is a wide awareness of the Fair Trade message as we see products in shops, supermarkets and restaurants. Many people now regularly buy Fair Trade tea and coffee but it need not stop at this. In the Autumn Traidcraft catalogue you will find a whole array of fantastic, quality products, from food and wine to fashion and home. Maybe next time you are buying a gift, why not give Traidcraft a try?
After 28 years Traidcraft is still a pioneering organisation. Every product you buy ensures that producers receive a fair price for their goods and it also ensures that relationships with the producers are sustained well into the future. I would encourage everyone to make fair trade their habit!
The new Traidcraft catalogue is out now! Copies are available from the back of St Mary's or The Parish Centre. Alternatively, see me for one.
Ella Holdsworth