Have you ever bought something with a Fairtrade label and wondered what it means? Most consumers are aware that Fairtrade products are likely to be a good option, but they may not completely understand why. Without any background knowledge, food labels and certifications can be a bit confusing. Currently, there are many Fairtrade products, ranging from coffee beans, chocolate bars, tea, and flowers to fresh produce available.
According to a report by Fairtrade Australia and New Zealand (2023), the Fairtrade market in Australia has grown by over 20% annually over the past five years. In 2022, Australian consumers spent over $364 million on Fairtrade-certified products. This growth reflects a broader trend of Australians prioritising ethical consumption and sustainability in their purchasing decisions.
The term “Fairtrade” is well-known around the world. When you buy Fairtrade certified products, you are directly supporting the farmers and workers who produced them. Fairtrade certification ensures that the product was made safely and ethically and meets internationally agreed Fairtrade social, economic, and environmental standards. Fairtrade empowers both farmers and workers to thrive, especially when global market conditions are difficult, and invests in strengthening their businesses and the communities around them.
Today, more than six million people from 66 countries—farmers, producers, workers, and their families benefit from the unique and independent Fairtrade organisation. Fairtrade aims to empower farmers and workers in developing nations by providing them with fairer pricing, better working conditions, and favourable trading terms.
We’ve listed some top Fairtrade-certified brands to choose from. So, next time when you are out shopping, look for the Fairtrade Mark.
Sprout
Sprout has spent over 20 years building a better corporate coffee solution to bring value to your business.
Sprout sources coffee and tea from farms that uphold the highest standards in quality, environmental sustainability, and ethical practices throughout their growing, harvesting, and processing methods.
To minimise waste, Sprout prioritises reusing packaging by offering reusable coffee tins, and recycling any remaining cardboard and plastic materials.
Republica
Republica Organic sources ethically produced products and believes buying Fairtrade certified goods supports the workers and communities involved in sustainable production and the environment.
They are committed to paying a fair price to the farmers in the Third World, to support their basic necessities like education and health care.
Grinders
Grinders is Australia’s largest branded ‘Fairtrade’ green bean roaster, committed to supporting the farmers and coffee-growing communities, to create a sustainable future for the coffee industry.
They believe buying ethically sourced products provides farmers and workers with practical and technical support to grow their businesses and support their local communities.
Grinders coffee products, like CREMA and Rich Espresso Coffee Beans, are grown in certified organic plantations free of chemical additives.
Jasper
Jasper is dedicated to helping revitalise sustainable farming and give back to the communities around the globe through Fairtrade.
They purchase coffee from over 17 nations throughout the world and are proud of their ability to make a major difference and have a positive impact on the environment.
When you buy a Fairtrade certified bag of beans sourced from Jasper, like instant coffee, drinking chocolate, or organic sugar sticks, you’re also giving back to the community.
Zoetic
Zoetic is dedicated to providing exceptional, ethically sourced, and environmentally friendly tea products. Established with a vision to blend premium quality with sustainable practices, Zoetic Teas stands out for its commitment to organic and Fairtrade certifications.
All Zoetic teas are Organic certified, ensuring they are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
These Fairtrade-certified teas reflect Zoetic commitment to quality and ethical practices, offering consumers premium products while supporting fair trade and sustainability.
So, if you believe in equality for farmers and workers, and like the idea of sustainability and environmental protection, consider buying Fairtrade certified products to support the cause. When you buy Fairtrade coffee, you’re putting a small amount of your money back into the community.
A small change in your purchasing habits can significantly impact both the environment and the lives of farmers. Swapping to Fairtrade-certified products for your daily needs is an easy way to start making a difference.
Many Fairtrade businesses donate a portion of their profits to social development initiatives that help local communities with housing, education, and healthcare. COS is honoured to support Fairtrade, and our customers are proud to be a part of a business dedicated to a good cause, knowing their contributions are making a difference.
