Supporting Fair Trade...
Published April 2008
Having started 2008 on a rather gloomy note, what with the rise of interest rates and the prospect of an economic slump, it was surprising, yet reassuring, to see that the levels of ‘fast fashion’ purchasing seem to have levied off. The discount fashion market has slowly been declining for the first time in a decade.
Conversely, higher priced retailers have seen sales increase by 4% (Connie Tran, City AM, Feb2008). This has been a welcome response to hundreds of independent, organic, fair trade and eco-friendly shops and sites who are pleased and relieved to hear that the ‘fast fashion’ bubble may have burst.
 With this in mind, it’s important to carry on supporting local independent retailers, spreading the ‘fair trade’ word and encouraging more resourceful production.
Fair Trade Fortnight in 2008 saw sales of fair trade goods rise to £493 million (www.fairtrade.org.uk  ). This is most encouraging, and hopefully we’ll see 2009 sales go even higher.
On 10th May 2008 there will be celebrations around the world to encourage World Fair Trade Day so look out for events and activities that’ll be taking place in your area that weekend and support your local traders by buying locally sourced produce and fair trade gifts.
Fair trade is not just limited to chocolate, tea and bananas, but can be associated with all products. However fresh produce areas of fair trade have received more publicity and thus more sales than other sectors.
Indeed in the UK, fresh fair trade produce makes up 52% of the total fair trade market (www.talkingretail.com ). As well as buying fair trade fresh produce, why not look for companies that use recycled and natural materials too? It’s amazing what one can recycle and re-use to create something new and original.
Supporting smaller boutiques is incredibly important so perhaps try, even if it just once a week, to support your local florist, butcher and / or fishmonger. It’s vital we encourage young entrepreneurs and do not to succumb to the corporate world. Shop at boutiques, both on the high street and online and you’ll receive a more personable service, as well as a unique and individual gift. And who really wants to receive a gift that was made in a sweat shop?
By Claire Watt-Smith of BoBelle , home to fair trade fashion, babywear and gifts.
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