Tag: fairtrade

Fairtrade boosts support for cocoa farmers amid continuing market uncertainty

Stuart Mitchell

Fairtrade cocoa farmers and cooperatives are set to benefit from increased premiums and a new safety net as they navigate the ‘perfect storm’ of challenges, including climate change, volatile markets, and rising costs, according to an announcement made today by Fairtrade International.   The new Fairtrade Minimum Price increases the safety net by 45% dependent on country of production, with additional hikes in the Fairtrade Premium paid to farmers and the differential to organic producers. The new payments, which will go into effect in 2026, come after higher minimum prices for most cocoa-producing countries were announced earlier this year. Special arrangements were also put in place for Côte d’Ivoire and…

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Fairtrade calls for action against sexual violence on Human Rights Day

Stuart Mitchell

Last month on Human Rights Day, Fairtrade International is calling on our partners to take a stand against sexual violence and harassment and join the “Silence does not protect” campaign. Fairtrade believes that ensuring a safe working environment is everyone’s responsibility. However, according to estimates published by the World Health Organization, globally about 1 in 3 of women worldwide have been subjected to either physical and/or sexual  violence in their lifetime. The campaign, led by the Fairtrade producer network Latin American and Caribbean Network of Fair Trade Small Producers and…

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Waitrose Fairtrade Bananas come out as My Waitrose customers’ favourite product of 2025

Stuart Mitchell

Waitrose has released its annual review of loyalty scheme ‘My Waitrose’ data with customers in a ‘Year in Review’, highlighting brand preference, popular product lines, and evolving customer dining habits, with a clear enthusiasm for the free coffee offering. Nathan Ansell, Chief Customer Officer at Waitrose, said: “We’re really proud of the ‘My Waitrose’ loyalty scheme – being able to give our customers exciting perks including our new ‘Little Treats’ vouchers and it’s only getting better. With customers continuing to enjoy free coffee and Essential Waitrose crowned their favourite brand,…

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Fairtrade calls for cocoa industry to invest in co-operatives to boost farmer resilience amid market volatility

Stuart Mitchell

As 2025 draws to a close, leading cocoa brands and suppliers face a decisive moment in shaping the future of sustainable supply chains. As many are shifting their strategy in light of upcoming regulations, supply and price volatility, Fairtrade calls on them to ensure their purchasing practices and programme investments put cooperatives at the front and centre.  Strong, member-led co-operatives are crucial to drive sustainable, resilient livelihoods for cocoa farmers beyond the scope or duration of specific interventions, but they can only unlock their transformative potential if they’re backed by…

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Change happens often; transformation doesn’t. Fairtrade Standards are evolving to support farmers, workers, and businesses thrive in a rapidly changing world

Stuart Mitchell

From climate change and widening social inequalities, to rising costs and an increasingly complex regulatory environment, farmers, workers, and businesses  are facing a complex range of challenges. Fairtrade International recognises that responding to these evolving needs requires innovative approaches and stronger support systems. Tapping into the organisation’s decades long experience of supporting certified organisations to thrive and achieve their goals, Fairtrade is excited to announce that its standards are evolving to make them more effective, while remaining practical to implement and firmly grounded in its core principles and values. The…

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