Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is set to boost Fairtrade participation among local businesses.
The Fairtrade Foundation is an organisation dedicated to supporting the development of thriving farming and worker communities.
To underline its commitment the council is currently in the process of renewing and expanding the Fairtrade Zone status to cover the entire Borough but to achieve this it needs the support of local retailers, catering outlets and shoppers.
There are currently 18 Fairtrade businesses in the greater Banbridge area which have actively embraced the Fairtrade ethos by stocking and promoting Fairtrade goods. However we need even more support to show just how passionate we are about Fairtrade in the Borough.
Purchasing Fairtrade Products can make a huge difference to people’s lives. When you see the Fairtrade logo you know that the producers have been treated fairly by receiving steady prices, with access to trading and working rights along with having long-term stable trading relationships.
Over the next few weeks council representatives will be talking to local businesses about the benefits Fairtrade can have, both for themselves and the producers.
They will also be encouraging business owners and members of the public to sign up for the local Fairtrade Steering Group. Joining the group allows you to make a global difference locally while gaining experience and developing skills in public relations, event management and social media.