How does Traidcraft work?

Traidcraft operates on the principle that by paying a fair price for the products we buy, and establishing long term relationships of partnership and co-operation, we can help poor communities to work their way out of poverty and create a more equitable world. Most of Traidcraft’s trading partners are community-based enterprises and associations of small holder farmers organised for the benefit of their producers and growers. Traidcraft can give producers access to credit which allows them to buy the raw materials they need. We also support training programmes which develop the skills and knowledge of our producers. Traidcraft is a Christian initiative which welcomes co-operation with all who share a concern for fairer trade.

What are the benefits of fair trade?

Traidcraft’s approach to trading means that, wherever possible, our products come from groups which:

• are organised primarily for the benefit of their members and the community
• pay fair wages and provide working conditions that are better than average for the locality
• encourage and enable workers’ participation in ownership and decision making.

Fair trade makes a real difference to the lives of the producers we work with. Improvements in health care, housing and education, along with safer water supplies and a better diet, are among the tangible benefits that fair trade can bring.