Article 13's Fairtrade Fortnight 2008 – 25 February to 9 March

Once again, the Article 13 team is taking action in support of Fairtrade Fortnight. As a company, we already choose fair trade for our caffeine fixes and other standard grocery needs. As individuals outside the office, we are not always so diligent. So, this Fairtrade Fortnight, we have pledged to make the fair trade choice a conscious one each time we walk down the aisles of our local supermarkets or add items to our virtual shopping baskets.

We advocate the fair trade choice for two reasons. Firstly, we believe it makes a positive difference to millions of people in poverty across the developing world. Fair trade products guarantee a minimum price which covers the cost of production, as well as an extra premium for community investment. Secondly, as increasing numbers of people turn to fair trade, governments will take more notice and take concrete steps to introduce just global trading rules.

Business is a key player in this movement. Article 13 has successfully implemented a purchasing policy favouring fair trade products. Internally the fair trade choice has become standard business practice, embraced and enjoyed by staff across the business. Externally, in the workshops and training courses we run as well as in our interaction with stakeholders, the journey to achieve the demanding target we have set ourselves in 2008 is well underway.

We encourage you, as a valued member of our network, to take action this Fairtrade Fortnight. It might be as straightforward as buying a fair trade coffee or chocolate bar in your next break. Or it might require some logistical arrangements, such as arranging a fair trade morning tea with your colleagues. No matter what it is, you will be helping to bring a fairer deal to farmers and producers worldwide.

Useful links:

• www.fairtade.org – ideas, resources and an online shop to help you plan for Fairtrade Fortnight 2008.
• www.ethicalsuperstore.com – your one stop shop for ethical gifts, eco-friendly gadgets, fair trade and organic groceries.
• www.traidcraftshop.co.uk – the widest range of fair trade products in the UK

Article 13, the leading corporate social responsibility, business sustainability and governance consultancy, is a signatory of the UNGC and actively upholds its ten principles related to human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption.

Article 13
71a The Grove
London
W5 5LL

We are strategic advisors on risk associated with business responsibility. Typically in the areas of governance, corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development.

We provide an independent perspective - a 'third eye' - that challenges the robustness and fitness of your company's ability to deliver against future uncertainties.

This release was published on openPR.