MEP Supports Fairtrade Success

12.06.08pm GMT Fri 12th Mar 2004

Bill Newton Dunn, MEP for the East Midlands, is calling on consumers to back a winner with the Fairtrade campaign by buying Fairtrade goods whenever possible. In the second week of 'Fairtrade Fortnight', the Lib Dem Euro-MP said, "Fairtrade should be supported".

In 1994 the retail value of Fairtrade products was £2.75 million. Current sales are estimated to be running at more than £100 million.

"The rise in sales has been astounding. This is great news for those of us who have long supported the campaign for better prices for producers, and better pay and conditions for workers in the developing world", said Mr Newton Dunn

"When buying a Fairtrade product, not only are you assured of a quality purchase but you are contributing to a better life for producers and workers. Consumers are the driving force behind business - so we have the power to send a clear message by diverting our spending to Fairtrade goods. "

Large high street chains, such as Starbucks and Costa Coffee, have already responded to this growing demand, by giving their customers the choice of Fairtrade coffee in their cafés.

"Customers now want guarantees that their shopping has not been at the cost of exploiting less fortunate people - put quite simply, they want a fair deal", said Mr Newton Dunn.

A MORI poll in May last year showed that 25% of people in the UK now recognise the FAIRTRADE Mark and over a third understand its true meaning. According to their website, Fairtrade ground coffee now has more than 14% of the UK ground coffee market, and highlights the success of the campaign for Fairtrade.

"This success will show large international companies that Fairtrade is here to stay. I look forward to seeing this campaign go from strength to strength over the next ten years", said Mr Newton Dunn.

ENDS

Notes: Celebrating its 10th birthday this year the FAIRTRADE Mark has organised a multitude of events across the UK in a 'Fairtrade Fortnight', to highlight the inequality of international trade, and to promote the fundamental issues behind the FAIRTRADE Mark to the everyday shopper. For further information, visit the Fair Trade website: www.fairtrade.org.uk