Fairtrade in Ipswich

Being a Fairtrade town contributes to the Fairtrade Foundation's aim of tackling poverty and enabling producers from poor countries to get a better deal.

It is a means of raising the profile and sales of Fairtrade products so that more producers in developing countries can benefit from a fairer system of trade. Increasing the demand for Fairtrade products increases the possibility that more producers can be brought within the scope of Fairtrade.

A Fairtrade Town is one that has made a commitment to supporting Fairtrade and, through it, to support disadvantaged farmers and workers in developing countries. What this means on a practical level is that within the community there will be a significant level of awareness and understanding of the concept of Fairtrade.

To become a Fairtrade Town there are five goals that need to be met:

1. Ipswich Borough Council has passed a resolution supporting fairtrade and serves fairtrade coffee and tea at its meetings and in its offices.
2. Fairtrade products are readily available in the area's shops, cafes and catering establishments. See our Ipswich to Fairtrade Directory.
3. Fairtrade products are used by a range of local workplaces and community organisations within the town. Email us your details to fairtrade@ipswich.gov.uk to be included in our directory.
4. Attract media coverage and popular support for the campaign. We are developing a media library highlighting our actions over the last year.
5. A local Steering Group has been established to ensure that there is continued support and commitment and support for fairtrade within our town.