Fairtrade is a familiar term, but just 20 years ago it didn't mean much to most people. Now it is a global movement growing in strength and popularity.

Fairtrade is what it says it is - it guarantees a better deal for producers in the developing world.

During Fairtrade Fortnight in 2008, Ipswich achieved its aim and was granted Fairtrade Status.

The purpose of a Fairtrade Town is to contribute to the Fairtrade Foundation's aim of tackling poverty across the globe by enabling disadvantaged producers from poor countries to receive a better deal through encouraging support for the Fairtrade Mark.

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, cafés and catering establishments.
3. Fairtrade products are used by a range of local workplaces and community organisations within the town.
4. Attract media coverage and popular support for the campaign.
5. A local Steering Group has been established to ensure that there is continued support and commitment and support for fairtrade within our town. Email fairtradeipswich@gmail.com.

Useful websites

The Fairtrade Foundation

The Fairtrade Shop Ipswich