Ethics and Fairtrade while in a credit crisis
Dear Jonathan
Thanks for this very topical question.
Depending on the type of business you are running, or products you are selling - Fairtrade or ethically sourced may not cost any more. In terms of basics like coffee, tea and sugar - there are a lot of products to chose from and they are competitive on price. We have supplier information here and we are happy to help you find products if you are having difficulty.http://www.walescoop.com/fair-trade/fair-trade-for-business/
Whatever products your business is using, I don´t think you can ignore supply chain issues and more and more businesses are looking at responsible sourcing. Andy Middleton of the TYF hotel in St Davids made a really interesting point at a Sustainable Tourism conference earlier this year, he says that if he can´t afford to do business responsibly he feels he shouldn´t be doing it (I think 1% o profits go to charity).
In the economic climate, you may need to stand out even more from the competition and ethically sourced products can help you do this and strengthen your brand. You may save costs elsewhere, for instance, since Tate and Lyle switched their retail sugar range to Fairtrade certified, they have experienced not just good sales but an increased recruitment pool. Ultimately the cost analysis of using your chosen product should demonstrate it brings competitive advantages beyond the initial outlay.
For the Fairtrade farmers themselves, they are often hit hardest by economic downturns and increased living costs. I don´t think it´s exagerating to say some will be choosing whether to eat or send their children to school.
Ultimately it´s your choice and you need the right ´ethical mix´ for your business.
I would like to know what others think on this - if it´s a problem for them continuing to support Fair Trade or other, such as organic? Sales of Fairtrade certified goods do not seem to be declining.
Thanks
Elizabeth
