Bristol Fairtrade Business Awards

The entries are in for the first ever Fairtrade Business Awards; come and meet the winners at the Awards ceremony on Friday 9th March 12-2pm at Leigh Court. To book a place at the Fairtrade lunch, meet George Alagiah and network with other fair and ethical businesses, go to http://tiny.cc/l9mkm

There are multiple reasons to become a Fairtrade business. Consumer awareness has increased dramatically in recent years, from the sourcing of food to the condition of workers in developing countries. Businesses are now in the spotlight as consumers want to know that producers are not being exploited. Ethical consumption is currently growing at a rate nearly eight times faster than the economy as a whole.

Fairtrade sales have doubled year on year since 2003, and recognition of the Fairtrade Mark is higher than any other consumer mark at 70%. Offering Fairtrade products to your staff and customers is a great way to demonstrate that you are a caring business because it is has high recognition and consumer confidence.

Corporate behaviour is under intense scrutiny, with corporate policies now clearly posted on the internet. This makes it more important than ever for businesses to communicate their ethical policies effectively to their potential customers, and integrating Fairtrade into their CSR programmes by switching to Fairtrade purchasing is a highly effective way of doing this.

The winners of Fairtrade Business Awards will win recognition and distinction. Every business that meets the criteria for Bronze, Silver or Gold Award will receive a Fairtrade Business certificate, as well as an e-logo to use for their business, and the opportunity to progress to the next level.

The categories are:
1) Best Fairtrade Office
2) Best Fairtrade Retailer
3) Best Fairtrade Catering Outlet
4) Best Fairtrade Accommodation
5) There will also be an award, at the discretion of the judges, for the best overall Fairtrade business.