It's Fairtrade Fortnight, which celebrates the impact of Fairtrade and encourages more organisations to get involved in ensuring farmers in developing countries are paid a fair price for the goods they supply to the UK market, such as tea, coffee, chocolate, sugar and bananas. The scheme also supports the development of farmer and worker communities, aiming to improve living and working conditions and give farmers more control over their future.
Manchester and Salford were awarded Fairtrade city status in 2005.
Shops such as the Co-op and Oxfam are well known for selling Fairtrade products but there are many other places to buy Fairtrade.
Here’s a few ideas to get you started.
8th Day Co-op, Oxford Road
Located close to the Aquatic Centre, this shop has the largest selection of organic and natural vegetarian and vegan foods in the North West. It is committed to Fairtrade principles as well as organic and co-operative production. It is continually increasing its range of Fairtrade products and even sells Fairtrade rubber gloves.
If you’re in the mood for a spot of lunch, there’s a cafe selling vegetarian and vegan delights, which are made fresh on the premises.
Oklahoma, Northern Quarter
A quirky cafe where you can buy anything from birthday cards and unusual gifts to something out of the ordinary for your home. Amongst the goodies is a lovely cafe selling artisan, Fairtrade coffee, cakes and sandwiches.
Tower Coffee Shop, The Lowry, Salford Quays
If you fancy a break from bargain shopping, or need a place to warm up during a visit to Salford Quays, this coffee shop is for you. Located downstairs in the theatre it’s a great place to grab a cup of Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance certified Grumpy Mule coffee. The food is fresh and locally sourced wherever possible.
78 Steps, Salford
The Biospheric Project is an urban research and community food production hub in Salford. 78 steps away from the project lies Salford's first whole foods shop, where training and employment opportunities are provided for residents interested in the food business.
The shop sells fresh fruit and vegetables, speciality groceries and convenience items. What can’t be sourced locally is Fairtrade, including the bananas in their vegetable boxes.
Unicorn, Chorlton
Ethical principles are firmly at the heart of this supermarket, dictating the products for sale and business operations. Unicorn aims to trade primarily in products that follow the ethics of Fairtrade, and also sells organic, locally sourced produce.
Shopping here will give you an education in food and trade issues, ensuring that you leave with a real understanding of where your dinner came from.
And The Dish Ran Away with the Spoon, Didsbury
This cosy, Didsbury cafe uses local, Fairtrade, and organic ingredients to bake a wide range of cakes, breads and desserts. Grab a slice of toasted banana loaf for breakfast, or slow down for afternoon tea.
Inspire Cafe, Levenshulme
Inspire is a community hub in Levenshulme. Operating as a partnership of people committed to bringing about change in the area, it is a place to get involved in community activities, or to catch up with friends over a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee in the cafe.
Inspire is supporting Fairtrade fortnight with a range of goodies for sale.
So, choose Fairtrade for your next coffee break and do your bit to support the farmers who work hard to bring quality produce to your table.