David Hanson's News Stories
Hanson Backs Fairtrade Fortnight
Delyn MP David Hanson is backing Fairtrade Fortnight and has met with Fairtrade producers from the Zaytoun Olive Oil co-operative as well as the Managing Director of Divine Chocolate.
The Delyn MP went to a Westminster event, held in conjunction with the Co-operative Party and Fairtrade Foundation, which featured two Fairtrade producers from the Zaytoun Olive Oil co-operative as well as the managing director of Divine Chocolate. The producers spoke about the difference being a fair trade producer makes to their businesses.
Fairtrade Fortnight takes place from 27th February to 11th March 2012.
For 7.5 million farmers, workers and their families fair trade is a lifeline, ensuring that they are able to survive through difficult times and plan for a better future.
A recent report by the Fairtrade Foundation found that even in the current challenging economic climate there is a strong appetite for fair trade products. The report found that year on year retail sales of fair trade products increased by 12% in 2011, reaching £1.32bn.
Cocoa and sugar have both seen significant growth, with sales increasing by 34% and 21% respectively between 2010 and 2011. Bananas, coffee, and tea all also continued to show steady growth.
The UK is one of the world’s leading markets for fair trade products. The UK also boasts more fair trade products and consumer awareness than anywhere else in the world, with around 20% of the roast and ground coffee, and 20% of the bananas sold in the UK coming from fair trade producers.
David Hanson said:
“This event was a great opportunity for me to learn about how fair trade helps to transform the lives and communities of millions of people around the world. Whether it is buying fair trade food, drink or clothes, the choices that people in Flintshire make can help to massively change the lives of farmers and workers in developing countries.
“During Fairtrade Fortnight I hope that people will choose to play their part and opt for fair trade products whenever they can.”
ENDS
