Despite the global recession, worldwide sales of Fairtrade products grew by an impressive 22% in 2008 as consumers spent an estimated €2.9bn on Fairtrade products globally. When companies such as Starbucks pledge to sell Fairtrade drinks, you know this means a lot to consumers.
Global sales have doubled for Fairtrade tea (112%), and as the products with the highest sales volumes, Fairtrade coffee sales increased 14% to 66,000 metric tonnes.
Fairtrade sales grew by at least 50% in seven countries, including Australia and New Zealand (72%), Canada (67%), Finland (57%), Germany (50%), Norway (73%) and Sweden (75%). The largest markets for Fairtrade products continued to experience strong growth, as sales of Fairtrade-certified products increased by 43% in the UK (and 10% in the US). Fairtrade products also gained popularity in a number of new markets, including eastern Europe, eastern Asia and South Africa.
“We’re very happy that consumers are supporting Fairtrade in ever-increasing numbers. These Fairtrade sales make a real difference to the farmers and workers I represent,” said Ruth Simba, coordinator of the African Fairtrade Network, the representative body of Fairtrade producers in Africa. “As the global recession hits us, the income and stability that Fairtrade brings is all the more important.”
In addition to being paid a price that covers the costs of sustainable production, producer organisations receive a Fairtrade Premium as income for community development projects. In 2008, the Fairtrade Premium contributed more than €12m to Fairtrade coffee farmers.
Harriet Lamb, executive director of the Fairtrade Foundation, welcomed record UK Fairtrade sales of over £700m, and said: “We’re delighted that the growth of 43% in Fairtrade sales keeps us on track with our plan to double the impact of Fairtrade by 2012. In the current global economic climate, farmers need Fairtrade more than ever, so it’s profoundly reassuring to know that globally, consumers are still wholeheartedly backing a better deal for farmers and workers around the world, enabling them to survive this crisis and continue investing in stronger businesses and a better life for their communities. And it makes sense for businesses to build long-term relations with producers on whom they depend while responding to public demand for Fairtrade.”
Claire Phoenix is managing editor of Beverage Innovation magazine.
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024