Oxford renews its fairtrade status

This is an important recognition of our support for Fairtrade and the work the council has done with partners and communities in the city to take it further. On 25 April at 6pm, the official certificate will be presented to the Fair Trade Coalition meeting at the Town Hall where there will be a photo opportunity.

Oxford was first awarded the status of Fairtrade city in 2004 with the achievement of five qualifying goals, such as a wide availability of Fairtrade products in local shops and catering outlets, high levels of support from local people, businesses, the council, faith groups and schools. The process of accreditation has to be completed every two years.

Valerie Johnson, Policy and Partnership Team Leader at Oxford City Council said: “We are delighted and proud that Oxford continues to be a Fairtrade city, contributing to tackling poverty in poor countries through better deals for farmers. We have had the support of partners and communities in town and that has helped us promote Fairtrade, engaging with more and more networks and groups, every year”.

Fairtrade helps small-scale farmers ensure they earn stable incomes and have long-term contracts with companies. In addition, they earn the Fairtrade Premium, which they invest as the farmer-owned co-operative democratically chooses, in projects that will benefit their business or community.

Adam Gardner, Communities Campaigns Manager at the Fairtrade Foundation, said: “We’re so pleased that Oxford has renewed their Fairtrade status and laid out clear exciting goals to take Fairtrade further. Thanks to the ongoing support of the public and campaigners, an increasing number of farmers in developing countries are now selling their products on Fairtrade terms, bringing them a stable income, and the chance to trade their way out of poverty.”

The FAIRTRADE Mark independently certifies that products meet economic, social and environmental standards. As such, it is the most widely recognised ethical mark worldwide.

For more information about the FAIRTRADE Mark and how to apply for Fairtrade status, visit the Fairtrade website.

To get involved in the Fairtrade campaign in Oxford visit the Oxford Fairtrade website.