Fairtrade Fortnight 2024 marks a milestone in the history of the Fairtrade Foundation.
The foundation is 30 years old this year and it has supported millions of farmers, including grape growers.
Their hard work should be recognised as we pour a glass of Fairtrade wine. And not just during Fairtrade Fortnight, but at any time of year.
Ahead of Fairtrade Fortnight 2024 (underway until September 23) a spokesperson for Fairtrade said: “Since 1994, we’ve been standing with farmers for trade justice.
“In that time, we’ve worked with more than two million farmers and workers in 58 countries and generated over £1.7 billion in Fairtrade Premium.
Click: Where to buy Fairtrade wine and beers
“The Fairtrade Premium is an extra sum of money paid on top of the selling price that farmers and workers invest in business or community projects of their choice.”
The Co-op has been supporting Fairtrade since it began and is the largest seller of Fairtrade wine in the world.
In 2022, the retailer converted its entire South African range to Fairtrade.
The Co-op’s support and projects have given communities across South Africa, Argentina and Chile access to health care, education and clean water.
To mark Fairtrade Fortnight, the Co-op has offers (from Sept 4-24) on its Fairtrade wines.
They include the delicious Co-op Fairtrade Irresistible Organic Malbec (£7.50, down from £8.50) and Co-op Fairtrade Irresistible Sauvignon Blanc (£5.75, down from £6.75).
Bosman Family Vineyards is one of South Africa’s leading ethical producers.
It supports and empowers their local communities, across health, education and social welfare.
Their wines are in the Co-op, such as Fairtrade Shiraz (£7). They are also sold in Sainsbury (another huge supporter of Fairtrade).
Here’s two at Sainsbury: Taste the Difference Fairtrade Chenin Blanc and Taste the Difference Fairtrade Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot (both £8.50).
Corlea Fourie, is the head of winemaking and operations for Bosman.
She says: “Fairtrade has enabled our working family to grow, thrive, and pursue their aspirations, making a lasting impact on our community and operations.”
Find out more:
Visit the website fairtrade.org.uk and follow social media updates on Instagram @fairtradeuk or Fairtrade Foundation on Facebook.
First published in UK regional newspapers in September 2024.
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