Brands: GROUNDED, SCARBOROUGH FAIR

People are at the heart of Fairtrade. Before Fairtrade certification smallhold farmers (their farm size averaging 1.5 hectares) would typically be very poor, vulnerable and exploited. Being a Fairtrade certified farmer gives them back control and improves their position by guaranteeing them a minimum price, plus a development fund to invest in their community. This fund is used to build schools, hospitals and other vital facilities.  Through Fairtrade they also have access to training and technology which improves their coffee quality and yield.