Fairtrade Fortnight calls on residents to “Do it fair”

Fairtrade Fortnight is calling on everyone to make a difference by choosing products that create better conditions for farmers and workers across the world.

The special 14 days of awareness raising is held annually to help those in developing countries get a guaranteed minimum price for their produce. It also shines a light on community development, working conditions and sustainability.

People across North Ayrshire support the global movement by buying goods – like coffee, chocolate and fruit – that are stamped with the well-known green, black and blue Fairtrade symbol.

North Ayrshire Council works with North Ayrshire Fair Trade Zone Group, which is a community-based organisation dedicated to promoting activities locally and raising awareness of the movement.

North Ayrshire is officially recognised as a Fair Trade zone by the Fair Trade Foundation in recognition of the work that is done locally to promote goods - with Arran proudly being a Fairtrade island and Kilwinning a Fairtrade town.

Fairtrade Fortnight runs from 22 September 22 to 5 October and Arran Councillor Charles Currie said: “North Ayrshire became a Fair Trade Zone in 2014 and I am pleased to support this year’s Fair Trade Fortnight.

“The theme for this year is ‘Do It Fair’ and I would encourage our residents, businesses and visitors to the area to back the movement and by purchasing goods like tea from Fair Trade businesses to ensure that money is reaching the growers and producers who need it most.”

Arthur West, who is a member of the group, added: “We are delighted that our local Council continues to support the work of our group in raising awareness about the difference Fair Trade can make to supporting some of the poorest people on the planet.

“We are also pleased to note that a number of Councillors have attended our meetings on a regular basis down the years.”

Published: 17 September 2025