We are trying to raise the profile of Fairtrade in Preston and want to encourage businesses to convert to using Fairtrade products where possible, in particular coffee, tea and sugar.

Below is a case study of one firm in Preston that has taken this step.

BRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLP

Brabners Chaffe Street LLP a long established Firm of Lawyers based at offices in the Centre of the City of Preston resolved via its Management Board to effect various changes to its procedures etc. Those changes were to be made on the basis that the Firm believed that in discharge of its corporate responsibilities it should take specific steps to reduce its carbon footprint and recognize the need to promote Fairtrade issues via its purchasing contracts with its suppliers.

In relation to the reduction of the carbon footprint the Firm took various measures including extensive recycling of materials. This effectively reduced the production of waste at the premises by as much 70%.

In addition, the Firm determined to undertake a purchasing policy in which priority would be given to the purchase of Fairtrade goods. The Firm (Karen Massicotte) undertook a study with its suppliers to identify those products which would be available from Fairtrade producers. This includes items which were consumed on a regular basis. In particular, tea, coffee, fruit juices, biscuits, sweets, sugar. All of these could be provided via Fairtrade suppliers and therefore the Partners determined that in future only Fairtrade suppliers should be authorized to supply those consumables to the Firm. All existing stocks of non-Fairtrade goods were therefore run down and as and when they reduced they were replaced by Fairtrade products.

One particular significant area was the provision of Fairtrade coffee. It was recognised that before any coffees should be purchased from Fairtrade suppliers that staff should be allowed to select a particular brand. On that basis a tasting session was organized. Cups of instant coffee were made and there was a blind tasting at each of the kitchens within the building. Staff were then balloted on which of the coffees was their favourite. Via this democratic process a particular coffee was chosen and since that time that is the coffee which has been supplied and is the only coffee now provided by the Firm to its employees for their consumption.

At the present time those Fairtrade Suppliers include the Garden Tea Company and Fairly Goods. Otherwise the goods are purchased from local suppliers on the basis that if the goods bear the Fairtrade logo then they can be purchased.

In addition to Fairtrade the Firm supplies filtered water to all of its employees at the office via the Aqua-Aid Scheme. This Scheme operates on the basis that the water suppliers make a donation to Christian Aid.

Therefore as part of an overall attempt by the Firm to act in a much more corporate responsible way there have been significant changes. On the basis that Fairtrade is seen as an appropriate and worthwhile "cause to support" alongside the reduction of the carbon footprint and the support of the water aid charity the Firm believes that it has undertaken changes for the greater good of all. In effect the Firm has adopted the maxim "Think Global Act Local".

Brabners Chaffe Street LLP
7-8 Chapel Street
PRESTON
PR1 8AN

Tel: 01772 823921 Fax: 01772 563486

We are creating a business directory of all firms that have converted to using Fairtrade products.

So please tell us if you are already committed to Fairtrade, so we can add you to our list.
Contact us also if you would like more information about how to convert your workplace e.g. names of Fairtrade suppliers.
You may find the Wholesalers page useful for this.