The Fair Trade Federation (FTF) is an association of fair trade wholesalers, retailers, and producers whose members are committed to providing fair wages and good employment opportunities to economically disadvantaged artisans and farmers worldwide. Basically what this means is that producers receive a fair wage when they are paid fairly for their products. This also means that workers are paid at least that country’s minimum wage. Paying fair wages does not necessarily mean that products cost the consumer more. Fair trade organizations bypass exploitative middle people and work directly with the producers, they are able to cut costs and return a greater percentage of the retail price to the producers.

FTF directly links low-income producers with consumer markets and educates consumers about the importance of purchasing fairly traded precuts which support living wages an age and healthy conditions for workers in the world.

FTF also acts as a clearinghouse for information on fair trade and provides resources and networking opportunities for its members. By adhering to social criteria and environmental principles, Fair Trade Organizations, such as Ten Thousand Villages, Equal Exchange, and SEERV, provide a more equitable and sustainable system of production and trade that benefits people and their communities.

The Boise Co-op is proud to carry the following Fair Trade Products:

• Divine Chocolate in four flavors
• Equal Exchange chocolate bars in three flavors, cocoa powder, and coffee.