How Fair Trade Stores Source Their Products
How We Source Our Products
When you shop at Latitudes, you never have to wonder if your purchase made a positive impact or if the artisan was paid fairly. With us, you already know it's true!
We often hear questions like: “How do you source your products?” or “How do you know they’re really fair trade?” Today, we’re pulling back the curtain.
What Is The Fair Trade Federation?
Latitudes is a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation (FTF). The FTF sets high standards through nine principles of fair trade and carefully vets artisan groups to ensure those standards are met. This gives us (and you!) peace of mind that every product we carry truly supports fair wages, safe working conditions, and cultural respect.
We seek out groups ourselves, but we also look to the FTF to discover new artisans whose products would be a great fit for our customers. Thanks to their network, there are real standards, accountability, and people on the ground making sure fair trade principles are honored.
How Are Fair Trade Products Made and Shipped?
Here’s what the process looks like:
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Planned production: Many artisan groups work with U.S.-based leadership and warehouses. Shops like ours place orders in advance, so artisans know what to make and how much material to use.
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Less waste: This system prevents overproduction, reduces waste, and ensures resources are used thoughtfully. Groups like Mayan Hands even calculate exactly how much material each artisan needs before production begins.
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Fair payment: Artisans are paid when the products are made, not when they sell in our store. This means they earn a reliable income right away, which helps keep families together, send children to school, and provide healthcare and stability.
- Efficient shipping: Products are shipped in bulk and stored until they’re ready to be distributed, cutting down on wasteful, constant shipments and creating a more sustainable system overall.
Do Fair Trade Shops Visit Artisans?
Yes! We love visiting artisan groups in person and do so when we can. These visits are a chance to connect, learn, and sometimes discover new products. But the most respectful way to support artisans is to order what they create, give them the time they need to make it, and pay them fairly.
Why It Matters
This sourcing process isn’t charity, it’s a transparent, sustainable system that builds real relationships and thriving communities. Every time you shop at Latitudes, you carry on a system of dignity, fair wages, and meaningful impact. Fair trade is creating change, not just providing temporary support.
Help us continue investing in these incredible communities and shop at Latitudes Fair Trade today. Get a little inspiration and check out our Indecisive Gift Guide!