The Benefits of Fair Trade (For You)

Fair trade often highlights the benefits for the artisans who craft the products and their communities. While great, as a customer, you might wonder how the products are any better for you. It isn't just ethical production and values-based companies that make fair trade so great; it's about the quality product you are purchasing. Here are 5 benefits of shopping fair trade for you.

1. Handcrafted Products

Every item is crafted by hand using traditional techniques. Not only do the artisans earn a fair, living wage and continue to pass on skills, but you also get a high-quality product made to last. The hands of a real person carve into wood, guide the stitches, and paint the details. 

2. Unique Gifts

You can't walk into any big-box store and buy our products. When you shop fair trade, you are more likely to give those on your gift list something meaningful they don't already have. For your friends and family who treasure unique finds and handcrafted goods, we're your best friend.

3. Unbeatable Flavors

If you haven't tasted ethically farmed chocolate using real cocoa, you are missing out. Our chocolate bars, snack mixes, hot chocolates, coffee, and teas offer true flavors. Your purchase of global snacks supports small farmer co-ops, jobs for women facing significant barriers to work, and the use of sustainable and organic ingredients. They taste as good as you'll feel buying them.

4. Transparent Materials

Fair trade bags and clothing are made using organic cotton, recycled saris, or remnant fabrics. We carry both natural and sustainable materials so you can feel confident choosing your clothes. Know what your top and your baby's onesie are made of without having to worry. We list the materials of each clothing item online and are happy to answer any and all questions in store.

5. Easy To Shop Your Values

Fair trade makes it simple to shop your values, and at Latitudes, you can get it all in one place. We carry everything from snacks and jewelry to clothing and children's toys. All are ethically and sustainably crafted by artisans paid a fair wage. Just walk in or order online for handcrafted products, unique gifts, unbeatable flavors, and transparent materials. Whether you're shopping for our socks that give back to animal shelters or soap bars that fund a day of school for children, every order makes a difference.

Written by Marketing and Communications Manager, Emma Sue Larramore.