36 years ago, a group of Traidcraft representatives formed The Fair Trade Shop. Their aim was to introduce food, beverages and craft items produced by people who were not exploited but received fair pay for their work and enough to support their communities and provide education. For those who continued, formed a company and opened a shop, this is still our passion. Although there have been many changes since those early days – not least the closure of Traidcraft – we continue to sell a huge range of products on this basis.

Sustainability is very important and many craft items are made from recycled materials. Growing tea, coffee and cocoa in this changing climate means planting trees and diversification is the only way they can continue to make a living. The fair-trade premium enables this to happen.

We are stocking up for Christmas. Please consider us when buying Christmas cards (supporting the work of Transform Trade, Amnesty International, the Soil Association and Somersham Ward, Ipswich Hospital), Advent Calendars from the Meaningful Chocolate Company and Divine Chocolate and other seasonal goodies. If you would like a talk to hear more about fair trade and the difference it makes, please contact us. Our website is: thefairtradeshopipswich.co.uk or by phoning the shop on 01473 288225. We are open Monday – Saturday 9.30-4.30.  If you are unable to get into the town centre please check out our online shop on the website.

The manager and volunteers would love to welcome you to our shop. We are in Upper Brook Street (next to Caffe Nero). We invite you to think about the impact you make on the world when you shop.