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South West Fairtrade Business Awards return to Bristol
Bristol is a hotbed of organisations that go the extra mile to put ethical trade at the heart of their business.
This commitment is recognised in the annual South West Fairtrade Business Awards that return for a sixth year in March, bigger than ever, with an additional category to find the region’s best Fairtrade product.
Entry is now open for companies that put ethics at the forefront of their working practises in a city that has held Fairtrade City status continually since 2005.
Previous winners at the South West Fairtrade Awards, held at the Bristol Cathedral. Photo by Jon Craig
“This is a really exciting time for Fairtrade in the South West,” says Danni Rochman, coordinator of Bristol Fairtrade Network, which runs the awards.
“The region is a hotbed for organisations going that extra mile to put ethical trade at the heart of their business.”
The awards are free to enter and aim to recognise the contribution that businesses make in support of ethical trading, by purchasing certified Fairtrade products for the workplace and raising awareness of ethical trade issues amongst their staff, customers and peers.
Organisations that meet the criteria stand to win bronze, silver or gold award certificates, e-logos, a year-long online listing and a free ticket to the ceremony.
Fairtrade awards by Bristol Blue Glass. Photo by Jon Craig
Winners of each category will receive a Bristol Blue Glass trophy.
Legal practice Lyons Davidson scooped the award for Best Fairtrade Business in 2017, while the University of Bristol and UWE Bristol were joint winners of Best Fairtrade University.
Lucy Gatward, marketing manager at ethical food retailer and multiple award-winner Better Food says that winning Fairtrade Business Awards has been a brilliant way of getting the word out about the company’s commitment to ethical retail.
“We know our customers choose to shop with us because of our values, and the award is a clear demonstration of what Better Food stands for,” she adds.
For the first time, the judging panel is seeking entrants for Best South West Fairtrade Product.
This is open to any company that makes a Fairtrade certified product and will be awarded to the applicant that makes best use of ethical ingredients and marketing to create a special or innovative item.
South West Fairtrade Business Awards at the Bristol Cathedral. Photo by Jon Craig
Other categories include: Best Office, Single and Multiple Retailer, Accommodation, University, Eatery and Advocate.
The awards ceremony will take place at Bristol Brewery School on Friday, March 9 and will mark the end of national Fairtrade Fortnight.
To find out more about the awards and how to enter, visit: www.bristolfairtrade.org.uk/fairtrade-business. Applications are open until midnight on Sunday, February 11.
Read more: Winners announced for SW Fairtrade business awards
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