We know you thought you were about to read about what a Fair Trader is but we think it would be best to start by telling you what a Fair Trader isn’t . We learned early on that using the words “home” and “party” struck fear into the hearts of even the most dedicated advocates for Fair Trade. So, let us be clear - we aren’t inviting you to be part of something that requires you to be a salesperson or ask your friends to buy stuff so you can get something free. No, no. If you are passionate about Fair Trade and the very practical difference that you know you can make and want to share that information with your friends, then read on!
What is a Fair Trader?
Simply put, a Fair Trader is an advocate for Fair Trade. While there are many informal ways to spread the word about Trade as One (which we highly encourage!), Fair Traders are individuals who specifically partner with Trade as One to host small events with their friends to discuss how our purchasing makes a difference and then showcase Fair Trade products. It is a tangible way to get involved in helping to break cycles of poverty. How do I get involved, you may be asking…it is time to Fair Trade Your Friends!
How Does it Work?
If you resonate with wanting to get more involved and you want to easily spread the word to your friends, simply sign up to become a Fair Trader and then schedule a Fair Trade Your Friends Event (just a fancy way of saying “invite some friends over, sample some Fair Trade chocolate and talk about how you can make a difference with your spending!”). We will ship you an Event Kit including products (what we call a mini live catalog) that will serve as representative samples for your friends to see the quality and variety of our products, instructions and order forms. The great news is that you don’t have to collect any payment. Instead, you email us the order information and we will send your friends a link to a shopping cart filled with the items they requested. We will ship their order directly to their address. After the event, you simply pack the products up and ship them back to Trade as One (and, there may be a little something in it for you too – you’ll just have to trust us on that).
What Products are in the Mini Live Catalog?
The mini live catalog includes 40 products spanning our product categories: jewelry, kids & sports, stationery, wear, bags and housewares. There is a spring/summer product set and a fall/winter product set, so if you have two events in a year, we will provide seasonal products that differ (hint, hint – plan two events).
Everyday Products
Our consumable products (coffee, tea, olive oil, chocolate, soap, lotion, body wash, rice, quinoa and sugar) are great items to introduce to your friends since they are products we consume everyday. These items are not included in the Mini Live Catalog, but we have put together discounted product bundles so that you may purchase these items to sample, share with your friends or use yourself. Learn more about Fair Trader Perks .
Connect on Facebook
Follow on Twitter