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More UK shoppers buy Fairtrade products to help Africa

17 Aug '05

3 min read

London based online shopping company Marks & Spencer (M&S) announced that it new search in association with the Fairtrade Foundation, reveals that more than half the population would now buy more Fairtrade products to help communities in developing countries, following the increased awareness due to recent events and publicity surrounding Africa.

The research found that 55% of shoppers claim they are now more likely to buy Fairtrade goods, demonstrating that the UK public wants to play their part in building a better future for African countries. This compared with 47% of people who said that they are more likely to donate money to charities supporting projects in Africa and 13% who said they would write to their local MP.

The survey, conducted by Taylor Nelson Sofres (TNS), also asked for the public's views on how businesses can best help Africa. The majority, 83%, said businesses should improve long term trade links to benefit African producers rather than simply donating money to charitable causes (10%). 57% believe that British businesses are not yet doing enough to help African countries out of poverty.

Mike Barry, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Marks & Spencer commented: "The general public are recognising that one of the best ways to help developing countries, including those in Africa, work their way out of poverty is through improved trade links. People know that by purchasing Fairtrade products they are making a real differenceto growers and their communities.

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