Stourport Co-op stores highlight the importance of Fairtrade

Midcounties Co-operative is marking Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs until March 12, by transforming their shop floors of their Stourport supermarkets into class rooms for school children to learn more about the cause.

The Co-op has been a long-time supporter of Fairtrade, which looks to improve life for underpaid farmers and food producers in developing countries.

In Stourport, they will host sampling sessions, treasure hunts and assemblies to teach Burlish Park Primary School pupils about the difference selling fairly traded products makes to Fairtrade producers.

Children who visit the Stourport or Franche Road supermarkets wearing a school uniform will also receive a free Fairtrade banana as part of the relaunch of Free Fruit Friday during Fairtrade Fortnight.

The supermarkets will also introduce their first ‘Fairtrade Shopping List’ recipe booklet on Wednesday, March 8 to tie into the event’s theme of ‘Take a Fairtrade Break’.

It includes offers on Fairtrade products and recipes to encourage shoppers to recreate their own dishes using fairly-sourced products, will be available in its Stourport and Franche Road supermarkets.

The Midcounties Co-operative’s members will also get the chance to sample its selection of Fairtrade products including wine, tea, coffee and chocolate at events taking place in the Stourport supermarket on Monday, March 6.

Bob Richens, Leadership Team Ambassador at The Midcounties Co-operative in Wyre Forest, said: “Supporting Fairtrade Fortnight is important to raise awareness that the food on our tables and the tea and coffee in our mugs comes from farmers and food producers across the world, all of which should be fairly paid and suitably treated.

“The Co-operative is the UK’s biggest supporter of Fairtrade products, and by welcoming students from Burlish Park Primary School we can help shape positive attitudes towards Fairtrade products, all while having a great time.”