Fairtrade products can be readily found these days stacked alongside regular products in our supermarkets up and down the country. But when there is so much choice out there, why buy Fairtrade products such as coffee?

One of the main reasons why many supermarkets and independent coffee retailers have decided to support Fairtrade is because it benefits the farmers who actually produce the coffee beans. This does not in any way compromise on the quality of the coffee beans grown.

If coffee carries the Fairtrade Mark it guarantees that farmers receive a fairer price for their coffee bean harvest. The coffee is also environmentally sustainable. These words may sound like a mouthful, but basically means that the farming methods used preserve the valuable land and wildlife for future generations.

It is important to know that coffee workers are not being exploited for their labour and the direct trade systems cut out the need for unnecessary middlemen and allow the farmers to compete for themselves. This fairer trading system allows for a more level playing field and reinvestment in community development and healthcare for local workers.

Fairtrade allows the farmers to invest in their future and organic farming methods; the supporters and retailers of Fairtrade products are aware about the impact this can have in guaranteeing quality coffee and a fair price for the coffee producers. Many coffee retailers have now decided to stock these products, which are becoming ever important to coffee lovers everywhere.