Cheshire West and Chester supports Fairtrade Fortnight 2026

Residents across Cheshire West and Chester are being encouraged to support fairer pay for farmers and workers around the world as the borough marks Fairtrade Fortnight 2026.

Running from 21st September to 4th October, Fairtrade Fortnight is the annual campaign organised by the Fairtrade Foundation to raise awareness of the people behind many of the products we buy every day and highlight the importance of fairer trade. This year's campaign focuses on one simple message: everyone deserves fair pay.

As a proud Fairtrade Community, Cheshire West and Chester is joining communities, schools, businesses and campaigners across the UK in supporting the campaign and encouraging residents to look for the FAIRTRADE Mark when shopping.

Fairtrade helps farmers and workers secure fairer pay, build stronger livelihoods and invest in their communities. The campaign highlights the challenges many producers continue to face despite supplying products enjoyed around the world, including tea, coffee, chocolate, bananas and flowers.

This year's campaign also shines a light on people such as Dora Atiiga, a cocoa farmer and founder of a school in Ghana. After taking part in Fairtrade leadership training, Dora started teaching children in her living room. Her initiative has since grown into a registered school supporting around 170 pupils in her community.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Louise Gittins, said:

"Fairtrade Fortnight is an opportunity for all of us to think about where the products we buy come from and the people behind them.

"The theme of fair pay reminds us that everyone deserves the chance to earn enough to support themselves and their families. By choosing Fairtrade products when we can, we can help support farmers and workers to build brighter futures and stronger communities.

"We're proud that Cheshire West and Chester is a Fairtrade Community and I encourage residents, businesses, schools and community groups to get involved during Fairtrade Fortnight."

Residents can support the campaign by choosing Fairtrade products, talking to family and friends about Fairtrade, attending local events and learning more about the impact that fairer trade can have on communities around the world.

For more information about Fairtrade Fortnight visit the Fairtrade Foundation website.