Since then, Kowtow has been Fairtrade certified, working with Fairtrade certified partners throughout our supply chain. These partners range from the cotton farmers, to the mills that process the cotton, to the manufacturers that bring the garments to life. Thanks to being Fairtrade certified, we can trace every part of our process. We have retained close partnerships in India and visit them regularly.
But what does being Fairtrade certified really mean?
The Fairtrade movement aims to change unjust systems, ensuring farmers and workers are paid fairly while working to improve sustainability, governance, inequality and community development in surrounding communities. At the very core of Fairtrade’s beliefs is a respect for farmers, workers and the environment.
Put simply, each time you choose Fairtrade, you are directly choosing to end exploitation of farmers and workers.
As well as paying the Fairtrade minimum price for our organic cotton, we pay a Fairtrade Premium - an extra sum of money on top of the minimum price that is paid into a communal fund for the producers. Cooperatives can invest the Fairtrade Premium as they see fit in social, economic and environmental development for their organisations and communities. The farmers and workers decide together what investment is most important to them.
In the last year, our Fairtrade Premium provided a free ear testing camp for farmers at Anandhi Premium Projects. Hearing aid machines were then given to those who needed them. Water tanks were provided to six primary schools and 325 battery operated sprayers were distributed to farmers to spray crops with organic pesticides and fertilisers.
So, next time you notice the Fairtrade logo on your Kowtow garment label, you should feel good about contributing to a more sustainable and fairer way of life for our organic cotton producers, their families and the wider community.
