Fairtrade

Barry is proud to celebrate 11 years as a Fairtrade Town. Since achieving Fairtrade status in 2015, Barry Town Council, local organisations, volunteers, schools, businesses and residents have worked together to support fairer trade, ethical shopping and sustainable communities and includes increasing the number of local businesses who promote Fairtrade products, engaging more with local community organisations and the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act.

Fairtrade status is agreed by the Fairtrade Foundation.

As an independent organisation who license more than 5000 products to show that disadvantaged workers are getting a fair deal from selling these products.  

Fairtrade helps ensure that farmers and producers around the world receive fair prices for their products, work in safe conditions and can invest in their communities. Barry has remained committed to these values for more than a decade.

Bringing Fairtrade to the Community

Over the years, Barry Town Council has promoted Fairtrade through a wide range of community events and activities. Family Fun Days have included Fairtrade-themed games, learning activities, community stalls and sports challenges, helping children and families understand the importance of fair pay, ethical trade and sustainability.

Every year, Barry supports Fairtrade Fortnight by sharing information through:

• community events,
• displays,
• website articles and
• social media campaigns.

These activities encourage residents to choose Fairtrade products and learn more about the challenges faced by farming communities around the world.

Working with Schools and Local Groups

Barry Town Council continues to work closely with schools, youth groups and community organisations to spread awareness of Fairtrade. Through educational activities, campaigns and community partnerships, young people are encouraged to think about how their choices can make a positive difference globally.

The Council also encourages local businesses and organisations to support Fairtrade products and ethical purchasing wherever possible

Celebrating a Decade of Fairtrade

In 2025, Barry marked 10 years as a Fairtrade Town with a special Fairtrade Coffee Morning hosted by the Mayor at Barry Town Hall. Residents enjoyed Fairtrade tea, coffee and food while learning more about ethical shopping and the impact Fairtrade has on communities around the world.

Fairtrade and Sustainability

Barry’s Fairtrade work is closely linked to environmental responsibility. Campaigns have highlighted how climate change affects farming communities and have encouraged sustainable farming methods, biodiversity protection and responsible consumer choices.

By promoting Fairtrade, Barry is helping to support both people and the planet.

Looking Ahead

As Barry celebrates 11 years of Fairtrade Town status in 2026, the commitment continues. The Council’s Globally Responsible Committee will keep supporting Fairtrade through community events, school projects, awareness campaigns and partnerships with local organisations and businesses.

Future plans include:

• More Fairtrade events and coffee mornings
• Activities for schools and young people
• Fairtrade markets and community stalls
• Sustainability and biodiversity projects
• Public awareness campaigns across the town
• Encouraging more businesses to use Fairtrade products

Thank You, Barry

Maintaining Fairtrade Town status for 11 years is a fantastic achievement. Thank you to everyone who has supported Fairtrade in Barry – residents, schools, businesses, community groups and volunteers. Together, we continue to promote fairness, sustainability and support for farming communities around the world.