Fair Assessment

Globally, where products are sourced is becoming more and more important to consumers and manufacturers alike. Fair trade products--which ensure ingredients sourced from economically disadvantaged locations are ethically acquired--are growing in popularity.

Globally, products with fair trade positioning have jumped over 900% since 2003. Confectionery items--specifically chocolate--and beverages, with coffee being most active, lead among global categories with fair trade positioning. In the U.S., there has also been significant growth in products with fair trade positioning--up 400% since 2003.

Categories are consistently active around the globe. This is driven by the locations where coffee and cocoa beans are grown, which tend to be in tropical areas with volatile political and economic landscapes. As consumers continue to become more interested in the ethical concerns behind the food and beverages they purchase, fair trade should continue to grow in upcoming months and years.