Starbucks' UK outlets to convert to Fairtrade coffee

by Gemma Charles, Marketing 26-Nov-08, 10:40

LONDON - Starbucks UK has agreed to sign up to the Fairtrade Foundation's certification scheme in a move that will see it serve only Fairtrade coffee by the end of 2009.

In a year's time 100% of the espresso coffee sold - both whole bean and espresso-based beverages - in Starbucks stores in the UK and Ireland will be both Starbucks' Shared Planet - the coffee giant's own existing ethical sourcing scheme - and Fairtrade certified.

The UK and Ireland announcement is part of a broader global commitment with the Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International (FLO), the body responsible for the development of global Fairtrade standards, which support small-scale coffee farmers.

The 100% Fairtrade Certified Espresso in the UK and Ireland forms part of a global plan that will mean Starbucks will become the largest purchaser of Fairtrade Certified coffee in the world.

Harriet Lamb, executive director of the Fairtrade Foundation UK, said: 'Farmers need Fairtrade now more than ever, and even though these are difficult economic times, people across the country are staying loyal to their ethical values and to Fairtrade.'

Starbucks chairman, president and chief executive Howard Schultz said: 'This announcement marks an important milestone in our long-term commitment to ethical sourcing and support for coffee farmers and their communities.'

‘Now, by linking our efforts with the global Fairtrade labelling movement, we will be able to have an even larger impact on small farmers particularly with the opening of Starbucks Farmer Support Centers in Ethiopia and Rwanda early next year.'