News | Eighteen Rabbit Fair Trade

News

Giving back at Christmas

by Andrew Williams | December 14, 2013 | 0 Comments

It's been a great year at Eighteen Rabbit, and we want to thank everyone for their support during 2013. We've tried to reward our loyal online customers during the year by offering discounts and special offers via our newsletter (sign up here), our Facebook page or on Twitter. It's always nice to pick up a bargain!

For Christmas we wanted to do something a bit different. That's why, instead of offering discounts or giveaways in the run up to the big day, we're going to donate 10% of the value of all of our online sales to Oxfam to help their fight against poverty. We'll make a note on each order of how much we'll be giving on your behalf. 

It's nice to get something for nothing - but how much nicer to know you're making a real difference with each purchase you make? 

Thank you from all of us at Eighteen Rabbit, and a very happy Christmas to you and your nearest and dearest. 

Tagged: Christmas, fair trade, fairtrade, oxfam

Can you have a fair trade "Black Friday?"

by Andrew Williams | November 26, 2013 | 0 Comments

"Black Friday" is one of those strange American traditions which is gradually seeping into the UK (they'll have us celebrating Independence Day next!). Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving, which falls on the fourth Thursday of November. In the US it's a feeding frenzy of 5am openings, crazy deals, mad consumerism and the start of the Christmas rush.

Doesn't sound like there would be a lot in common with the ethics and ideals of fair trade, does it? We try to run our business in a way that encourages our customers to think about the people behind their purchases, and a mad supermarket sweep doesn't quite fit with that approach. Nevertheless, as a retailer we have to see Black Friday as an opportunity to spread our message that fair trade is a better way of doing business. 

We are always clear to our customers that we are not a charity - we are not here with a begging bowl looking for donations. We are simply a platform that allows incredibly talented artists, producers and creatives from around the world to sell their products at a price that makes sense for them. The producers we represent aren't necessarily poor souls who need our help - they're entrepreneurs, business people, the future of their nations. They don't want a free pass - they just want a level playing field. 

By choosing fair trade products this Christmas you can help make life fairer and more equitable for people around the world. Better than another electric toothbrush, right?!

 

Tagged: Black Friday, Christmas, eighteen rabbit, fair trade, fairtrade, why poverty

Mary the fair trade Christmas Gnome!

by Andrew Williams | November 25, 2013 | 0 Comments

Meet Mary - the latest addition to our fair trade gnome family. Her pal Norman has packed his bag for the winter and Mary will be taking is place during the festive season. Made in Vietnam, Mary is just one of our range of amazing ceramics made in the far east in fair trade factories which guarantee workers rights, pay and conditions. A perfect addition to any Christmas scene!

 

Mary the Christmas Gnome

Tagged: ceramics, Christmas, eighteen rabbit, fair trade, fairtrade, Vietnam

Unusual fair trade Christmas gifts

by Andrew Williams | November 24, 2013 | 0 Comments

In our last blog we explained why we think buying fair trade gifts is so important, especially at Christmas. But if you're stuck for inspiration, perhaps we can help! Here are some of our fairly traded favourites...

Our Knot Headbands are a new design this year, following best selling Christmas designs last year. Available in navy and burgundy.

These new "Honeycomb" chopping boards are a great addition to any kitchen, and also complement our "Bee" coasters. 

Our "Hope and Peace" jewellery is made in Cambodia from recycled bullets and shell casings. Currently only available through Eighteen Rabbit, these make an unusual and thought provoking gift. 

Finally there's our delicious range of Zotter chocolates - great stocking fillers, fair trade and absolutely delicious!

If you're still spoilt for choice you can browse our online store to find the perfect fair trade gift for you this Christmas. 

Tagged: Christmas, fair trade, fairtrade, gifts

Why buy fair trade at Christmas?

by Louise Davies | November 21, 2013 | 0 Comments

We're swamped with adverts and promotions at this time of year, all trying to grab a chunk of our Christmas spending. Glossy TV ads backed by emotive music make us think of the perfect Christmas Day - surrounded by friends and family, opening beautifully wrapped shiny gifts. It's easy to get swept away with the excesses and we know that can be part of the fun.

 

We've tried for many years to give charity gifts which are a wonderful way of doing something worthwhile with your money, as well as sending a fun message to your loved ones. But sometimes you really do want to give an actual gift, something you have hand-picked and selected because you know the recipient will love it. If that's the case, please do consider buying a fair trade gift this year. Fair trade means that the producers that have made your item will have received a fair wage, will be working in safe conditions, and will be supported to grow their business and provide a sustainable life for their families. If you're buying products made in the Far East or Africa which are not fair trade, you can be pretty sure that someone has been exploited along the way.

 

Giving a fair trade gift will give you (and the lucky gift recipient) a genuine Christmassy feelgood factor. Your purchase will improve the lives of those in need - what better gift to give at Christmas time?

Tagged: Christmas, gifts