Kiwis’ strong support for farmers reinforced by sale figures

Kiwis’ strong support for farmers reinforced by latest Fairtrade retail sales figures

• Fairtrade retail sales in New Zealand increased from $69.3m in 2013, to $89m in 2014

• Total retail sales growth of 28% attributed to increased availability and purchase of Fairtrade bananas, coffee & chocolate in New Zealand

• Bananas were the fastest growing category, with retail sales growing by 76% in 2014

Kiwis are supporting farmers more than ever by reaching for Fairtrade products when they shop, as shown by the latest retail sales figures released today by Fairtrade Australia New Zealand.

Shoppers spent a whopping $89 million on Fairtrade Certified products in 2014, which is a 28% growth on the previous year’s sales figures.

Fairtrade Australia New Zealand’s Chief Executive Officer Molly Harriss Olson says "Fairtrade has seen exceptional growth in 2014. This has been driven by good performance in key categories; with coffee and chocolate growing by 16% and 22% respectively, steady growth in new product innovations such as drinks, syrups and frozen desserts, and a big increase in the availability and consumption of Fairtrade bananas. This result clearly shows that Kiwis are an ethical bunch who are dedicated to supporting farmers in developing countries through their purchasing habits."

The figures were announced in time for the annual celebration known as Fair Trade Fortnight (8 – 22 May), which has a unique theme for 2015; the Great Kiwi Fairness Debate.

The Great Kiwi Fairness Debate is asking the nation to debate fairness by posing questions about everyday situations and promoting the positive impacts of buying Fairtrade products; impacts for farmers which will progressively increase as sales continue to rise.

ENDS

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