by Bernadette Coote | Sep 1, 2026 | Blog
As the nights draw in, we will soon start reaching for candles, fairy lights and anything that pushes back against the dark, so this month’s Members’ Spotlight feels particularly well timed. We’re shining a light – quite literally – on...
by Bernadette Coote | Aug 27, 2026 | Blog
The BAFTS Board and Staff are deeply saddened by the devastating flash floods that have struck Nepal, bringing widespread destruction and loss of life to communities across the country. Many of our members – including Karma Gear, Paper High, Shakti.ism,...
by Bernadette Coote | Aug 27, 2026 | Blog
This guest blog comes from Alan, General Manager at Bala Sports. A recent addition to the Bala team, Alan has been busy writing blogs, building the Bala website, and – perhaps most importantly – learning how to inflate fair trade footballs! He loves being...
by Bernadette Coote | May 26, 2026 | Blog
There is something genuinely energising about bringing this community together in one place every year for the BAFTS Conference. Shop owners, suppliers, advocates, educators – people who have dedicated their working lives to building a fairer, more equitable...
by Bernadette Coote | Apr 23, 2026 | Blog
Fashion Revolution Week – #WhatsInMyClothes Every garment tells a story. Behind the seams and stitches lie choices: about materials, about the planet, and about the people who did all the work! This Fashion Revolution Week, we asked six of our BAFTS members to...
by Bernadette Coote | Mar 30, 2026 | Blog
Lost in Samsara are experts in stylish, upcycled accessories, producing beautifully crafted, fair trade bags, wallets and cases from the most unsuspecting inner tubes and tyres! With Fashion Revolution Week on the horizon, and the fast fashion industry being one of...
by Bernadette Coote | Feb 25, 2026 | Blog
One of the most exceptional things (among many) about BAFTS members is the profound relationships they build with artisans, suppliers and communities around the world. There are very few business that exemplify the value of long-standing respect, commitment and...
by Bernadette Coote | Feb 17, 2026 | Blog
In January of this year Just, a loved and valuable Fair Trade advocate and social enterprise, and longstanding BAFTS member, closed their Leicester shop doors for the last time. This came as a massive blow to the BAFTS community, not only because it exemplifies the...
by Bernadette Coote | Feb 2, 2026 | Blog
“Behold the turtle! He makes progress only when his neck is out.” It’s not your typical mission statement for a high street shop, but then again, Rainbow Turtle isn’t your typical retailer. Perched in Paisley with that very quote emblazoned on...
by Bernadette Coote | Jan 14, 2026 | Blog
BAFTS has been watching with deep concern the situation in Iran, and our thoughts are with the artisans that our member Papital works in solidarity with across the country. We are gravely concerned by reports of escalating violence against peaceful protesters,...
by Bernadette Coote | Jan 2, 2026 | Blog
Karma Gear have a fascinating approach to co-creation with Nepali artisans. Sharing skills and ideas, their unique range reflects the fun, thoughtful and sustainable ethos of the company. With years of on the festival circuit, Karma Gear form such a recogniseable and...
by Bernadette Coote | Nov 24, 2025 | Blog
Who says ethical shopping has to break the bank? Here are a few of our favourite picks of Fair Trade gifts for £15 and under that pack plenty of personality and purpose. These five fair trade finds prove that you can support artisans, protect the environment, and stay...
