Fair Trade is clearly poised for continued growth in handcrafts and
commodities. It also has a clear impact on growing consumer awareness of global trade issues.
(PRWEB) October 29, 2004 -- Visit http://purelyalpaca.com and youll be impressed by the quality and unique beauty of the natural alpaca fiber products showcased at this specialty web store. Alpaca products are growing in popularity because the fiber is non-allergenic, warm yet light, and extremely versatile. Craftspeople love the yarn because it makes beautiful and durable sweaters, scarves, hats, gloves, and socks.
Its important to note, though, that alpaca is not just a product, its a lifestyle. Farmers and ranchers around the world are discovering the popularity of these gentle animals and raising them for their beautiful fleece. Alpaca farms are quickly becoming popular investment properties, and alpaca ranching an alternative lifestyle for many who wish to start a new career and leave the corporate madness behind.
The alpaca lifestyle, along with the animal itself, is native to South America. Many of the people who create PurelyAlpacas unique fashion items live and work there. So it makes sense that PurelyAlpaca staunchly supports Fair Trade - in both theory and practice.
Fair Trade Overview
Here are some of the basic business principles followed by Fair Trade Organizations:
-Fair Wages - producers are paid fairly - ideally, a living wage that sustains their families and covers basic needs like food, clothing, medical services, educational expenses. Fair Trade organizations accomplish this by eliminating intermediary sellers and dealing directly with producers, this cuts costs and raises profits.
-Fair Workplaces - Fair Trade Organizations encourage their individual producers to build small businesses and team up for co-operative efforts. Then they can reap the benefits of group purchasing power and increased credit eligibility. These producer groups are managed democratically and profits are distributed accordingly. Growth potential is raised, and profits are often invested in projects that benefit the community - such as health care facilities and schools.
-Fair Trade Education - Organizations that support and practice Fair Trade make consumer education a priority - through example and information. They find opportunities to provide news and information about Fair Trade issues to their customers, and encourage them to spend their dollars on Fair Trade products. This practice fosters growth for the overall Fair Trade economy.
-Fair Environmental Practices - Fair Trade Organizations keep environmental concerns in the forefront when making business decisions. They also encourage producers to use their local resources responsibly and find new ways to minimize the environmental impact of their businesses - with an eye toward the needs of future generations.
-Fair Assistance and Respect for Culture - Fair Trade Organizations support producers and their unique products in ways that preserve their cultural traditions. When possible, they provide financial assistance. They can offer loans, or prepay a portion of their costs to cover purchase of raw materials or expenses during the production period. Some also provide information about credit sources and financial management training. They often form lasting relationships that contribute to growth and development of the enterprises of both parties.
"Fair Trade is clearly poised for continued growth in handcrafts and commodities. It also has a clear impact on growing consumer awareness of global trade issues," comments Katherine Anderson, Information Coordinator, International Federation for Alternative Trade.
PurelyAlpacas goal is to invest in these principles and participate actively in the growth of the global fair trade industry. Its a winning investment for everyone because producers are better able to provide PurelyAlpaca with a growing selection of beautifully unique products. Customers have even more fun shopping at www.PurelyAlpaca.com where they enjoy:
-The softness, texture, and comfort of 100% natural alpaca yarn.
-The unique variety of styles of our alpaca fashion collection.
-The convenience of shopping online for one-of- a -kind gifts.
-Affordable prices.
-Durable, beautifully designed jewelry, toys, and holiday items.
-Special offers, new products, and friendly, knowledgeable customer service.
The Fair Trade system allows the artisans and producers who supply PurelyAlpaca to enjoy the benefits of an improved standard of living while preserving their environment, lifestyle, and cultural traditions. PurelyAlpacas customers can feel secure in the knowledge that their dollars help to build a more equitable and environmentally sound system of trade around the world.
Visit PurelyAlpaca at http://purelyalpaca.com
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