Bath businesses with a conscience are being urged to enter the UK’s first Fairtrade business awards.
The awards, staged in Bristol and sponsored by The Co-Operative, will highlight and promote efforts being made by firms across the West of England to incorporate Fairtrade into their business.
The Fairtrade Business Awards, which are being supported by Bath Business News through its sister site Bristol Business News, build on Bristol’s burgeoning international reputation for sustainability and its leading approach to areas such as responsible business and ethical sourcing.
Earlier this year Bristol won the Outstanding Achievement Award at the Fairtrade Fortnight Awards. Many Bath firms also support Fairtrade and the city is a recognised Fairtrade City.
The Fairtrade Business Awards take place at Leigh Court, near Bristol, on March 9 and will be hosted by BBC newsreader and long-time Fairtrade supporter George Alagiah.
Every business that meets the criteria for a Bronze, Silver or Gold Award will receive a Fairtrade Business certificate at the ceremony, as well as an e-logo to use on all business communications.
The awards are in five categories:
1. Best Fairtrade Office, sponsored by Bristol law firm Burges Salmon
2.Best Fairtrade Retailer
3.Best Fairtrade Catering Outlet
4.Best Fairtrade Accommodation
5.A special award, at the discretion of the judges and sponsored by Bristol law firm Lyons Davidson, will be made for the Best Overall Fairtrade Business.
The awards are supported by Destination Bristol, Business West and Bristol City Council with Bristol Business News as media partner.
Bristol Fairtrade coordinator Jenny Foster said: “By entering these awards and gaining a bronze, silver, or gold award, companies big and small across the West of England can demonstrate their commitment to fair and ethical business.”
Entries must be received by January 31.
For further information and to enter go to www.bristolfairtrade.org.uk/FTF2012/BusinessAwards2012/Awards.html
