Fair Trade?!
Fair Trade?
"The fact that Starbucks buying policies contribute directly to poverty in many places is what makes this particular company soulless. They say that they make a point of buying "Fair Trade" coffee, but it only amounts to 1% of their total buying. "
We make a point of buying 21% of North America's Fair Trade Coffee. Not all farmers can afford or want to have their coffee certified by a third party because it is a very expensive and time-consuming process. But, we do pay an average of $.06 above fair trade price, and well above the average on the commodity market, and give our highest buying priority to farmers who can prove with receipts and other documentation that they pay their workers well and use the proper equipment. We don't buy any raw materials, we only buy the semi-finished product from farmers, then we roast it. That's all. If you want to, I will engage in a dialogue with you on the subject, but don't be so quick to judge and condemn.
http://starbucks.co.uk/en-gb/_social+res...
5 months ago
I guess I didn't make it clear why I'm ranting; I work for Starbucks, and deal in particular with issues pertaining to corporate social responsibility. You're right, if America demands more Fair Trade coffee, then it will be certified. But, we are the #1 importer of FT coffee in the continent and make it a point to buy all of our coffees at above the fair trade price ($1.27 vs. $1.21). We don't disseminate this information because we believe it should be done because it's right and creates sustainable relationships, but I felt the need to set the record straight. In addition to paying fair prices, we assist farmers with various social development projects, credit so that they don't have to sell crops before they're ready, assist them with healthcare, etc.
Social responsibility is pursued because it's right, and doesn't necessarily harm profits. The key is forming sustainable relationships that will last for generations.
Answers:
5 months ago
I guess I didn't make it clear why I'm ranting; I work for Starbucks, and deal in particular with issues pertaining to corporate social responsibility. You're right, if America demands more Fair Trade coffee, then it will be certified. But, we are the #1 importer of FT coffee in the continent and make it a point to buy all of our coffees at above the fair trade price ($1.27 vs. $1.21). We don't disseminate this information because we believe it should be done because it's right and creates sustainable relationships, but I felt the need to set the record straight. In addition to paying fair prices, we assist farmers with various social development projects, credit so that they don't have to sell crops before they're ready, assist them with healthcare, etc.
Social responsibility is pursued because it's right, and doesn't necessarily harm profits. The key is forming sustainable relationships that will last for generations.
Question? Rant? Who is "we?" What are you talking about, dude?
Starbucks exists to make a profit, and they'll do this in any way they can under the law. If uppity American consumers suddenly have a hankering for "Fair Trade" coffee, then they'll sell a higher percentage of it.
I don't think it's Starbucks that directly contributes to poverty in many places. It's the system that allows a Starbucks to exist and do what it does.