As Christmas fast approaches we’re pleased to announce the annual Fairtrade & Christmas Fair at Parkinson Court on Tuesday 1st December 2015, 11:00 – 15:30.

The University of Leeds has held Fairtrade University status since 2005.  Awarded by the Fairtrade Foundation, this reflects the Universities commitment to promoting and supporting Fairtrade.

As part of this commitment The University of Leeds hold a bi-annual Fairtrade & Craft Fair, with stalls operated by Fairtrade approved groups, staff, and local companies. The Fair began in 2007 with 15 stalls which grew to over 30 stalls for the last event in March 2015. The donations from the University have contributed towards various projects, such as medical equipment for the Windward Islands Farmers’ Association (WINFA).

The stallholders attending the Fair will be offering a wide spectrum of Fairtrade and Homemade Crafts. Great Food at Leeds will also be there offering raffle tickets, delicious Mulled Wine and festive cakes made from the finest ingredients by our expert chefs, as well as information on how the University contributes to Fairtrade and our commitment to ethically sourced ingredients. We also have a guest appearance by the Staff Choir to sing carols and get us into the Christmas spirit, which leads nicely into the Carol Concert on the same evening at the Great Hall.

Below are five of the companies that will be attending this year, but there are many more, so come to Parkinson court on 1st December and get your loved ones (or even yourself!) something fantastic and unique this Christmas!

The Beehive

“We are a small business run by volunteers, whose aim is to sell lots of Fairtrade products to our local communities and provide information on Fairtrade and related issues. We run on a not for profit basis. Any surplus money is given to Fairtrade charities – mainly Traidcraft Exchange. We aim to run our shop with consideration for the environment and in an ethical manner.”

Ready Planted

“Flowers to delight and beautify, working with you to offer exactly what you need to suit the occasion and meet your budget for weddings, christenings, parties and corporate events..”

Lubylu

“Having always been a fan of all things deliciously scented I started researching home fragrances as I love walking into a room and it smells amazing. Natural soy wax provides a medium that is both a pleasure to work with and provides a beautiful end product. My natural wax candles and scented melts are made mostly from soy wax, which has many benefits over paraffin wax including the sustainability of the source, the reduction in soot, no carcinogenic fumes and a longer burn time and greater fragrance hold.”

Oliviccio

“Our range of high quality produce includes our own dressed & stuffed olives, meze, continental cheeses, charcuterie and more. We are proud to have been awarded three coveted Great Taste Gold Stars for our olives, and pride ourselves on ensuring excellent standards every time you buy.”

Oxfam (Moortown Store)

“Oxfam is a global movement of people who share the belief that, in a world rich in resources, poverty isn’t inevitable. It’s an injustice which can, and must, be overcome. When we give one person a lift so they can help themselves, they will lift others in their families and communities. We call this chain reaction lifting lives for good. To spread that change and make it last, political solutions are also needed to tackle the root causes of poverty and create societies where empowered individuals can thrive.”

SciArtImages

“Science meets Art! Gifts printed with beautiful photos taken through a microscope. Unusual and interesting gifts for all: Bookmarks, Coasters, Compact mirrors, Cufflinks, iPhone cases, Key-rings, Mobile phone pouches, Mouse Mats and Mugs.”

Come and join us at Parkinson Court on Tuesday 1st December 2015. If you would like to get involved in the Fair please contact us at: enquiries@meetinleeds.co.uk

You can find out more about Fairtrade and how to get involved at: http://www.fairtrade.org.uk