THE first ever World Fair Trade tartan is set to go on sale, it has been revealed.
Officially registered by the Keeper of the Scottish Tartans Register as World Fair Trade Day approaches, the pattern is the brainchild of Tania Pramschufer of social action business Hands Up Events.
Created in collaboration with Perth-based highlandwear firm House of Edgar, it features the green and blue of the Fair Trade movement. Meanwhile, a range of products featuring the cloth will be made and designed by the Villageworks handicrafts project in Cambodia and is set to hit the shops this summer.
International Development Minister Alasdair Allan will also be presented with the tartan alongside Rudi Dalvai, president of the World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO), to mark the global day of recognition on May 13.
Yesterday Pramschufer said: “It is such an incredible honour to have been able to bring the World Fair Trade tartan project to fruition. This will create a lasting legacy for Scotland as a Fair Trade Nation whilst also supporting our WFTO members around the world.
“I am also extremely happy to announce the very first World Fair Trade tartan products will be made and designed at Villageworks in Cambodia. This is a truly wonderful circular project, with the first new tartan bags going on sale this summer and all proceeds shared between Villageworks and Fair Trade Scotland.”
Nick Statt of House of Edgar, which will weave the cloth, said the company is “delighted” to be involved, adding: “It is a wonderful tartan for Scotland and we hope it will now go on to support all WFTO members worldwide.
“The fact we were approached to collaborate on this project because of our vigilant approach to ethical supply chain and raw material sourcing is of great pride to the company and we hope to be able to help promote the WFTO ethos for years to come.”
Dalvai, whose visit to Edinburgh will coincide with the Fair Trade Fiesta carnival parade and concert, said: “I am delighted to be coming to Scotland for World Trade Fair Day to wear a kilt made in the strong and deep colours of the new Fair Trade Tartan.
“The Fairtrade movement was launched more than half a century ago by people with strong social responsibility towards the weaker in the supply chain of international trade.
“At that time, there was still a low level of public awareness about the exploitation of small farmers and workforces in developing countries producing products of our daily consumption.
“Despite this, Fair Trade has become a success story, although the exploitation continues in many parts of the world.
“Today, consumers have the possibility to choose products with the guarantee that they are socially and environmentally clean.
“And now Fair Trade has also become fashionable. There is no excuse anymore.”
Anak Norm, director of Villageworks, will design a range of bags and accessories using the plaid.
She added: “We are very excited to be part of this new venture. Our unique designs, combined with the skills of the artisans, make the new Fair Trade Tartan products a must for the ethically conscious consumer.”
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