About
OVERVIEW
Founder's story
A Trade Expressions, we became motivated by two visions. One was to create a quality, fair trade boutique that allowed shoppers to find trendy clothing while supporting the economically disadvantaged. Second, in addition to our online store, we desired to sell through fund-raising partnerships with schools, churches and non-profits. In this way, students could raise funds in a socially conscious manner and learn the value of helping others while helping themselves.
Our fundraising partners earn 20% of their sales. For online sales, we donate 20% of sales to a central fund which is later distributed to national partners.
Our mission
We strive to offer a broad selection of quality crafted products that customers will be compelled to purchase on the merits of the products alone. The sense of satisfaction from also providing something greater with each purchase is the ultimate bonus!
We tell the stories of the people and places behind each product - online and on a card that ships with each item. We feel this connects buyers and makers - you can see the impact your purchases have on others. Each trip can be an educational and cultural experience.
We have chosen to primarily market these products through school, church and other non-profit organization fundraisers -- providing a meaningful, year-round alternative to the typical fundraiser.
Our philosophy
Too often, the end doesn’t justify the means. Therefore, we are committed to meeting or exceeding the standards of Fair Trade. These standards include:
Providing living wages
Providing humane and safe working conditions
Adapting environmentally friendly practices
Gender equity
Additional standards
The types of products we sell
Bags, Baskets, Clothing & Accessories, Gourmet, Holiday, Home Decor, Jewelry, Kids, Kitchen & Dining, Paper Products, Personal Care, Plant & Garden
Where the producers live and work
In 25 countries around the world.
Projects we support
Aid to Artisans
H20 for Life
How we select what we sell
What makes us unique
More information about us
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