Standard Owner Benchmark - FAIR TRADE USA

Fair Trade USA is a nonprofit organization, is the leading third-party certifier of Fair Trade products in the United States. Fair Trade USA audits and certifies transactions between U.S. companies and their international suppliers to guarantee that the farmers and workers producing Fair Trade Certified goods were paid fair prices and wages, work in safe conditions, protect the environment, and receive community development funds to empower and uplift their communities. Fair Trade USA educates consumers, brings new manufacturers and retailers into the Fair Trade system, and provides farmers with tools, training and resources to thrive as international businesspeople. Fair trade is a global movement made up of a diverse network of producers, companies, consumers, advocates, and organizations putting people and planet first. We at Fair Trade USA® believe that everyone wants to do what’s right – for their families, fellow global citizens, and the planet. That’s why we’re committed to making the right choices the most obvious ones. Based on the simple idea that the products bought and sold every day are connected to the livelihoods of others, fair trade is a way to make a conscious choice for a better world. A choice for Fair Trade Certified™ goods is a choice to support responsible companies, empower farmers, workers, and fishermen, and protect the environment. In other words, it’s a world-changing way of doing business. **What does fair trade certification mean?** When you see a product with the Fair Trade Certified seal, you can be sure it was made according to rigorous social, environmental, and economic standards. We work closely on the ground with producers and certify transactions between companies and their suppliers to ensure that the people making Fair Trade Certified goods work in safe conditions, protect the environment, build sustainable livelihoods, and earn additional money to empower and uplift their communities. **Our impact** We measure progress in the tangible difference we're making in lives and communities around the world. That includes financial benefit to producers, stronger communities, improved livelihoods, and commitments made to the people in our supply chains. **Sustainable Development Goals** The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a call for action by all countries to promote prosperity while protecting the planet. Fair Trade USA standards promote direct and meaningful impact within six SDG areas. **Leadership** Fair Trade USA is guided by a diverse team of leaders who are united under our mission to alleviate global poverty and promote sustainable development. We’re leading the charge toward sustainable development and corporate social responsibility by forming fair and honest partnerships across the globe. We believe in community, we’re excited about change, and we’re guided by bright, talented changemakers who share our vision.