Fairtrade commitment by Compass

In advance of Fairtrade Fortnight, the UK’s largest caterer, Compass Group UK & Ireland has committed to purchasing 100% Fairtrade certified sugar across its entire business by June 2010.

Compass has partnered with Tate & Lyle and will be rolling out Fairtrade sugar sachets across all of its catering sites throughout February to coincide with Fairtrade Fortnight. The rest of the sugar purchased by Compass will be Fairtrade by June 2010.

Mike Walden, executive director – purchasing & supply chain, Compass Group UK & Ireland, said: “Compass UK currently buys more than 1,200 tonnes of sugar a year so this is a major move for the business and one which we hope will have a big impact on the communities we are supporting by switching to Fairtrade sugar. Our sugar will primarily come from growers in Belize, helping them to secure their future through investment in schools, hospitals and the long-term sustainability of their businesses.”