Fairtrade Canada Wins Inaugural Sustainability Award from the Coffee Association of Canada 

Recognition Highlights Commitment to Sustainability and Fairness in the Coffee Supply Chain 

Ottawa, Canada — Fairtrade Canada has been awarded the first-ever Sustainability Award by the Coffee Association of Canada at their annual conference, recognizing the organization’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices throughout the coffee industry. 

The CAC’s Sustainability Award celebrates organizations that drive meaningful change and set new standards for sustainability. This recognition highlights Fairtrade’s efforts to build more equitable and environmentally responsible coffee supply chains, with a strong focus on supporting coffee-growing communities in countries of origin.  

“The Coffee Association of Canada was pleased to introduce our inaugural Sustainability Award at this year’s Conference. This award recognizes an organization that leads the way in environmental responsibility and making meaningful strides towards a more sustainable coffee industry. We were very proud to present our first Sustainability Award to Fairtrade Canada, a leader in sustainability. Fairtrade’s efforts not only create a positive impact on coffee-producing communities and the environment but also raise awareness among Canadian consumers about the importance of ethical sourcing. This award celebrates Fairtrade’s unwavering commitment to creating a fairer, more sustainable future for all.”  

• Robert Carter, President, Coffee Association of Canada 

By supporting companies in meeting Fairtrade’s rigorous social, economic and environmental standards, Fairtrade Canada helps Canadian businesses enhance the integrity of their supply chains while promoting fairness and transparency at every step.  

Canada is the third largest buyer of Fairtrade coffee globally and has consistently outpaced the market, seeing a 3.2% increase in sales this year alone. This award is a testament to the dedication of Canadian Fairtrade coffee roasters, who are committed to raising the bar in the industry. 

“This recognition reinforces our long-standing role as pioneers in creating meaningful change in the coffee industry. Fairtrade has been at the forefront of driving impact for coffee farmers and ensuring that consumers can confidently make choices that align with their values and create real, lasting benefits for farmers and their communities.”  

• Julie Francoeur, CEO, Fairtrade Canada  

The award also recognizes Fairtrade Canada’s efforts to educate Canadian consumers on the importance of sustainability and fairness in coffee. Through its Fair Trade Programs, Fairtrade Canada has partnered with campuses and schools across the country to nurture a new generation of leaders committed to making sustainable choices.   

This award serves as a reminder of the transformative potential within the coffee sector, as Fairtrade Canada and its partners work to promote fair, transparent, and sustainable practices.  

About Fairtrade Canada
Fairtrade Canada is the Canadian chapter of Fairtrade International, the global leader in fair trade standards with more than three decades of experience working for more equitable trading practices in over 100 countries. As a leader in the global movement to make trade fair, Fairtrade supports and challenges businesses and governments to do better and connects people with the farmers and workers who produce their goods.   

About the Coffee Association of Canada
The Coffee Association of Canada (CAC) is a not-for-profit trade organization that promotes the enjoyment and advancement of coffee in Canada. Representing coffee roasters, retailers, importers, suppliers, and enthusiasts, the CAC advocates for the industry on government policy and regulations. For over 20 years, the CAC has been a trusted source of research, educating members, consumers, and media on coffee trends, health benefits, and industry developments.