True Origin Becomes Transform Trade's Latest Ethical Partner

Tracy Mitchell • September 20, 2023

This partnership builds on our joint work earlier this year to support Meru Herbs following the closure of Traidcraft. True Origin (then JTS) had quickly identified Meru Herbs as our most vulnerable producer partner at that time and we were thrilled to be able to create a link with Transform Trade who were able to provide a capacity building grant through their Producer Fund. Since then, we have been able to place a significant order with Meru Herbs, including a number of new lines (partly funded through our own Crowdfunder in April/May) and we are really looking forward to launching those products later this year. This one example highlights the value of working in collaboration with others in the fair trade sector and we are really looking forward to strengthening our joint work as Ethical Partners.

Transform Trade have said “We’re pleased to be partnering with True Origin so that together, we can work for a world where everyone can enjoy the benefits of trade. True Origin is proving every day that business can be done differently, while Transform Trade works directly with the most marginalised producers and campaigns for a fairer trading system.

“You will soon be able to top up your order with a donation to Transform Trade and support producers to build their businesses and advocate for their rights. To celebrate the new partnership True Origin are offering a free gift to Transform Trade supporters who place an order on their online shop between now and the end of October.

"Our roots are in the alternative trade movement in the northeast of England and we draw support from across the UK and beyond. We work in partnership with ethical business, workers, farmers and social entrepreneurs in South Asia and East Africa to transform trade so that everyone benefits. Our focus areas are Fashion, Tea and Farming. We used to be known as Traidcraft Exchange."

Here’s a little more from Transform Trade

"Within an unjust and broken trading system, we stand with the workers, farmers and social entrepreneurs who are transforming trade. We act as a resource partner, accompanier, influencer, networker and ally. We work at local, national and international levels, focusing on Fashion, Tea and Farming.

We have a vision of trade which values all people and regenerates our fragile earth."

For more information on Transform Trade please see

https://www.youtube.com/@transformtrade and https://www.transform-trade.org/

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A woman standing at church fair trade stall with lots of delicious fair trade products available

How to Run a True Origin Fair Trade Stall at Your Church

By Nicola Taylor • July 3, 2026

A Fair Trade stall is about so much more than selling tea, coffee and chocolate. Every purchase supports smallholder farmers and producers who are working incredibly hard to build sustainable livelihoods in the face of climate change, rising fuel costs and an unpredictable global market. For many of the communities we work with, having reliable customers is essential. By running a True Origin stall at your church, you become part of that support network, helping to create regular demand for products that often aren't available in supermarkets or high street shops. Whether your church is passionate about global justice, caring for creation or simply making a practical difference, a Fair Trade stall is a simple but powerful way to turn those values into action. Start Small You don't need a huge team or a large budget to get started. Begin by talking with your church leaders about the idea. Many churches are happy to provide a small loan or donation to purchase initial stock, particularly if it can be repaid gradually as sales grow. Remember that most of the income from a stall is best reinvested into buying more stock rather than raising money for church funds. This helps keep the stall sustainable and ensures producers continue to receive orders. If you're new to running a stall, don't worry, you won't be on your own. The True Origin team and experienced Fair Traders are always happy to share advice and practical tips.