The Fairtrade Foundation chose the University of Leeds as the venue for its annual conference this month as a direct result of the university’s continuing commitment to Fairtrade.

“We were impressed by the conference and events facilities available at Leeds and the university’s commitment to Fairtrade,” said Veronica Pasteur, campaign officer for the Fairtrade Foundation. “As such, we felt Leeds would be an excellent venue for our conference and would serve as a good example to our delegates who are looking to further their Fairtrade campaigns within their own universities.”

Since gaining Fairtrade status in March 2006 the university has been championing the initiative across the campus, through its coffee bars and catering services. Fairtrade beverages and snacks are readily available to staff, students, conference organisers and delegates alike, and recently it organised its own Fairtrade exhibition.

“We are very committed to raising awareness of Fairtrade internally and externally and were delighted to be able to hold the conference this year in our Parkinson Court and Centenary Gallery, particularly as it was the first time the conference has moved north,” explained Beverley Kenny, assistant director for catering and conferencing at the University of Leeds.