Pupils and staff at Buchanan High in Coatbridge are delighted to be launching a wide variety of Fairtrade items to their well-established community café, just in time for Fairtrade Fortnight.
The café, run by pupils and staff, serves Fairtrade tea, coffee, and snacks, helping raise awareness about ethical shopping and global fairness.
The launch is part of the UK-wide “Do It Fair” campaign, which encourages people to support farmers and workers around the world by choosing Fairtrade products.
It was made possible with the help of a community grant from the Scottish Fairtrade Forum.
The initiative builds on the school’s support for the Fairtrade movement over many years and aims to teach young people about the importance of fair pay, sustainability, and responsible consumer choices.
Michael McGinley Head Teacher of Buchanan High School said: "We’re proud to be part of Fairtrade Fortnight and to open our new café. It’s a great opportunity for our pupils to learn about global issues and make a real difference in their community and beyond."
The café is open two days a week for pupils, staff and visitors, and sells items from popular Fairtrade brands.
North Lanarkshire Provost Kenneth Duffy, who attended the event, added: "This is a fantastic example of young people leading the way in promoting fairness and sustainability. Buchanan High School is showing how local action can support global change."
Fairtrade also supports the wider campaign calling on the UK Government to strengthen laws that protect human rights and the environment in supply chains.
Fairtrade Fortnight runs from 22 September to 5 October 2025. For more information, visit fairtrade.org.uk.