Lanka Kade and fair trade
Fair trade is at the heart of everything we do. It’s not a marketing term - it’s a principle that guides how we work with our artisans and build our business.
Our motivation to trade in this way started in 1994 when Diane and Upul visited Sri Lanka. They met a group of subcontractors outside of a toy factory, who had gathered in an attempt to collect payment for work they had completed three months earlier. Incensed at this injustice, Diane and Upul decided that they would only work with people who respected everyone within the supply chain. This shaped both the direction of Lanka Kade and laid the foundation for our fair trade principles.
Building long term partnerships
We do not work through third parties in Sri Lanka. We work directly with artisans, building long term relationships based on open communication and trust. Upul visits regularly, and is proud to know the name of every artisan involved in the making of Lanka Kade toys. On these visits Upul will discuss problems, help find solutions and ensure that fair working practices are being maintained.
The artisan groups we work with offer good wages, equal opportunities, and safe working conditions, meeting the standards set out by the WFTO’s internationally recognised 10 Principles of Fair Trade.
The 10 Principles of fair trade
These principles guide the way we work and form the basis of both our external partnerships and internal policies:
1. Creating opportunities
We empower small and marginalised artisans by helping them transition from income insecurity to economic self-sufficiency and independence.
2. Transparency and accountability
We promote open and consistent communication, and actively involve artisan groups and their employees in our decision making processes.
3. Fair trading practices
We foster long term trading partnerships through prompt payment, interest free loans and product designs that align to artisan skillsets. We do not maximise profits at the expense of our artisans.
4. Fair payment
We engage in open dialogue and transparent pricing to ensure fair and mutually agreed payment for artisans.
5. No child or forced labour
We conduct regular visits and audits to ensure to ensure our artisan groups are free from child or forced labour.
6. No discrimination
We do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. We advocate for equal pay and opportunity, regardless of race, caste, national origin, religion, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or age.
7. Good working conditions
We work closely with our artisan groups to ensure all employees work in safe, healthy environments. Regular first aid and health and safety training are provided to support ongoing improvement.
8. Capacity building
We invest in the growth of our artisan groups by hosting regular training and development sessions. These include leadership development, ethical employment practices, financial management, and toy safety standards.
9. Promoting fair trade
As a BAFTS member, we actively and honestly promote our fair trade story and values. We work with our local community to promote fair trade.
10. Respect for the environment
We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint. We responsibly source raw materials and repurpose waste wherever possible. Our UK office is partially powered by solar energy.
Why it matters
Fair trade is a long term commitment; we have been doing it for more than 30 years! It means supporting people behind the products, being accountable for how business is done, and doing the right thing - even when it’s not the easiest option.
In the last few years, it has not been the ‘easiest option’ but the principles of fair trade help stabilise and improve people’s lives. That’s the standard we hold ourselves to at Lanka Kade - and it’s one we’ll continue to stand by.
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Posted by Jason Munton
7th May 2025