Antony Worrall Thompson and Jeremy Piercy met recently to discuss future plans to work together. After leaving school in 1971 they are both leading successful careers: one as a celebrity chef and one ranked in the world’s top 100 most ethical people as founder of leading retail franchise, Shared Earth.
Jeremy Piercy plans to open several more fair trade stores over the next 3 years. Sales from all the combined stores could double UK-wide sales of non-food fair trade products by 2012. Great news for franchisees coming onboard!
Antony and Jeremy have also been discussing some exciting opportunities for joint fair trade and organic projects next year. The first of many includes Antony’s forward note in Jeremy’s forthcoming book about fair trade, titled Cats, Coffins and Fair Trade Sex Toys. Such developments will raise further awareness of the fair trade Mark which approximately 70% of UK consumers currently recognise according to the Fairtrade Foundation.
“The world-wide fair trade industry has been steadily growing for over 20 years. This growth is now starting to accelerate. The supermarkets have done wonders for this awareness through selling fair trade food, as have celebrities like Antony Warrall Thompson,” explains Shared Earth’s founder, Jeremy Piercy.
Antony backs Jeremy’s expansion plans and the Shared Earth franchise, “This franchise is a good idea. Shared Earth seem to have their business locked down through their supply chain by going direct to the artisan producers.
The franchise package aims to address the demand for fair trade products by making them more widely available in the UK through the franchise network of stores.
Training overseas - The franchise package allows buy-in to Shared Earth’s systems, methodologies and supply chain. Training includes an overseas trip to a developing country, such as India, to visit producer groups and see the impact of fair trade first hand.
Three of Shared Earth’s head office owned shops have opened within the last 3 years with substantial growth. The business format is unique in the fact that products are designed in the UK by Shared Earth’s dedicated design team who work with 40 producers in 15 countries to produce items that are highly saleable and suited to UK consumers.
Shared Earth is looking for individuals who have an interest in retail or come from a retail background. All training will be provided and the experience of visiting a developing country ensures that new franchisees fully understand why their role within fair trade is so important.
A selection of Shared Earth’s products can also be found online at www.sharedearth.co.uk. The product ranges include unique jewellery, fashion accessories, wood, textiles, paper, recycled products, soapstone, stationery and the range is continually expanding.
To request a prospectus, book onto a discovery day or find out more call 01904 636400 or email franchising@sharedearth.co.uk
