Email: info@bethlehemfairtrade.org
Facebook: Bethlehem Fair Trade Artisans
Instagram: craft_village2017
Website: http://www.bethlehemfairtrade.org
Bethlehem Fair Trade Artisans (BFTA) was established in 2009 by local community members who work in handicrafts. The Association works with independent producers on wide range of products such as olive wood carvings, embroidery, mother of pearl, olive oil soap, recycled glass, handmade paper, and handmade jewellery. The production of so many items is not new for either Bethlehem or Jerusalem as they both the epicentres of souvenir production in Palestine. In fact, a short walk in the old cities of either one will overwhelm you with the souvenir options available. However, the Association works for a higher purpose; to promote Fair Trade principles among all producers and to develop the crafts economy in and around Bethlehem by providing support services to local artisans.
BFTA believes that independent producers must get a fair price for their art and that they should work under good conditions. There is a lack of awareness on such issues in Palestine as local producers often fall prey to greedy merchants or their lack of experience in deploying marketing techniques to themselves. Independent producers usually therefore get paid much less than they deserve and end up investing more in raw materials and working more hours than they are paid for. The problem of finding the right market is another stumbling block, and without proper guidance the producer will either produce too much, too little, or just give up the craft altogether.
The Association therefore is filling that gap by carrying out proper market research and offering individualized services to local producers. These services include developing strategies for business growth, product diversification and creating a healthy work environment with a focus on marginalized groups such as refugees, women, and the disabled. The Association is investing in training local artisans on product finishing, traditional crafts revival, and modernization of certain products that might appeal to local Palestinian consumers. Through the commitment to Fair Trade principles, the Association believes they can create sustainable futures for artisans and the community at large.
BFTA has a beautiful gift shop that displays all the producers’ latest work and where you can ask for tailor-made services.
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Product Selling Points: On location, online.