Until recently few questioned the ethics behind supplying school children with chocolate bars, fried snacks and cola and we simply overlooked the same issues in the workplace. Now that situation has changed beyond all recognition. The issue is not just about what can replace those items we all love to eat between meals it's about what's in the products and where do they come from. Young people are knowledgeable about the effects that food production and trade have on the world. Moreover, even primary school children are aware of Fairtrade products. That is why a company like Fairtrade Vending is so important within the vending market. Such companies provide a catalyst for change and encourage vending operators to think out of the box.

But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Even the most fervent convert to Fairtrade products will not find it an easy ride. However, like with all good work, someone has to lead the way.

Fairtrade Vending recognised a growing demand for Fairtrade products in the retail sector, but a very slow uptake within the vending industry. Nevertheless it forged ahead with the introduction of In-Cup Fairtrade drinks. The company has also developed a range of hot drink machines which clearly make a statement about fair trade and are designed to only offer 100% Fairtrade products.

"Year on year Fairtrade sales in the UK are growing by 46%. The biggest growth has been in Fairtrade coffees and teas which are at 300%. With consumer demand ever increasing for Fairtrade ingredients, I believe these will dominate the vending hot drink market within the next 3 to 5 years," says Mike Steel.

"Fairtrade Vending's range of tabletop and freestanding Bean to Cup and Freshbrew machines produce the highest quality of Fairtrade products that are equal to any other leading brands. All our branding has been approved by the Fairtrade Foundation and with over 16 Fairtrade branded machines available we can cater to all requirements. We are also Franchising out our Brand should there be any interested parties," he adds.

Mike describes the company's efforts with great passion; he clearly recognises the need to provide Fairtrade products that give vending operators the opportunity to provide high quality products that make a real difference to growers and suppliers.

The company has a host of reference sites and supplies a wide range of products from hot and cold beverages through to snacks and ancillaries. Mike emphasises that Fairtrade is rigidly policed by FLO - Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International. Fairtrade standards are designed to ensure that producers in developing countries can gain more control over their lives. The workers and growers decide democratically how to invest their extra income to:

• improve their homes
• improve education & healthcare facilities
• build roads
• invest in their business
• diversify into other crops and other income generating projects.

So what can you source from Fairtrade Vending? The interesting thing is that all products and vending machines are clearly branded with what they are providing. The statement to the consumer is clear: you are buying a Fairtrade product and it's wholesome! Fairtrade Vending offers nine beverage machines: 100% Fairtrade Ubunto Cola, Refresh 700, Refresh 1400, Geneva Fresh Brew, the Encore, Neva Bean to Cup, Neva 3 ultra compact design, Neva 5 Instant and Fresh Brew Tea models (available with payment acceptor) and the Mini Cup Flex and the Style 5 hot drinks machines. In addition Fairtrade Vending offers Fairtrade branded snack machines. When it comes to ingredients the list is extensive ranging from bulk products to FairKupps in-cup drinks. Then there are snacks: flapjacks, Geobars, fruitbars, various cookies and chocolate bars. For more detail see the website: http://www.fairtradevending.co.uk/.