Whitakers unwraps trio of endorsements for ethical products
A YORKSHIRE chocolate distributor is now able to manufacture chocolate approved by the Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade and sustainable farming programme UTZ.
Skipton-based Whitakers Chocolates said it worked closely with suppliers to gain the accreditation, allowing it to compete in a market which is becoming increasingly focused on meeting the ethical demands of the chocolate industry and its end-users.
The move makes it one of just a few UTZ, Rainforest Alliance and Fairtrade-approved chocolate manufacturers in the UK.
The company supplies ten million chocolates a week to hotels, restaurants and retailers across the world.
Ian Webster, sales manager for Whitakers Chocolates, said: “This is an incredibly important milestone for the company.
“We identified the rising demand for ethically produced chocolate some time ago and we have worked hard to meet the stringent requirements set.”
He added: “We can now provide a more extensive range for our multiple retailer customers specifically for their branded products as well as under the Whitakers brand.
“We’re also developing our export business and these accreditations will broaden our opportunities in international markets.”
Rainforest Alliance uses environmental regulations to minimise the impact of farming on the natural world, while Fairtrade works towards ending the exploitation of cocoa farms by ensuring a fair minimum buying price.
UTZ educates farmers on improving crop yield, good farm management and using more efficient farming techniques and practices.