The term 'fair trade' is an open principle that is often considered in direct connection with the World Fair Trade Organisation label. The latter sets standards for cultivation and processing, as well as lower price limits. The Fairtrade label therefore has a good influence. However, a fair economic system should be more than just compliance with a minimum standard and payment of a minimum price. A fair economic system must consider and include the entire value chain. We are starting out without labels or certifications, as the costs for these are relatively high and the money for them is too high, especially in this initial phase of the TEIKEI-project is to be used especially for the individual farms.
Our business is based on community. This means that the relationship does not primarily lie in trade, but in the friendly partnerships between the people involved. Through this level of trust and the responsible relationship, we ensure in regular dialogue that the common goal of a community-supported economy is at the forefront. Financing the farming of the individual farms is the primary objective, which is regulated by paying a fair income for all those involved. For us, community-supported agriculture is the result of a holistic approach to quality. In addition to the social perspective, the economic, cultural and ecological dimensions, equality and justice also play a central role in our business activities.
Another advantage of the TEIKEI-system is that we are independent of the usual market fluctuations thanks to our close cooperation with producers and our pre-order and subscription system. Unlike many other suppliers, where prices can rise sharply, our prices remain stable. Thanks to the planning security for our growers and the direct financing of the harvest, we can ensure that growers receive fair prices, regardless of market conditions.
It sometimes makes no sense to compare ourselves with market prices, as these can often fluctuate greatly due to external influences such as wars, resource shortages or other global events. In a year when the global economy drives up olive oil prices due to such events, our prices may even be below the market level - but this does not reflect the real, average price. In other years, when market prices are particularly low, we could be above the market level. However, our focus is not on comparing with these price fluctuations, but on creating a truly sustainable economy that promotes good agricultural practices and high-quality food. It is important to us that our supply chain remains sustainable and viable for future generations.