With grassroot beginnings in 1973, Trade Aid cofounders, Vi and Richard Cottrell, gathered like-minded people and began a not-for-profit organisation importing artisan handcrafts out of their garage in Ōtautahi Christchurch. They reimagined trade and thrived in the process.
Their mission was for greater equity in trade and to encourage trade between New Zealand and all underdeveloped countries. The pioneers of fair trade in Aotearoa, a new style of doing business at the time, was one focused on doing social good and using trade to transform vulnerable community outcomes.
Perhaps initially reluctant entrepreneurs, Vi, 83, and Richard, 87, are extremely proud, yet never expected Trade Aid to stillchampion trade justice until it is.
