by Andrew Williams |
November 24, 2014
|
We were really pleased to feature in this year's prestigious Observer Magazine Christmas Gift Guide. Basically, if it isn't in this gift guide it is probably not worth buying so it was a real boost to be included! And it was great to be able to fly the flag for fair trade in the national press.
We have already had a fantastic reaction to some of the products featured. In case you missed it, here's a rundown...
Rowling the Fox was the star of the show, and though our fabulous furry friend sold out pretty much straight away we now have very limited stock back in. Don't miss out!
Our stylish Piet Hein Eek vase range is a fantastic gift for a loved one or yourself. We have four in stock at the moment - the tall design in Cranes, Bamboo, or Blue, and the shorter design in Red. Again, these will not last long.
Finally, after our recent break in, we have been so proud of all of our suppliers who have rallied round to get us stock back on the shelves. A special mention must go to Craftworks Cambodia who turned round our order in record time, getting it to us from Pnomh Penh in under a week. We now have loads more stock of their range, including the very popular recycled tyre wallets, back in the shop.
Tagged:
Christmas,
eighteen rabbit,
Fox,
Piet Hein Eek,
recycled tyre
by Andrew Williams |
November 17, 2014
|
We love our selection of Zotter chocolate, which is fair trade and made from organic ingredients. The Zotter factory in Austria is legendary among chocolate enthusiasts who rave about the insane range of flavour combinations which are the trademark of the Zotter brand. We have had some amazing ones, though we haven't quite gone as far as their Dark Milk Chocolate with Hazelnut Nougat and Bacon Crackling!
We do have some great new flavours in for Christmas though, and a a public service to all of you I have tested some of them...
The stand out for me is the Tequila, Salt and Lemon bar. Hand scooped, this is a real taste of Mexico in a bar, and as we're all aware the Mexicans knew a thing or two about chocolate. It may sound overthe top but is actually surprisingly subtle and has been going down a storm in the shop.
Mulled Wine and Christmas Magic feature the more traditional flavours of Christmas, the latter is a white chocolate bar with honey caramel crunch.
All of the range are perfect as stocking fillers and are sure to get a great reaction in the run up to Christmas. We love them all year round but at this time of year a really special chocolate is just what you need!
Tagged:
Christmas,
eighteen rabbit,
tequila,
zotter
by Andrew Williams |
December 14, 2013
|
It's been a great year at Eighteen Rabbit, and we want to thank everyone for their support during 2013. We've tried to reward our loyal online customers during the year by offering discounts and special offers via our newsletter (sign up here), our Facebook page or on Twitter. It's always nice to pick up a bargain!
For Christmas we wanted to do something a bit different. That's why, instead of offering discounts or giveaways in the run up to the big day, we're going to donate 10% of the value of all of our online sales to Oxfam to help their fight against poverty. We'll make a note on each order of how much we'll be giving on your behalf.
It's nice to get something for nothing - but how much nicer to know you're making a real difference with each purchase you make?
Thank you from all of us at Eighteen Rabbit, and a very happy Christmas to you and your nearest and dearest.
Tagged:
Christmas,
fair trade,
fairtrade,
oxfam
by Andrew Williams |
November 26, 2013
|
"Black Friday" is one of those strange American traditions which is gradually seeping into the UK (they'll have us celebrating Independence Day next!). Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving, which falls on the fourth Thursday of November. In the US it's a feeding frenzy of 5am openings, crazy deals, mad consumerism and the start of the Christmas rush.
Doesn't sound like there would be a lot in common with the ethics and ideals of fair trade, does it? We try to run our business in a way that encourages our customers to think about the people behind their purchases, and a mad supermarket sweep doesn't quite fit with that approach. Nevertheless, as a retailer we have to see Black Friday as an opportunity to spread our message that fair trade is a better way of doing business.
We are always clear to our customers that we are not a charity - we are not here with a begging bowl looking for donations. We are simply a platform that allows incredibly talented artists, producers and creatives from around the world to sell their products at a price that makes sense for them. The producers we represent aren't necessarily poor souls who need our help - they're entrepreneurs, business people, the future of their nations. They don't want a free pass - they just want a level playing field.
By choosing fair trade products this Christmas you can help make life fairer and more equitable for people around the world. Better than another electric toothbrush, right?!
Tagged:
Black Friday,
Christmas,
eighteen rabbit,
fair trade,
fairtrade,
why poverty
by Andrew Williams |
November 25, 2013
|
Meet Mary - the latest addition to our fair trade gnome family. Her pal Norman has packed his bag for the winter and Mary will be taking is place during the festive season. Made in Vietnam, Mary is just one of our range of amazing ceramics made in the far east in fair trade factories which guarantee workers rights, pay and conditions. A perfect addition to any Christmas scene!
Tagged:
ceramics,
Christmas,
eighteen rabbit,
fair trade,
fairtrade,
Vietnam
