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GEPA Celebrates 50 Years of Pioneering Fair Trade and Global Justice

From grassroots beginnings to global influence, GEPA's journey proves business can thrive with ethics at its core. Meet the voices shaping its legacy.

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2 min read
The image shows a large group of people standing around a room filled with booths, banners, tables,...
The image shows a large group of people standing around a room filled with booths, banners, tables, chairs, balloons, and other objects. In the background, there is a building with arches, pillars, railings, and a screen, suggesting that this is an international trade fair.

GEPA Celebrates 50 Years of Pioneering Fair Trade and Global Justice

Fair trade company GEPA has marked 50 years of advocating for justice and sustainable opportunities. The milestone was celebrated with an anniversary festival, bringing together leaders from politics, business, and social organisations to recognise its impact.

The event highlighted GEPA's long-standing commitment to ethical trade and its influence on global partnerships.

Founded in 1975, GEPA has grown into a key player in the fair trade movement. Its work has connected producers in the Global South with ethical markets, ensuring fair wages and sustainable practices.

At the festival, high-profile figures shared their praise. Reem Alabali-Radovan, Germany's Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, sent a video message acknowledging GEPA's contributions. Dr. Ophelia Nick, a member of the German Bundestag, commended the company for proving that economic success can align with social and ecological responsibility.

Hendrik Wüst, Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia, congratulated GEPA for demonstrating that business and ethics can work together. Matthias Fiedler, managing director of the Forum Fairer Handel, recognised the company's pivotal role in advancing fair trade principles.

Marília Antonia López, president of La Sureñita cooperative, spoke about GEPA's direct support. She explained how the partnership helped her organisation export products while sharing stories of women overcoming poverty. Gifty Rosetta Amo Antwi, managing director of WFTO Germany, described GEPA as a pioneer in global justice and a model for values-driven business.

Matthias Kroth, GEPA's commercial managing director, reaffirmed the company's unique mission and expressed confidence in its future. Uwe Schneidewind, Lord Mayor of Wuppertal, also highlighted GEPA's efforts in promoting sustainable consumption within the city.

The anniversary festival marked the close of a year filled with recognition for GEPA's achievements. Over five decades, the company has built a reputation for fair trade leadership and ethical business practices. Its ongoing work continues to shape opportunities for producers and consumers alike.

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