The purpose of a Fairtrade Town is to contribute to the Fairtrade Foundation's aim of tackling poverty by enabling disadvantaged producers from poor countries to receive a better deal, through encouraging support for the FAIRTRADE Mark.

Burgess Hill was added to the growing list of 'Fairtrade Towns' in the UK in July 2006 and successfully renewed its status in February 2010.  This is due to the continued work of the Burgess Hill Fairtrade Steering Group which has been campaigning for the presence of Fairtrade products in the town's shops, businesses, organisations and households.

The Steering Group continues to campaign, and is currently targeting work places by encouraging them to make Fairtrade products available in the staff rooms and vending machines.

For more information about the Fairtrade Foundation please visit their website www.fairtrade.org.uk. For information about Burgess Hill's annual Fairtrade Festival please visit: www.burgesshillfreedomfestival.com.