We've recently added several new items from one of our favorite jewelry vendors, Far Fetched, to Wedge Worldwide. Far Fetched is a great example of a company that practices Fair Trade principles in their business, and we are impressed with the relationship they have with their employees (pictured above) who produce their wares. By aiding and supporting the individuals who work for them, they in turn receive high quality, wonderfully crafted jewelry pieces from a dedicated and talented group of artisans.Their sister company is located in Taxco, Mexico. Taxco has been renowned worldwide for silversmithing since the 1500's. Their company is located in the heart of the artisan community, with winding cobblestone streets and red tile roofs. Our vendor works intimately with 45 small, independent artisan workshops, ranging in size from one to eight people. Some of these artisans have been with them for over 20 years, and our vendor is committed to their livelihoods and preserving the traditions of silversmithing for their children.
Listed below are just some of the ways that that Far Fetched assists their suppliers:
Central shop facility- Far Fetched provides a workshop in their Taxco office that is used daily by their suppliers, at no charge. It’s outfitted with equipment and tooling that is not typically available to small shops. They also offer equipment consignment, so some of these tools can be used in the artisan’s own workshops.
Technical support-Free workshops are offered to introduce new techniques and tools, address safety considerations and discuss production issues.
Interest free loans- Far Fetched offers interest free loans to help their suppliers invest in their own businesses and for personal uses.No middleman-Wedge Worldwide's vendor eliminates the cost of the middleman, which allows the artisan to earn more money .
Education fund-They have been working on ways to give rewards to the artisan’s children when they get good grades in school.
Daily workshop supervision-A dedicated person visits the workshops of the artisans daily to help prioritize work, check quality, problem solve production, and discuss seasonal demand.
Open Door Policy- Far Fetched is interested in long-term relationships with their suppliers. For this reason, artisans have access to everyone within their organization. Far Fetched recognizes that they have a symbiotic relationship with the artisan community, and they strive to keep the exchange of ideas flowing in both directions.
Stop by and visit us again soon at wedgeworldwide.coop because we are in the process of adding even more fun jewelry from this outstanding company!
written by Shannon
