Equal Exchange Co is a brand that is committed to building long-term trade partnerships that are both economically just and environmentally sound. They aim to create mutually beneficial relationships between farmers and consumers while promoting worker co-operatives and Fair Trade. Equal Exchange started with a bold idea: to trade food in an honest and fair way that empowers farmers and consumers.

Despite facing obstacles, such as a US embargo against the Sandinista government, the founders of Equal Exchange began importing fairly traded coffee from Nicaragua in 1986. This act of solidarity with Latin American farmers marked the beginning of the brand's journey. Equal Exchange is proud to support small farmer co-operatives around the world.

They develop long-standing relationships with these organizations, which allows them to secure the best crops and collaborate on various programs, including crop diversification and quality trainings. As a worker co-op themselves, Equal Exchange holds themselves to high standards. Each worker-owner has an equal voice in decision-making and has an equal share in the business.

The brand also has a commitment to income equality, with a 5:1 top-to-bottom pay ratio, as well as equal distribution of excess profits among worker-owners. Equal Exchange believes in the power of citizen-consumers and encourages people to join their community. They organize events, webinars, and monthly meetings to discuss topics such as food politics, agriculture, climate justice, and political rights.

Together, they aim to build a better food system and tackle the challenges posed by climate change and multinational control over the industry. The brand also envisions an alternative trade economy that empowers small farmer communities and citizen-consumers. They aim to challenge the current corporate-led food system by organizing and building alternative supply chains.

Equal Exchange recognizes the importance of grassroots movements and believes that by working together, they can create a more democratic and sustainable world. Overall, Equal Exchange Co is a brand dedicated to creating a fair and just trading system that benefits farmers, workers, and consumers. Through their commitment to worker co-ops, fair trade, and alternative supply chains, they are working towards a more equitable, democratic, and sustainable world