Consumption of Fairtrade products in a municipal catering organisation

PurposeThis paper seeks to explore the consumption of Fairtrade products in a municipal catering organisation from the viewpoint of corporate social responsibility (CSR).Design/methodology/approachIn the paper, a theoretical foundation is established, concerning CSR, and a few studies related to CSR procurement are presented. Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International and its tasks are introduced. In addition, previous research related to the sustainable food procurement in the catering sector is introduced. Empirical data were collected from a municipal catering organisation by using a theme interview structure.FindingsThe findings indicate that the consumption of Fairtrade products encompasses eight Fairtrade products. Two products are consumed in each unit of the case organisation, whereas six products are consumed occasionally. The procurement of Fairtrade products were based on the values of the case organisation, the environmental programme and the laws and the European Union's communications.Practical implicationsThe empirical results may be utilised when planning the consumption of Fairtrade products in the municipal catering organisation, and when preparing the competitive tendering of the catering services. The findings offer valuable information when transforming the catering operations into a more sustainable direction.Originality/valueThe extent of consumption concerning Fairtrade products by displaying an empirical case study is described.