New guide supports Scotland’s hotels to take practical action on Fair Trade supply chains and sustainability

Scottish Fair Trade has published a new Fairer Hotels Guide, offering actionable support to hotels and accommodation providers across Scotland looking to strengthen their approach to Fair Trade, ethical sourcing and sustainability.

Designed specifically for the hospitality sector, the guide translates the internationally recognised 10 Fair Trade Principles into clear, actionable steps for hotels of all sizes – from independent B&Bs to larger operators.

The resource responds to growing pressure on the sector to address workforce challenges, improve transparency in supply chains, and meet rising guest expectations around ethical and sustainable practices.

The guide focuses on practical actions, including:

• paying the real Living Wage and supporting good working conditions
• building longer-term, transparent relationships with suppliers
• identifying and addressing risks in supply chains, including modern slavery
• sourcing credible Fair Trade products such as tea, coffee and sugar

It also highlights how hotels can use their purchasing power to support both local economies and Fair Trade producers globally.

Kiera Wilkins, Scottish Fair Trade, said:
“We know many hotels across Scotland are already taking steps to support local suppliers, improve working conditions and act more responsibly. This guide is about building on that – providing a practical framework that helps businesses understand what good looks like and identify realistic next steps.”

“As a Fair Trade Nation, Scotland is well placed to lead in this area. Hotels play a key role, not only in local economies but in global supply chains, and small changes can have an important positive impact.”

The guide has been developed to be accessible and relevant whether businesses are just starting out or looking to strengthen existing commitments. It aligns with wider priorities across the sector, including ESG and sustainable tourism.

Scottish Fair Trade is encouraging industry bodies, networks and partners to share the guide with their members to support collective progress across the sector.

The Fairer Hotels Guide is available to download here:
Fairer-Hotels-Guide.pdf