Freeset Q's

Q. How long has Freeset been in business?
Freeset was established in 2001 to manufacture quality jute bags whilst also providing intervention and employment to women who had been trafficked into prostitution in Kolkata, India. They now employ over 180 women who manufacture our export quality bags.

Q. What happens to the profits from Freeset?
Freeset exists specifically to provide freedom for women from the sex trade. All profits from the business in Kolkata benefit the women (salary, health insurance and retirement plan) and are used to grow the business. This means more women can be employed and experience freedom.

Q. Why choose Freeset promotional and delegate bags?
With so many “ethical” claims being made by businesses today it is difficult to know where you stand. Despite grand statements it is easy to lose the reality behind the claims and to know how our purchasing choices impact others lives. At Freeset, we seek to differ. We believe it’s essential that trade is fair and want to take fair trade to the next step.

Q. What is Fair Trade?
Fair trade has been defined as an organized social movement and market-based approach to alleviating global poverty and promoting sustainability. Fair trade’s strategic intent is to deliberately work with marginalized producers and workers in order to help them move from a position of vulnerability to security and economic self-sufficiency. It also aims at empowering them to become stakeholders in their own organizations and actively play a wider role in the global arena to achieve greater equity in international trade. 

Q. Why Fair Trade?
Factories and products certified “Fair Trade,” empower the consumer to choose products made under fair conditions. Freeset is committed to providing fair, living wages and a healthy working environment for all employees. Wages are well above the national minimum and all staff receives training, health care, child care, and savings and retirement plans. Freeset is a member of the Fair Trade Federation, a U.S-based network of fair trade businesses.

Q. What can I do to become part of the story?
We believe there is a place for everyone to become part of the Freeset story. Not only can you buy Freeset products, you can recommend them to shops and recruit new outlets in your area. Perhaps where you work would benefit from a custom printed bag or are looking for innovative business gifts. Join in with the Freeset story and help us to build that connection.