Think global shop local

By Tania Martin
SHOPPERS looking for those perfect Christmas decorations should not miss Local and Global’s stunning array of products.
This fantastic shop located in Belgrave has a wonderful collection of Christmas gifts and decorations including nativities made by Christian Palestinians near Bethlehem.
Local and Global also has some stunning handcrafted nativities from Peru, El Salvador, India, and Bangladesh.
The store specialises in fair trade products which ensure that producers in developing countries get a fair price and that there is no child exploitation.
This great little shop also has locally made handcrafts that are both unique and beautiful and fair trade coffee and tea.
For shoppers looking to be eco-friendly this is the perfect place to shop with a range of organic cotton clothing, recycled paper stationary and books on issues such as permaculutre, the environment, vegetarian cooking and social justice.
This year Local and Global is also stocking a wide-range of Christmas cards from Amnesty International and Wesley Mission with all proceed made from the sales going back to the charities.
Storeowner Jane Thomas has been working in fair trade for the past seven years, but it wasn’t until 18 months ago that she decided to open her own shop.
Ms Thomas said she opened her own store because she was passionate about bringing fair trade to her local community in Belgrave.
“I also wanted to support local artisans, as I see this as a form of fair trade too – it’s important to support the local community,” she said.
Local and Global is one of seven stores in Victoria specialising in fair trade and is a member of the Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand.
“At Local and Global we seek to put some humanity back into trade – fair trade is growing rapidly in Australia,” Ms Thomas said.
To find some truly wonderful Christmas decorations don’t miss an opportunity to shop at Local and Global, 1669 Burwood Highway, Belgrave, or call 9754 4617.