CLASS ACTIVITYINTRO ACTIVITY The Story of Tony’s Chocolonely
Tony’s Chocolonely is a Dutch chocolate brand founded in 2005. It was set up after a Dutch journalist discovered that child labour and forced labour were widespread in cocoa farming in Africa, particularly in countries such as Ghana and Ivory Coast.
The founders had one simple goal: to make chocolate the way it should be made, 100% slave-free.
Cocoa farmers in Africa are often paid very little for their crop. Many earn income levels well below the poverty line, even though cocoa is the main ingredient in one of the world’s most popular foods. This is a serious ethical issue in global food production.
Tony’s Chocolonely pays cocoa farmers a higher price than the standard market rate. It works directly with farming cooperatives ensuring farmers receive a fair income.
The brand also uses recycled packaging and commits to reducing its environmental impact across its production process.
Tony’s Chocolonely costs more than a standard chocolate bar, but many consumers are willing to pay that extra price. A Tony’s bar may cost €4.50 in a shop compared to €3 for a cheaper bar that is not Fairtrade.
Key Skill: Outline reasons a consumer might choose to buy Fairtrade products.
Key Skill: Evaluate the problems consumers face when trying to be more ethical or sustainable.
After reading the information above, answer the following questions:
1. Give two reasons why someone might choose Tony’s Chocolonely over another chocolate bar.
2. Identify two reasons that someone might not buy a Fairtrade brand like Tony’s Chocolonely every time they buy a chocolate bar.
3. Is it fair to expect all consumers to buy ethical products like Tony’s Chocolonely every time they shop?