We take great pride in our ability to combine a dynamic business philosophy with a strong sense of ethics, propriety and social consciousness.

Our Business Philosophy

Zenzizi™ began with the basic objective of manufacturing high quality garments that appeal to the sophisticated world market. It has grown into a beautiful store where we now include furniture, home and garden accessories, jewelry, textiles and carpeting.  Our shopping trips include buying both domestic- and overseas-produced goods. 

We strive to purchase from fair trade, collectively-run, or women-owned businesses.  Thus the company has been able to fulfill its commitment to a socially conscious and ethical endeavor.

Why are we so excited about Fair Trade practices?  Here are some interesting facts about Fair Trade:

Fair trade is still a very young industry in North America. The global market for fair trade was estimated to be $2.17 billion in 2006 (according to Fairtrade Labeling International). In 2004 in North America, however, fair trade transactions amounted to only $359 million (Fair Trade Trends Report, Fair Trade Federation).

These numbers indicate a growing, untapped market. Europe has already had great success with fair trade. Therefore, it is only a matter of time and effort before fair trade is established as a mature industry in North America.

The mainstream consumer is already actively searching for socially responsible products. This has converted the fair trade movement into a real, tangible market with opportunities for growth. Carrying fair trade products creates a high social image for your organization in the minds of progressive and conscious buyers. It is a win-win situation, where you run a successful business and do good for the world.

The global market for fair trade was estimated to be $2.17 billion in 2006

•  “As per December 2005, 508 Certified Producer Organizations in 58 developing countries were Fairtrade Certified. That represents more than one million producers and five million people, including dependents, benefiting directly from Fairtrade.” (quoted from: http://www.fairtrade.net/faq_links.html?&no_cache=1)

• In 2004 in North America, fair trade transactions amounted to only $359 million

• Most fair trade consumers at this point are women ages 30-50 and college students

• Fair trade aims to give equal rights as partners in the business to disadvantaged groups such as women and ethnic minorities

• Fair trade takes into account factors such as concerns for people and the planet, not just profit

• Fair trade involves giving credit (in monetary terms) to the producers so they can live off of it and make their products, even before these are sold

• At least 1/4 of the profits go back to fair trade producers

Fair Trade Criteria:

•  Paying a fair wage in the local context
•  Offering employees opportunities for advancement
•  Providing equal opportunities for all people, particularly the most disadvantaged
•  Engaging in environmentally sustainable practices
•  Being open to public accountability
•  Building long term trade relationships
•  Providing healthy and safe working conditions
•  Providing financial and technical assistance to producers whenever possible.