What problem or need is the project addressing?
The production of handicrafts provides an important source of income for many thousands of African families. However, African producers and exporters of craft products have had little success in penetrating the European market, and in recent years have experienced a decline in sales.
This is for a number of reasons. Buyers say there are often quality, packaging and delivery problems from African suppliers. African producers are also increasingly facing stiff competition from Asian producers, particularly from China, who can make similar products at a fraction of the cost.
What is the project doing?
This pilot project in Kenya is seeking to increase sales of Kenyan craft products in the UK mainstream market. The focus is on linking a selected Kenyan craft producer to a UK wholesaler or wholesalers, based on market research into which craft sectors have the greatest market potential.
The participating craft producer, selected through an innovative design competition, will receive targeted support to enable them to meet the UK orders for their products. The crafts will then be marketed in the UK market under a producer-owned brand.
What impact has the project had?
This is a pilot project, to test this method of linking craft producers to UK wholesalers. Only one Kenyan craft producer and their workers will benefit directly from the project. However if successful we intend to replicate this model of working more widely, in different countries and with different craft sectors.
How is this project funded?
This pilot project is funded by the Mark Leonard Trust.
