Mike Holden, who is studying for a degree in Glass and Ceramics at the University of Sunderland, is working with Traidcraft, the UK’s leading fair trade company. He will visit glassmakers at the Crisil glassmaking factory in Bolivia in September, where he will help them enhance their glass products, many of which are made from recycled cola bottles.
Mike says: “Traidcraft has provided me with an amazing opportunity to collaborate and share knowledge with Bolivian glassmakers. Working with Traidcraft, I’ve developed an idea of branding the range with the Crisil logo in glass. This is to separate it from other generic glassware and make it more exclusive. We’re looking to develop a process where the Crisil logo will be put on each item of glassware."
Hilary Anderson, senior product development co-ordinator, says: “While Traidcraft’s range of recycled glassware is popular with our customers, we need to look at how to make the range even more appealing and to differentiate it from other recycled glassware ranges. If we can increase sales then it will mean more orders, and more security, for the Crisil glassmakers. This knowledge transfer project between universities and local businesses is mutually beneficial – Traidcraft wants to invest in the new and exciting talent that comes from our local universities, while students get the chance to work with a unique business like Traidcraft.”
Mike arrives in Bolivia at the start of September and will spend a week at Crisil, alongside James Maskrey, glass technician at the University of Sunderland.
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If you would like any further information or high res images please contact Victoria Lamb on 0191 497 6418 or at victorial@traidcraft.co.uk.
Notes to editors
• Traidcraft works with and buys from a range of producer groups and organisations. It aims to develop sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships through regular trade and support.
• Crisil is a small factory producing recycled glass from bottles collected from the city of Cochabamba and areas around. Over 100 permanent workers are employed, largely as members of production teams. Each team is led by a skilled glass-blower or co-ordinator. Amongst other benefits, the producers benefit from fair trade by getting more regular export orders, having significantly improved working conditions and by getting involved in the setting up of a workers’ association.
• Traidcraft started working on knowledge transfer projects with Sunderland University in 2008, when two University students travelled to India to work with pottery makers in Pondicherry, India. Earlier this year, three PhD students from the University travelled to Peru to help design pottery with craftspeople at ALLPA.
• For more information on Mike Holden visit www.mikeholdenglass.com.
