Tesco is gunning to become number one in volume for Fairtrade cotton clothing, as it doubles its range of Fairtrade cotton school uniforms.

The retailer also claims to be the first grocer to introduce Fairtrade cotton knitwear, which will be in stores for the start of Fairtrade Fortnight on Monday, and is designed to appeal to a younger, more fashion-conscious customer.

Tesco expects volume sales of its Fairtrade school uniforms to soar 85% in its next financial year to the end of February 2011.

To celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight Tesco is running offers such as bogofs on men’s £10 Fairtrade polo shirts and £6 T-shirts, and two for £6 on all women’s £4 Fairtrade T-shirts.

UK clothing chief executive Terry Green said the increased Fairtrade offer showed “continued commitment to the Fairtrade cause and further supports the 19,500 Fairtrade cotton farmers who supply us”.