The Scottish Retail Consortium publishes its third annual report into charitable giving by the sector. The report found Scottish retailers had raised or donated over £14.7 million in 2018 to good causes in Scotland – bringing the cumulative amount raised since the first report was published in 2016 to £41 million. Hundreds of charities, good causes and community groups from across Scotland have benefitted; together with support for Children in Need, Poppy Scotland, and other events.
The report shows how 26 leading retail brands are making a difference in communities across Scotland from Stornoway to Easterhouse. Alongside raising and donating money, retailers have collaboratively delivered projects, provided surplus food donations, promoted government public information campaigns, and supported volunteering. This is one way the industry is supporting the UN Sustainability Goal to improve cities and communities – an ambition the industry shares with the Scottish Government – and is part of the SRC’s wider work in the ‘Better Retail Better World’ Campaign.
SRC Head of Policy, Ewan MacDonald-Russell, said:
“It’s fantastic to see the tangible and positive difference the retail industry is making to communities across Scotland. Not only have retailers raised an enormous sum for good causes, they’re actively working in partnership with charities and groups to make a significant local impact.
“This report demonstrates the values that make retail such a crucial part of Scottish society. These are not businesses who only care about the bottom line; but recognise their wider responsibility to society and want to deliver for customers and colleagues. Despite the challenges in the wider economy, the retail industry continues to fundraise, volunteer, assist, and provide facilities to make a real difference to communities across Scotland.”
Scottish Government Business Minister, Jamie Hepburn MSP said:
“The people of Scotland are recognised for their generosity and business in Scotland has a big heart too. We should be rightly proud of the scale of the activity and generosity on our doorsteps, and it is great to see the retail industry taking a lead and showing what can be done.
“Our third sector plays a vital role in our success as a nation, particularly in how we look after those who need it most. Helping more people and more communities to get involved helps us all to contribute more – and ultimately boosts the economy.”
