SBF GB&I and convenience retailers help good causes
SOFT drinks giant Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I has once again launched its winter charity drive.
It is partnering with leading independent convenience retailers to support with stock donations to local communities and charities.
The campaign first began in December 2020, when SBF GB&I worked with 40 retailers to donate cases of Ribena to causes important to them.
This year, the number is even greater, with 60 retailers donating over 30 pallets of Orangina stock to worthy causes across the UK – the equivalent of over 85,000 cans.
SBF GB&I says the charity drive is a key example of the company’s core value of “giving back to society”, which is deep-rooted within Suntory’s global purpose.
Supporting and nurturing the communities that SBF GB&I is involved in has been part of the company’s ethos since Shinjiro Torii founded Suntory in 1899.
Matthew Gouldsmith, channel director, wholesale, at SBF GB&I, said: “Our retailers are at the heart of their communities and play a fundamental role in helping the people in their local area who need it most.
“Donating stock of our drinks is the least we can do to help support their efforts and live our company value of giving back to society.”
The stock was delivered earlier in November and participating retailers will be donating to local charities in their communities over the next few weeks.
Among the Scottish stores that are taking part is Londis Solo Convenience in Baillieston, Glasgow, which has been involved since 2020.
Owner Natalie Lightfoot told Scottish Grocer: “Its such an amazing initiative to be apart of. We have been doing this charity drive since day one with Suntory and last year I even co-ordinated with other Scottish stores.
“Every year, it has been gratefully received by our communities. The initial facebook post I put up had a phenomenal amount of nominations and we selected nearly 30 local charities and deserving organisations who could benefit from the ‘Shake it to wake it’ cans of magic.
“This charity initiative creates plenty of smiles and a great feeling overall.”
