As part of our Buy Into Retail campaign, we’re spotlighting the work retailers are doing when it comes to growth, people and sustainability. Today, we focus on growth, and the work BRC member SPAR are doing in partnership with Marie Curie to support local communities this festive season.
This Christmas, SPAR is bringing festive cheer to communities across the UK while supporting its long-standing national charity partner, Marie Curie.
Throughout December, SPAR stores are fundraising to help Marie Curie Nurses provide vital end of life care and support for families at one of the most difficult times of the year. Just £23 funds an hour of expert nursing care, making every contribution count.
A festive favourite with a powerful purpose
A key part of SPAR’s Christmas activity is its much-loved limited-edition festive sandwich range. Available until 24 December, 10p from every Festive Meat Feast or Brie & Cranberry sandwich sold is donated directly to Marie Curie.
The initiative has proved hugely popular with customers, with one million festive sandwiches sold to date, helping to raise significant funds for end of life care.
A partnership making a real difference
Marie Curie is SPAR’s national charity partner, and since 2017 the convenience retailer has raised more than £4.5 million to support the charity’s vital work.
Marie Curie is the UK’s leading end of life charity, providing expert care and support for people living with any terminal illness, and for their loved ones. Through a combination of national campaigns, regional fundraising and supplier collaborations, SPAR has played a key role in helping Marie Curie deliver essential care in communities across the UK.
Ian Taylor, Retail & Brand Development Director, SPAR UK says:
For people at the end of life, and their loved ones, Christmas can be one of the hardest times of the year.
We are incredibly proud of the efforts made by our colleagues, customers and suppliers in supporting Marie Curie. Their dedication has made a tangible difference to the lives of those needing end of life care. Marie Curie Nurses carry out vital work every day and night to support people in their homes, providing expert end of life care and emotional support.
Our ongoing support reflects our commitment to Marie Curie and to the communities we serve.
Turning generosity into care
Thanks to the generosity of SPAR colleagues, customers and suppliers, funds raised through the partnership have gone on to:
• Fund hours of vital Marie Curie nursing care
• Support Marie Curie nursing posts
• Help provide care for thousands of patients through Marie Curie’s Hospice Care at Home service
Since the partnership began, SPAR stores and colleagues have continuously organised fundraising and support initiatives, including:
• SPAR own label fundraising, including the sale of fresh daffodils during the Great Daffodil Appeal
• Limited-edition SPAR Brand products created to support Marie Curie
• Fundraising integrated into key SPAR events, including conferences and golf days
• Delivering one million pieces of PPE to Marie Curie Nurses during the pandemic
• Colleagues taking on major physical challenges, including the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, climbing Ben Nevis, fire-walking and zip-lining across the Clyde
Continuing the commitment
SPAR’s ongoing commitment to Marie Curie helps ensure more people receive the care, compassion and support they deserve at the end of life at Christmas and throughout the year.
