Today the Scottish Retail Consortium publishes its sixth annual report into charitable giving by the sector. The report found Scottish retailers had raised or donated over £16.63 million in 2021 for good causes in Scotland, a small rise on 2020’s figure but still below pre-pandemic levels. This year's figure brings the cumulative amount raised since the first report was published in 2016 to £92 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 demonstrates how 52 leading Scottish retail brands are making a difference in communities across the nation. Alongside raising and donating money, retailers have collaboratively delivered projects, provided surplus food donations, promoted government public information campaigns, and supported volunteering. 

Key highlights from the report include: 

  • £16.63 million raised by SRC members in Scotland for Good Causes in 2021
  • £92 million has been raised for Good Causes Since 2016 by Scottish retailers
  • Direct Donations by Scottish Retailers were worth over £10.1 million to Scottish Charities in 2021
  • 900,000 volunteer hours were donated to charity or community work by Scottish Retailers in 2021
  • Over 4 million meals were donated by Scottish retailers in 2021


Commenting on the report, Scottish Retail Consortium Chairman John Brodie MBE, said: 

Despite the immense pressure on retailers and the economy last year our industry continues to play its part in supporting Scottish communities. It’s not just donating and raising over £16 million, but the partnerships, the time volunteering, the opportunity for charities to speak with customers, and all the other support provided by the retail industry to good causes across Scotland. At a local and national level our Members are playing their part in supporting Scottish communities.
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 facing both the industry and 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 Public Finance Minister Tom Arthur MSP said:

Scotland’s retailers and their staff have already gone above and beyond delivering lifeline services and goods to customers and local communities throughout the pandemic. In addition, they have raised millions of pounds for good causes, helping make a further difference to those most in need.


UK Government Minister for Scotland Malcolm Offord said:

This support for Scotland’s charities and community groups from the retail sector is tremendous. Today’s report highlights the generosity of Scottish businesses, giving help to those who really need it most – their fundraising and volunteering must be applauded.