Pub companies hit million pound charity mark

Two pub companies are celebrating significant charitable milestones, after raising £1m each for their respective charities. 

Craft Union Pub Company, part of Stonegate Group, has raised more than £1m in the last 12 months for 650 different local causes, individuals and families in need, through community-focused fundraising initiatives. 

This achievement marks the culmination of Craft Union's ‘Make it a Million’ campaign, which has brought together pub operators, guests, operations and support teams in an effort to make £1m in a year.

Meanwhile, Fuller's has announced that its total fundraising for charity partner Special Olympics GB has now also surpassed £1m.

Special Olympics GB uses the power of sport to transform the lives of children and adults with intellectual (learning) disabilities, providing opportunities at grassroots clubs across England, Scotland and Wales. Fuller's named it as its charity partner in 2018 and, since then, its pubs and hotels have staged multiple fundraising and engagement opportunities with the charity’s 6,600 registered athletes.

Fundraising events

Since launching its campaign in February 2024, Craft Union pubs have held nearly 2,000 fundraising events which have collectively help reach its target.

"It’s a testament to the union of community spirit and the dedication of our people to help others," says Frazer Grimbleby, managing director of Craft Union. "This milestone does not just represent funds raised but more importantly the thousands of lives that will have improved through the generosity and hard work of everyone involved. And we’re not stopping here – watch this space for our next community initiative."

Underpinning the Fuller's fundraising strategy has been a 50p donation from the operator from every child’s meal purchased at its venues to Special Olympics GB, allowing families to contribute to the cause while enjoying a meal out. Additionally, Fuller's has utilised the Pennies fundraising platform, which allows customers to make small donations during contactless food and drink payments to Special Olympics GB.

"This has been a fantastic partnership from the beginning," says Simon Emeny, CEO of Fuller’s. "We’ve loved working with Special Olympics and I’m so proud of all our team members for helping us hit this million-pound milestone. We have had some memorable days – at the football tournaments and Bridge Walks for example – with our friends at Special Olympics and getting to know the people that the charity supports has been really special."

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