118 Editor Louise Prance looks at ways in which retailers are helping the humanitarian efforts following the Russian invasion The Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the subsequent humanitarian crisis, has dominated the news of late, and like everyone else in the country, I have been left thinking how I can help – and how I can help refugees from all countries affected by war. During times of wide scale crisis, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, however, doing something is always better than doing nothing. And as an industry based on community, we are experts at pulling together in an hour of need. The Giftware Association (GA) is leading by example, and is working in collaboration with the British Allied Trades Federation to donate £5,000 to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. The GA is calling on member companies to also pledge their support, with donations going towards essential hygiene supplies, blankets and emergency food. Of course, there are myriad charities that are worthy of donations, such as Doctors Without Borders, Voices of Children and Goods for Good. The retail industry has come out in a show of solidarity for Ukraine, and the mainstream chain stores are getting inventive with their support – such as donating a portion of profits to charity, waiving fees for Ukrainian sellers, and halting purchases from Russia. Likewise, a consortium of retailers, including Marks & Spencer, have joined forces in order to provide jobs and accommodation for Ukrainian refugees, as well as holding talks with the British government about what more can be done. So, what can you do as an independent retailer? Coming together with other local stores in your area to launch a charity appeal is one way to drum up support, while offering jobs to refugees not only helps out in the initial period, but will provide them long-term stability. Offering a period where you will double consumer donations to a charity of your choice is also an option, while organising timely fundraising events in-store will help to provide relief to those in need. However you choose to show your support, we know our wonderful industry will be flying the blue and yellow flag during this untimely war. STAND WITH UKRAINE
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