Theo Paphitis, TV dragon, retail entrepreneur and #SBS Small Business Sunday creator said: “I’m extremely proud, but not surprised, by the fundraising efforts that my colleagues have made in order to support those impacted by the crisis in Ukraine – it goes to show that when we witness suffering and see helpless people, we all want to do something to help.”
“Currently as a result of a combination of fundraising, in-store donations, a very generous donation from Sir Tom Hunter and fund matching from the Theo Paphitis Charitable Trust our total cash donation so far sits at £160,000!”
The Theo Paphitis Retail Group, including Boux Avenue, Robert Dyas, Ryman and London Graphic Centre, has also donated £110,000 worth of products, meaning that the Theo Paphitis Retail Group has now donated in excess of £270,000 worth of support to those in need. Cash donations have been given to the Disasters Emergency Committee.
The 4,000 colleagues across the group have really come together to organise some extraordinary fundraising opportunities. Colleagues have walked marathons between stores, held bake sales, book sales, raffles, mufti days, themed toastie-makers and dressed up in fancy dress.
Theo added: “One of the best pieces of advice I can give to businesses that want to help those impacted by the crisis in Ukraine is this: It’s not about the big numbers, it’s about the little sized chunks of support that all come together and make an impact.”
