A builders merchant has reduced the amount of plastic bags it uses by a quarter – and has raised £5,000 for charity in the process.
Selco Builders Warehouse has seen the number of single-use plastic bags sold across its 66 branches reduce dramatically, from 120,000 in 2017 to 90,000 in 2018.
Selco has decided to split the proceeds from the carrier bags, which were sold at 5p each, between two good causes.
CRASH, the construction industry’s charity, and Macmillan Cancer Support have received £2,500 each.
Rob Brewill, finance director at Selco Builders Warehouse, said: “We, like so many companies and organisations across the UK, are committed to reducing the number of single-use carrier bags we use.
“We’re delighted to see the number of plastic bags being sold reducing dramatically year-on-year.
“The Government’s carrier bag charge has also offered us another way to help charities close to our hearts.
“We were impressed with the work CRASH does, offering practical and financial help to homelessness charities and hospices.
“We are also long-standing supporters of Macmillan, having donated more than £550,000 since 2012.”
Selco’s generous donation will help CRASH continue to improve the lives of vulnerable people who are homeless, as well as men, women and children receiving end of life care in a hospice by transforming the buildings they use.
Kate Marsh, senior partnership manager at CRASH Charity, said: ‘‘We are so grateful to Selco for the important part they have played in helping CRASH continue to create places that care for people.’’
With hundreds of trade brands always in stock and open seven days and for a minimum of 80 hours per week, Selco’s 66 UK branches are firmly focused on helping tradespeople complete their jobs as quickly and effectively as possible.
As well as offering trade services and a café in branch, Selco also has a strong digital presence including Click ‘N’ Deliver, a 30 minute Click & Collect service and a free Project List app which allows tradespeople to plan, manage and quote for all jobs – as well as complete purchases – through their smartphone.
