Good business was the order of the day as abused and abandoned children and animals benefited from the SPAR Eastern Cape trade show in Port Elizabeth last week.
Some 104 suppliers and 95 retailers converged at The Boardwalk Hotel & Convention Centre for the twice-yearly event at which four new house brand product ranges – including premium pet food – were introduced.
To celebrate the launch, the retail giant committed to donating R5 000 worth of SPAR WOOF dog food to the Animal Welfare Society (AWS) in PE and the equivalent amount of money to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Mthatha.
According to SPAR Eastern Cape marketing manager, Abri Swart, the trade show was not just about doing deals, launching new products and building relationships but also about doing something positive for the marginalised members of society.
“As one of the largest companies in the province, we pride ourselves on being part of our community and implementing ‘good’ business practices in everything we do.”
At the close of the event, participating suppliers were also encouraged to donate their stock to the Eastern Province Child and Youth Care Centre.
“We introduced this aspect three or four years ago,” said Swart.
“Stock which is not utilised at the trade show is given to the centre. It can be anything from food and toys to cleaning products and household items.”
Swart said the day was all about building relationships between service providers and retailers and also with the wider community.
AWS fundraiser Kathy Zenios said the initiative would be a welcome boost for the non-profit organisation.
“As an NGO, we really struggle to feed our animals. It’s the one thing that there’s a never-ending need for, so any programme that helps to support us and make their lives better is fantastic.”
The organisation also received a delivery of 1.5 tonnes of dog and puppy food from Newton Park SUPERSPAR earlier this month.
For more information find SPAR EC in Action on Facebook.
The Animal Welfare Society in Port Elizabeth received notification of a R5 000 donation of pet food at the SPAR Eastern Cape trade show last Thursday. Here AWS fundraiser Kathy Zenios (centre) and adoption specialist Natilee Sterling introduce SPAR EC purchasing manager Alan Stapleton to three of their furry residents. Photo: Full Stop Communications
Issued by:
Full Stop Communications
Coetzee Gouws
082 575 7991
041 368 4992
coetzee@fullstopcom.com
www.fullstop.co.za
Media enquiries:
Anica van Wyk
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079 875 4299
On behalf of:
SPAR Eastern Cape