Isle of Man local causes set to “bag” a £22,000 boost from Co-op

13 July 2018

Local causes on the Isle of Man are set to “bag” a £22,000 boost from sales of single-use carrier bags across the Co-op’s ten stores.

The 5p charge, which will be implemented from Monday 16 July, forms part of the ethical retailer’s plans to help reduce the amount of single-use carrier bags on the island and curb plastic waste.

Funds from the sale of the carrier bags will go straight into the Co-op’s Local Community Fund to be distributed amongst local causes that are chosen by members as part of the membership scheme.

Those causes in line to benefit include Without Wings – The Manx Autoimmune Arthritis Trust, Ramsey Cottage hospital League of Friends, 1st Laxey Scout Group, Southern Aquatics Swimming For The Disabled and Men In Sheds Port Erin.

John McNeill, Divisional Managing Director at the Co-op, said: “We’re very pleased to announce this ‘double-whammy’ of good news – not only are we able to increase the amount of funding we’re giving out to local causes through sales of 5p carrier bags, but we’re also delighted to be playing a big part in cutting down the amount of bags in circulation and reducing the impact of plastic litter and waste on the Isle of Man. “Together with our members and customers, we are reducing, reusing, recycling and, reinvesting in our communities.”

Since launch in 2016, the Co-op’s Membership Scheme has distributed £95,000 to over 35 local causes on the island.

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Aimi McNeill
Press and Media Manager(Food)Communications
Mobile: 07739 657585
Telephone: 0161 6924286
Aimi.mcneill@coop.co.uk