UK social entrepreneurs gather for retail academy

Developed by Social Investment Scotland (SIS), in partnership with Asda and supported by the Scottish Government, the three day event will provide each of the budding social entrepreneurs with an intensive programme of support and advice to help them propel their products to a wider market of socially-conscious consumers.

One of this year’s Academy participants is The Blankfaces, the UK’s first fashion label aimed at ending homelessness. Launched in 2017 by Gerard McKenzie-Govan, each of the enterprise’s designs are inspired or created by a person who has experienced homelessness. As well as being sold online, its clothing is now stocked in shops across Glasgow, Edinburgh and Manchester and in a standalone store in Glasgow.

Another participant looking to take their social enterprise to the next level is Orcadian based Birsay Heritage Trust which produces Beremeal – an ancient form of flour which is low in gluten and high in folic acid.

This year’s Academy includes workshops from past Academy alumni including Brewgooder, which secured a nationwide listing in Asda following participation in the inaugural event back in 2016. Also presenting to this year’s cohort is Shetland Soap Company. Since taking part in the Academy, the enterprise has gone on to rebrand the product range and secure new listings throughout Scotland.

Former chair of Scottish Enterprise Bob Kellier will be hosting a session entitled ‘Storytelling for Growth’ aimed at inspiring the enterprises to cultivate and develop their own brand story.

The event will culminate in each social enterprise pitching its products to a panel of eight buyers including Asda and Dobbies Garden Centres. Retailers will provide their expert feedback and help organisations to refine their pitches for future product listing opportunities. Retailers will also have the opportunity to continue their discussions with individual social enterprises and even offer a product listing in their stores, if desired.

Alastair Davis, CEO, Social Investment Scotland, said: “Ethical products with a social purpose are in much greater demand among today’s consumers. An increasing number of studies are showing that consumers are looking to brands to help them make a difference. So there is a clear business imperative. If your brand isn’t helping consumers improve their environmental and social footprint, then you’re in danger of disappointing them.

“This year’s impressive cohort of eighteen social enterprises, from around the UK, all have what it takes to take their enterprise to the next level. The advice provided by our leading group of retailers will really help our participants refine and develop their enterprise offerings so that, ultimately, they can sell more product and increase their social impact.”

Archie Stewart, head of food for Dobbies Garden Centres, said: “I’m delighted to be involved with the Social Investment Scotland Retail Academy. I’m particularly looking forward to seeing all of the products on show, and considering if these are a suitable addition to our existing ranges within Dobbies Garden Centres. It’s becoming more and more important to invest in products that are both, ethically sourced and socially responsible, which is something we prioritise at Dobbies and take pride in sharing the stories behind products with our customers. I look forward to understanding how these businesses have incorporated a social element into innovative products.”