In the run-up to Christmas, SPAR Hungary and the Hungarian Maltese Charity Service have run their 26th Joy to Give! campaign. As of 1 December, customers were invited to buy donation cards in SPAR Hungary’s stores and online shop to support people in need. Additionally, volunteers of the Maltese Charity Service collected non-perishable foods in SPAR and INTERSPAR stores from 15 to 20 December 2022. Customers were invited to add a personal message to their donations to make the holidays of others even more joyful.

Based on last year’s positive experience, this year the sale of donation cards started on 1 December at the checkouts of participating SPAR and INTERSPAR stores and in the SPAR online shop, enabling more people to participate in the campaign.

“Over the past 26 years, the Joy to Give! campaign has become increasingly important for many Hungarian families looking to express their solidarity and sympathy in the run-up to Christmas. According to a research survey conducted at the request of SPAR Hungary, 43% of the respondents say that when they make a donation, they prefer more personalised forms of donating. This year, our customers can write a message to the receiving families online or add a personal message on a giant postcard in our Batthyány Square store”, said Márk Maczelka, Head of Communications at SPAR Hungary.

According to the results of the survey, 78% of Hungarians aged 18-65 have donated at least once to a charity, and one in three of those surveyed donate regularly. Respondents most often donate to a charity during the festive seasons. Experience and research show that people value a personal touch when giving, which is why the Hungarian Maltese Charity Service sends thousands of volunteers to SPAR’s participating stores.

Last year, volunteers collected 188 tonnes of food resulting in the delivery of 26,000 gift packages to people in need. Almost 12 million HUF (nearly €34,000) was collected from donation cards purchased in the SPAR online shop, which was also used to buy food gift packages.

Source: SPAR Hungary

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About SPAR Hungary

The first SPAR Supermarket opened in Hungary in 1992, following the acquisition by ASPIAG (Austria SPAR International AG) of a majority stake in General Kereskedelmi Rt. Since its launch, SPAR Hungary has been actively involved in developing the country’s retail industry.

The licensing of independent retailers to operate the SPAR Brand in Hungary has proven successful. The retailers benefit from access to SPAR Own Brand products and expertise, while consumers enjoy the increased number of store locations. SPAR Hungary is one of the country’s largest employers, with nearly 18,000 team members. SPAR Hungary runs a network of over 610 company-owned and independently-run stores. The retailer’s online platform is available in Budapest and over 50 surrounding municipalities.