SPAR Italy operators support their local communities through an array of charity initiatives. By selecting causes that are dear to their hearts, SPAR retailers positively impact their local communities, making a difference by improving the daily lives of vulnerable community members.

Work and social inclusion for people with neurodiversity

SPAR Italy partner Maiora this year ran an initiative in collaboration with WorkAut, a charity promoting work opportunities and social inclusion for people with autism and other forms of neurodiversity.

The programme involved Maiora’s local grape supplier, OP Agritalia. A group of young neurodiverse people was trained to prepare and promote the sale of 20,000 packages of mixed seedless grapes. The sale of this product ran at DESPAR, EUROSPAR, and INTERSPAR stores in Central and Southern Italy between 18 and 27 October. The sales proceeds were donated to the WorkAut Cooperative to fund future projects.

Day against Gender-based violence

On International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, SPAR Italy regional operator Aspiag Service launched an initiative in partnership with the Bolzano Police Headquarters to raise awareness and help female victims of violence.

Aspiag Service is committed to helping curb gender-based violence – partly because 65% of their team members are female and partly because they are aware of such messages’ power in raising awareness and bringing about positive change in society. Aspiag Service has already rolled out similar campaigns in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions.

Leaflets promoted by the State Police are now available at the checkouts of all DESPAR, EUROSPAR, and INTERSPAR stores in the province of Bolzano. The leaflets offer contact details and useful information to help recognise, tackle, and file a complaint against all forms of gender-based violence.

In addition, toll-free phone lines for female victims of violence and stalking are printed on the back of receipts at all SPAR stores in the Province of Bolzano, offering victims safe ways to seek help.

Source:DESPAR Italia, Aspiag Service   

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About SPAR Italy

SPAR Italy, known locally as DESPAR Italia, was first granted the SPAR Brand’s licence in 1959. The first store opened in 1960. With it, SPAR became the first partnership of retailers and wholesalers to operate in the country. In addition, SPAR Italy licenses regional partners, all of whom work together to grow the brand across the country.

The DESPAR Partners operate stores under three formats: DESPAR Neighbourhood Supermarkets, EUROSPAR Supermarkets, and INTERSPAR Hypermarkets. Many of the larger format stores are company-owned, reflecting the scale of investment required. While the company achieves most of its turnover through these larger format stores, the independently owned neighbourhood supermarkets remain vital.