Social enterprise shopping directory launched

An online directory to allow people to purchase from social enterprises in Scotland has been launched after 38 per cent of Scottish residents said the experiences of lockdown have made them more likely to support local not-for-profit organisations.

Grace Chocolates in Stirling is one of the social enterprises in the directory.

Currently a third of Scottish consumers have bought from a social enterprise in the last year, with 20 per cent of these buying products and services from social enterprises on a regular basis. Of those who have not purchased from a social enterprise this year, 46 per cent said it is because they do not know of any social enterprise to buy from.

There are over 6,000 social enterprises in Scotland generating over £3 billion in trading income and employing almost 90,000 people.

The launch of the website comes as The Scotsman has launched its own campaign, #SupportLocal, to boost business for local companies in the run up to the festive season.

Buy Social Scotland includes 100 listings from social enterprises from all over Scotland, including Mecoco, that offers work experience opportunities for disabled people to make eco-friendly candles, diffusers and soaps, Grace Chocolates where women who have been involved in the Scottish Criminal Justice System make handmade chocolates and The Blankfaces, the UK’s first non-profit fashion label, helping the homeless in Glasgow.

Aileen Campbell, cabinet secretary for communities and local government, said: “Scotland’s social enterprises have a positive reputation for giving back to their communities and delivering positive change while contributing to the Scottish economy. They are supported through the Government’s social enterprise action plan.

“The Buy Social Scotland directory will help the public support their local communities by choosing to buy a present with a purpose this festive season. I would encourage people to see if there is a good ethical gift option for their loved ones this year, so they can make a gift with a difference.”

Chris Martin, chief executive of Social Enterprise Scotland, said “Scotland leads the way in social enterprise, but for too long many social enterprises have been a hidden secret.

“With so many ethical shoppers looking to find great products and services while also helping to build a better, fairer society, now is the time for Scotland to Buy Social and support businesses that give back.”

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