Coffee roaster’s Swap Shop initiative receives over 5,000 donations

More than 5,000 new, unused and unopened hygiene items have been donated as part of Nottingham coffee roaster 200 Degrees’ annual Swap Shop initiative.

The event, which took place on Tuesday 6 December across all eighteen 200 Degrees outlets, saw customers and local businesses donate deodorant, shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes, toilet roll, nappies and baby products, washing powder, makeup, perfume, sanitary products and everyday household cleaning products in exchange for a free cup of coffee.

The 200 Degrees team filled 20 coffee sacks with a variety of products which were donated to its charity partner Switch Up.

200 Degrees recently created a special roast of coffee after entering into a three-year partnership with the charity, which supports vulnerable young people and their families across Nottinghamshire. £1 in every kilo of coffee sold will go directly to Switch Up, supported by a minimum donation of £10,000 a year.

Commercial director Will Kenney said: “Many people in the UK are unable to access basic hygiene products, and everyday essential items, and these donations will make a huge significance to helping vulnerable families across Nottingham this Christmas.

“We are thrilled and overwhelmed by all the donations that were made at the event and we’d like to say thank you to our customers for their kindness and generosity.”

Marcellus Baz, founder and CEO of Switch Up, said: “My team is absolutely determined to support vulnerable young people and their families through the bleak and dark time this country is currently experiencing. The cost-of-living crisis is crippling people across the UK, especially those from the lower socially economic groups that Switch Up supports.  

“People are telling us that food and energy are priorities over toiletries and Christmas gifts this year. This collaboration has been essential in ensuring that vulnerable people and families across Nottinghamshire don’t need to make this heart-breaking choice.

“200 Degrees has ethics and values that align with those of Switch Up and this makes for a very strong partnership. Thank you to their team and everyone that has donated items, allowing us to continue helping those most in need.”

In addition to its work with 200 Degrees, Switch Up is continuing its Community Appeal until 31 January – click here to find out how to donate.