Merkur’s charitable constructions reach £1.25m with Bacta donation

Run by the British Amusement Catering Trade Association (Bacta), the Bacta Charitable Trust launched in 1991 and has raised more than £2.25m for good causes across the UK including the Prince’s Youth Business Trust and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Merkur UK made its donation as part of the wider Merkur Initiative programme, which was introduced to help support smaller community-based good causes.

The Merkur Initiative has helped over 40 groups including an animal sanctuary, a foodbank in Manchester, a hospice roof appeal, a homelessness organisation, the Gurkha Welfare Trust and an organisation that provides entertainment for children while they are receiving treatment in hospital.

“This sum is hugely appreciated by everyone connected with the Bacta Charitable Trust and extends Merkur UK’s tremendous support for community-focused worthy causes,” Bacta Charitable Trust chairman Jimmy Thomas said.

“The last two years have been extremely difficult for everyone in society not least the charity sector which saw its revenue streams run dry virtually over-night as a result of Covid-19. Contributions such as the one made by Merkur UK serve as a lifeline.”

Merkur UK general manager Sascha Blodau added: “Merkur Initiative is all about providing financial assistance to those smaller charities that don’t receive the level of publicity and support enjoyed by bigger and better-known organisations.

“What I hope we are demonstrating is that it’s possible to be a successful commercial organisation at the same time as being a responsible, progressive and positive corporate citizen. I am delighted that we have been able to support the UK trade association and help it to continue its fantastic work in the community.”