Nottingham Entrepreneur Embraces Giving Friday by Announcing Two-Week Fundraising Campaign

A Nottingham-based vegan fashion entrepreneur is embracing Giving Friday, an alternative to Black Friday. Yen Wei Goo, the founder and director of Paguro Upcycle, has announced she will donate 5% of all profits generated between Thursday 25 November to Thursday 9 December to the charity Young Minds.

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday fast approaching, it is easy to get caught up in the deals and promotions being offered by large corporations. But there is an alternative, and it is growing in popularity. Green Friday or Giving Friday are both alternative options that focus on sustainability and charitable donations.

As the fundraising campaign will last for two weeks, Yen will also donate profits generated during Small Business Saturday, which is another initiative that emphasises the importance of small local, independent retailers. 

Choosing to shop sustainably and locally over the festive period is not just good for the environment, it’s also good for the local economy and jobs market, which support communities. Many small business owners are still dealing with the aftermath of the pandemic and simply cannot compete with large organisations in terms of huge price cuts and discounts.

Shoppers are more likely to find quirky, unique, one-off, or one-of-a-kind gifts when they buy from independent retailers. Many artisan designers, crafters, and creators have had to find alternative ways to reach consumers over the past 18 months due to lockdown restrictions, particularly as many craft fairs and events were cancelled.

Consumers may be surprised to learn that sales over the festive period can make the difference between a brand surviving or thriving in the new year. Individuals who want to support their favourite independent retailers this Christmas can in several ways. They can purchase gift cards, or share independent campaigns, deals, and promotions online and across social media. 

Yen commented: “While the uncertainty of the past few years has lifted for many, some out there are still facing the aftereffects of the pandemic and will continue to for the foreseeable future. I chose the charity Young Minds because there are so many young people dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety, fear, and anger because of what has happened.”

“Young people are the future, so I hope this donation will help more young people get the support they need so they have the chance to recover and enjoy a bright future,” she added.