The Co-operative Fairbourne Springs
The Co-operative is the only retailer to launch an own-brand ethical bottled water, in partnership with The One Foundation, raising funds for clean water and sanitation projects across sub-Saharan Africa.
Social impacts
Business impacts
In 2008, the Co-operative Group launched Fairbourne Springs in partnership with The One Foundation. The aim was to be the first ever retailer to offer an ethical own-brand water product. Using a cause-related marketing approach, for every litre sold, the Co-operative Group donates 3p to The One Foundation to fund clean water and sanitation projects across sub-Saharan Africa.
The One Foundation identifies target groups to support and finds suitable delivery partners. To maximise results for each project, it works with trusted NGO partners, such as Oxfam, who have in-country experience.
Through the project, the Co-operative Group has donated over £5.5 million to fund clean water projects, benefiting over 1.3 million people. This safe, clean, sustainable water enhances health and quality of life, reduces the incidence of waterborne diseases and reduces the time spent collecting water.
What The Co-operative Food's Chief Executive said:
“We’re proud that our Fairbourne Springs water was the first and is still the only own-brand ethical water in the UK. Our goal is to be the number one convenience retailer in the UK, and with Fairbourne Springs, our customers can buy a convenient product in their local community, as well as making a difference to communities across Africa.” - Steve Murrells, Chief Executive, The Co-operative Food