Vertu Hosts Scotland's Biggest Synchronised 'Food Drive' To Back Food Banks
Vertu, formerly Macklin Motors, has held an inspiring ‘Food Drive’ to celebrate and support the remarkable food banks that serve communities across the Central Belt of Scotland.
With many families facing unprecedented financial hardship, particularly during the February mid-term break when children who rely on free school meals require additional meals at home, Scottish food banks are under immense pressure. Rising living costs and soaring winter energy bills have intensified the challenges, leaving food banks struggling to meet the growing demand as donations dwindle post-Christmas.
To help raise awareness of these challenges and celebrate the tireless work of food bank volunteers, Vertu held Scotland’s largest synchronised ‘Food Drive’, with nearly 20 dealerships across Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Ayr simultaneously delivering carloads of non-perishable food to local food banks, including Dunfermline Foodbank, North Ayrshire Foodbank, Edinburgh’s Food Project, and Glasgow’s Community Food Network.
To aid with the delivery of the Vertu Food Drive, the motor retailer invited Scottish singer-songwriter and reality star Paige Turley, along with Greig McBride, creator of the popular 'Scotland Uncovered' social media page, to its Glasgow Central dealership to support the West Scotland donation drops.
Meanwhile, players from Dunfermline Athletic FC, an Official Partner of Vertu, visited the Dunfermline multi-franchise dealership, which shares Halbeath Road with the Club, offering additional donations and support.
Rather than investing in large-scale brand advertising to mark the rebrand of Macklin Motors to Vertu, Vertu chose to support the communities that matter most to them.
Claire McCunnie, Development Manager for the Glasgow South West Foodbank, said: “The Vertu Food Drive has been fantastic, as every food bank across the country would say that donations have been down as people feel the impact of the cost of living.
“For local businesses like Vertu to see what is happening in the community and step forward to help in this way is amazing.”
Sandra Beveridge, Project Manager at Dunfermline Foodbank, said: “It’s very important for organisations in the area to support their local food banks, and raise awareness of some of the difficulties they face in ensuring they can support the community, and those who are in crisis.
“Thank you to everyone at Vertu for the generous donations - it'll make a real difference!”
Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Vertu, said: "We understand the vital role food banks play in supporting families who are struggling. Our dealerships share these communities and it is important for us to give back. This ‘Food Drive’ is a testament to our commitment to supporting those in need across Scotland.”
In Scotland alone, Vertu represents world-leading manufacturers such as Toyota, Ford, Vauxhall, Nissan, Renault, MG, Hyundai and more, but has over 200 dealerships nationwide. This initiative underscores the brand’s dedication to community support, making a meaningful difference where it matters most.