Smurfit Kappa UK, the integrated manufacturers of paper based packaging solutions, is revelling in the success of what has been the biggest ever UK charity event of its kind for the company.

Over 200 of the company’s employees joined the ride, cycling in a relay, 12 hours a day, over 25 days, covering 2012 miles around all 35 Smurfit Kappa UK sites.

More than 250 people in total helped to make the event an overwhelming success and their efforts raised a total of £25,000 for Cancer Research UK and Tommy’s, a charity which funds research into complex pregnancy issues.

‘We chose these charities as they are close to the hearts of many of our employees, friends and families,’ explained marketing manager, Khalsa Hughes.

After much planning and careful consideration, the first leg began at the company’s UK head office on Saturday September 1, where an enthusiastic team began the journey cycling 26 miles in Bristol from Portishead to Yate. From there, teams of cyclists from all areas of the business followed the course covering all corners of the UK in a huge clockwise loop finishing back at Portishead on September 25.   

The teams were averaging 80.5 miles a day with the longest leg being 155 miles cycled between Gosport and Barnstaple over two days. There were some incredible achievements and shows of determination along the way.

Monika Maciejewska, sustainability manager for Smurfit Kappa Paper UK who was involved in organising the event, commented, ‘Customers, suppliers, staff, friends and family alike have showed tremendous support through donations and well wishes. Our staff at each of the 35 sites have especially shown great support for their colleagues, welcoming the teams with balloons, banners and buffets.’

Smurfit Kappa UK has a commitment to corporate responsibility and ensuring the prosperous development and growth of the wider society in which its business operates. As an internationally recognised company Smurfit Kappa have been able to exploit its corporate position as a vehicle to support internationally recognised charities such as Cancer Research UK and raise the profile of other charities such as Tommy’s.

This achievement will undoubtedly set a precedent for future charity events and has inspired the 2500 UK employees to take part in more activities that support the wider community. 

 

 

www.smurfitkappa.com