The British Hospitality Association and the Restaurant Association have today launched an industry initiative with the ‘potential to be the biggest fundraiser ever’.
The Meal Appeal, launched today at L’Oranger in London, calls on all hospitality businesses to give their support to the industry charity Hospitality Action and the children’s charity The Variety Club by adding a discretionary donation on to every bill.
Selected restaurants have been trialling the scheme since the summer, including those in the London Fine Dining Group, by adding £1 to every bill, but the scheme is now being opened out to all businesses in the industry to raise money how they can.
Speaking at the launch with the Variety Club`s Norman Kaphan and long-time supporter, broadcaster Jonathan Ross today, RA chairman Bob Walton (pictured right) said: “Meal Appeal has been designed to provide the industry with a really simple and cost effective mechanic to give something back. We’re delighted to have received so much initial support in the pilot of the scheme and hope to see lots more people sign up.
“These are challenging times for us all, but we mustn’t forget those that need our help. Meal Appeal allows operators to offer ongoing support as well as providing a feel-good factor for their customers. I urge every hospitality establishment in the country to sign up to the scheme; collectively, we could make a remarkable difference.”
Walton said companies could support the scheme by adding 5p to a cup of coffee or £2 on a hotel room bill.
He told BigHospitality: “It’s an ongoing campaign for years and years, that’s how we want to build it. It has the potential to be the biggest fundraiser ever.”
For more information on how to get involved and for details of participating restaurants, visit www.mealappeal.org.uk.
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