To mark the beginning of LGBT+ Pride season now in June, IKEA is raising funds for LGBT+ charities through the launch of a new, limited-edition LGBTQ+ rainbow cake that will be sold in IKEA restaurants across the UK and Ireland.
It’s also bringing back the ever-popular LGBTQ+ rainbow flag version of its iconic blue bag, STORSTOMMA.
The bag, which has been a customer favourite for a number of years, is available in two sizes and can be purchased online and in store for £1 and £1.50. As in previous years, one hundred percent of profits from STORSTOMMA sales will be distributed to support local LGBTQ+ charities, initiatives and causes chosen by IKEA stores across the UK and Ireland, ensuring funds are directed to LGBTQ+ communities in the local area that each store serves. Last year alone, sales of STORSTOMMA across the UK and Ireland raised over £150,000 (and counting) for 16 different LGBTQ+ organisations.
This year, IKEA is elevating its LGBTQ+ support with the introduction of a limited-edition LGBTQ+ rainbow cake that will be sold in IKEA restaurants across the UK and Ireland throughout June, from the 1st of the month. One hundred percent of profits from the cake will be donated to Switchboard LGBT+, one of the UK’s longest running charities serving the LGBTQ+ community. Founded in 1974, the charity is a confidential listening and support helpline for LGBTQ+ communities, providing a safe space for anyone to discuss what’s on their mind, including sexuality, gender identity, sexual health and emotional well-being. The helpline supports an average of 18,000 messages per year across phone calls, instant messaging and email.
Through STORSTOMMA and the limited-edition cake, IKEA aims to raise money for charities and initiatives that support the LGBTQ+ community all year round. Many of the organisations IKEA have supported provide vital – and often life-changing – support, networking opportunities, and health and wellbeing services to LGBTQ+ people across the country.
Peter Jelkeby, Country Retail Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA UK & Ireland, commented: «At IKEA, we are committed to creating a fair and equal space for both our co-workers and customers, no matter their gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, nationality or disability».
«We recognise that it’s our – and everyone’s responsibility – to continue to fight against the discrimination and marginalisation that is too often faced by the LGBT+ community, and we will continue to use our size and influence to be a force for positive change».
«By carrying a STORSTOMMA bag or purchasing a slice of cake, our customers are taking a small, everyday action that leads to much larger change»
To find out more, visit www.IKEA.co.uk/lgbt
