SPAR UK and Marie Curie Strike Gold at the Corporate Engagement Awards

Now in its 16th year, the Corporate Engagement Awards recognise partnerships that align commercial objectives with meaningful social and community impact.

Held at The Brewery in London on Wednesday 7th October, the 2026 awards highlighted a growing focus on local engagement and programmes that deliver measurable change.

Long-term partnerships were prominent among the winners. SPAR UK and Marie Curie secured Gold in the Best Charity, NGO or Not-for-Profit Programme, for an initiative that has grown from individual fundraising campaigns into a year-round community engagement programme.

Judges praised the partnership between SPAR UK and Marie Curie, recognising how two community-focused organisations have worked together to support those most in need. SPAR UK has supported Marie Curie with fundraising for its end of-life care, while also running a number of campaigns designed to build awareness of and connections between Marie Curie and the communities in which SPAR operates.

One judge said:

“This is a mature and strategically managed partnership that successfully balanced national coordination with local delivery. It is particularly strong in showing how a complex retail network can be mobilised behind a shared purpose while delivering meaningful societal outcomes.
"The partnership has shifted from one-off campaigns to a long-term, strategic approach to fundraising and involvement designed to deepen the ties between the two organisations. With events throughout the year, the calendar is packed with community engagement activities and fundraising opportunities. This summer, their efforts helped fundraising reach the £5 million milestone, reflecting nearly a decade of exceptional support from store colleagues, customers and suppliers nationwide."
Richard Lee, Director of Fundraising for Marie Curie UK said:

“This award celebrates the power of our partnership. Together, Marie Curie, SPAR UK, AF Blakemore & Son Ltd, CJ Lang & Son Limited, Hendersons Group and James Hall & Co. Ltd have engaged colleagues, customers and communities across the UK, raising vital funds and awareness to ensure more people can access the care and support they need at the end of life. We cannot thank all of them enough for their efforts and support.”

Ian Taylor, Retail and Brand Development Director for SPAR UK:

“We are delighted that the longstanding impact of our partnership on local communities has been recognised. This award reflects the strength of our work with Marie Curie, as well as the incredible support of our Regional Distributions Centres and store teams. Their commitment and fundraising efforts help us make a meaningful difference in communities across the UK.”