Scotmid has launched a new environmental and wellbeing initiative – ‘Scotmid Community Orchard’ – that will create a Scotland-wide orchard of thousands of trees and bushes.
The retailer is seeking a group near each of its stores to plant five or more fruit trees or bushes within a community space. It will award £200 to each successful applicant, to fund the purchase of plants.
The initiative has been created to encourage people to work together, increasing physical activity and improving local environments. It is set to benefit almost 200 communities across the country.
Orchards offer volunteering opportunities throughout the year as well as the chance to learn new skills, create habitats for wildlife and produce an array of edible produce.
John Brodie, Chief Executive of Scotmid, said: “We love the idea that lots of people doing something simple locally, like planting fruit trees or bushes, not only benefits those close to them but allows them to be part of something so much bigger – an orchard spanning hundreds of miles weaving through our Scottish communities. We all recognise the value that green spaces bring. Scotmid is thrilled to provide the funding for our communities to plant, grow, learn, and let nature thrive.”
The initiative will also launch across the northeast of England through Lakes & Dales Co-op.
Interested parties should visit smartsurvey.co.uk/s/communityorchard to apply. Applications close on 20 January 2023.
