Mars, Odeon and Just Eat embrace the Veganuary Workplace Challenge
If you thought that Veganuary was just for individuals then you’d certainly be wrong, as the Veganuary Workplace Challenge continues to gain momentum every year.
As Veganuary celebrates its 10th campaign this year, the momentum seems to keep growing. Not only are hundreds of thousands of individuals across the globe signing up to take the pledge to go vegan in January, but entire businesses are offering their support too.
In fact, this year over 80 businesses have signed up to the Veganuary Workplace Challenge so far, including some big names such as Mars, Odeon and Just Eat.
What is the Veganuary Workplace Challenge?
The Veganuary Workplace Challenge asks businesses to pledge to encourage their staff to try going vegan for 31 days.
In return, businesses will receive lots of support to help their staff, including meal plans, special offers and resources.
And of course, the knowledge that the business is supporting a good cause and encouraging staff to do better for their health, the environment and animals.
What better way to practise what you preach than the CEO of a business leading by example?
Who has signed up to the Veganuary Workplace Challenge this year?
The Veganuary Workplace Challenge has attracted some big name businesses this year, including Mars Food Europe, Just Eat Takeaway, Jude’s Ice Cream, Odeon Cinemas, and NHS Supply Chain: Food.
And they’re being joined by the Ministry of Defense Veg Network and Civil Service Veg Network too, in an attempt to encourage members of the armed forces and all government departments to try Veganuary.
Squadron Leader Sophie Foxen, Chair of the Ministry of Defence Vegan and Vegetarian Network and Senior Medical Officer, says, “I’m stoked to be working with the charity Veganuary to increase awareness of the benefits and joy of eating plant-based foods. Signing up to free information, recipes and inspiration is a positive thing anyone can do online this January.
“Some people are surprised that I’m in the military and I am vegan. I believe that well thought out principles are fundamental to being a force for good. If we do not strive for a more ethical world, what are we fighting for?
“The MOD Vegan and Vegetarian Network is quite new but already has almost 200 members, including vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians, line managers and veg-curious. The number of vegans is on the rise.
“We believe the MOD must ensure vegans are appropriately fed and kitted, in order to avoid missing out on top talent, which would affect operational effectiveness.”
Embracing planet-friendly food
Dave Dusangh, General Manager at Mars Food Europe, explains why they’ve signed up. “At Mars Food, we know the importance of what we eat, where it comes from and who we share it with. We believe a better world tomorrow is one where everyone has access to nutritious and planet-friendly food, and that’s why we are encouraging our associates to participate in Veganuary, something that I am personally excited about taking part in.
“We’ve seen over recent years a permanent shift in consumer eating habits towards healthier options, and know that for many people, a plant-based diet is a key part of this.
“We launched our Ben’s Plant Powered range – plant-based versions of UK classics – last summer, which provide an easy option for those taking part.”
If you’ve been inspired, it’s not too late for your company to take the pledge – find out more here.
Lead image: Dave Dusangh, General Manager at Mars Food Europe