SPAR’s ongoing legacy of committing to its communities

It is true, that SPAR, which is run by The Artee group, a leading business house in Nigeria, is the largest chain of retail stores in the world. And for most people it may seem like just a place to pick up another bag of pasta, a box of cereal or even a new blender or set of drinking glasses. But for the loyal, regular customers, and for the men, women and children who happen to live in communities where SPAR store branches are located, SPAR is recognizably a committed member of the local community, a place to shop, but also an organization that makes an effort to give back to others.

 This should be no surprise when the statement of purpose for the Artee Group is “Adding value beyond limits.”  There seems to be no limit to the company’s commitment to serving the needs of their customers and communities.

 

 With stores in over 41 countries worldwide, 11 of which are in Africa, and seven in Nigeria, SPAR has always had a vision for investing in the lives of the people who live and work in SPAR communities. Such outreach is common practice for SPAR stores. In Nigeria, SPAR has been at the head of philanthropic initiatives and promoting the holistic wellness of Nigerians.

In 2011, SPAR sponsored Nigerian athlete, Esther Obiekwe, (favorably known as the “Joy Runner”) in the 38th Berlin Marathon, making her the sole Nigerian representative at the event. The company continues to sponsor activities that promote good health, hygiene and safety for children and adults alike, proving itself to be a business that believes in the model of caring for its customers and community members beyond their shopping experience.

 

 Part of the mission behind the Artee Group is “to offer exemplary services for the joy of our customers.” It is a commitment SPAR employees take seriously because they understand the value of being responsible corporate citizens who consider the short and long term impact of their presence in local communities.

SPAR is committed to remaining a successful and profitable business that is able to help make positive and lasting changes in the lives of those in their host communities. Sustainability practices filter throughout the company’s business operations, but SPAR recognizes that nothing worthwhile and lasting is achieved alone. The company believes in teamwork, relying on key partners, like suppliers, retailers, staff and customers to help make significant socio-economic impact.

 

 In 2016, SPAR seeks to heighten its interaction with host communities by establishing a vital communication link; a far more effective give-back mechanism with its local stakeholders, committing SPAR to wilfully participate in the steady development of host communities and its individual members.

 

 This is evident even as the brand continues to expand its chain in Nigeria. According to SPAR Nigeria’s General Manager, Karan Keswani:

“SPAR is a family business and Nigeria gave our family the opportunity to develop the company and to develop ourselves in the process. It is vital to give back to Nigeria as a whole and specifically to our local communities. We want our SPAR brand to just continue to do bigger and better things for the livelihood of our customers and for Nigerians in general.”

Being responsible social citizens is a must for local businesses. Corporate Social Responsibility is essential in building and maintaining stakeholder trust from the beginning of a company’s presence in the community. It strengthens consumer-client relationships and helps ensure long term success for both the business and its host community. SPAR has long recognized that investing in customers beyond the store doors is a key to investing in both its own, and in the local community’s future.

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