19 December 2023 — THG Studios, part of THG plc (“THG” or “The Group”), is proud to announce the completion of its collaboration with Mustard Tree to refurbish the IT suite at its Manchester Ancoats hub.
Mustard Tree’s mission is to combat poverty and prevent homelessness and has never been more relevant due to the cost-of-living crisis. Their aim is to create opportunities to improve economic wellbeing and find settled homes, through Community Shops, ‘Freedom’ training placements, support services, gifting schemes, vocational training, and creative courses. Through the support of individuals and organisations such as THG Studios, they offer a collaborative network of professionals and friends within an environment that fosters personal development.
The ongoing support from THG Studios for the project has spanned 18 months, underscoring the commitment to assist Mustard Tree in fulfilling its mission. This initiative serves as a tangible demonstration of THG Studio’s dedication to both community engagement and sustainability.
As part of its ongoing support for the charity, THG Studios has donated surplus items and raised more than £11,000 for the cause. Additionally, THG Studios is donating 49 special hampers, each including a mix of clothing, books, toys, beauty products, and stationery, to aid those in need during the winter period.
The new initiative saw THG Studios leverage its expertise to redesign, decorate, and fully furnish the new IT suite, creating a versatile space to accommodate technology training, events, and family workshops, as well as a library. Highlighting a commitment to sustainability, the project sourced furniture including bespoke built desks and surplus THG office furniture. This strategic approach not only met the project’s furnishing needs but also proved highly effective in minimising office waste - contributing towards THG’s Zero waste to landfill by 2030 target.
Beyond furniture refurbishment, the initiative includes the integration of plants and furnishings to create a vibrant and functional space. What distinguishes this collaboration is that all the refurbishment work was undertaken in-house by dedicated THG Studios employees who volunteered their time and skills for this community-driven endeavour.
Cat Mellor, Director of Creative Operations & Solutions, at THG Studios, said: "Giving back to the local community through Mustard Tree is a genuine privilege. We are so inspired by their kindness and dedication to ending poverty, that we wanted to make a meaningful difference. What better way than to use our in-house talent and skills to create a special multi-use community space. With our awesome crew at THG Studios, we've changed how we look at giving back to the community. It's more than just writing cheques; it's about creating a partnership where kindness and creativity come together to create positive change in the world, we live in. Together, we're not just transforming spaces; we're changing lives.”
Lindsey Morris, Head of Operations at Mustard Tree, added: “This is a transformative project for Mustard Tree, which THG Studios were critical in delivering. The refurbished IT suite will be a safe space for people experiencing disadvantages in Greater Manchester, providing a supportive environment for our community members to acquire essential skills and boost confidence. We are immensely grateful for THG Studios’ continuing support and look forward to seeing where this collaboration takes us.”
The project aligns with THG’s broader sustainability objectives, both from environmental and social impact, highlighting the company's dedication to making a meaningful impact in the local community. The transformation of the IT suite is expected to create a more conducive environment for Mustard Tree's operations, ultimately benefiting the individuals and families served by the charity.
THG Studios looks forward to completing the refurbishment project and remains committed to exploring opportunities for future collaborations that make a lasting difference in the communities it serves.