#beyondbusiness

The power of sports to build trust

Sports build trust through teamwork and shared experiences, strengthening bonds that lead to lasting business partnerships.

There is a café in Edinburgh that never sees its profits. Once the rent is settled, taxes calculated and staff paid, Social Bite takes its surplus for the month and gives it directly to charities. Shelter Scotland is one of its main beneficiaries, and little wonder; some of the workers at Social Bite have experienced homelessness and bad housing firsthand.

Set up in late 2011 by two young entrepreneurs, Social Bite is one node of the growing network of ‘social businesses’ spreading across the UK. These businesses focus less on distant shareholders and future projections and more on taking action right now. These businesses are not only virtuous exercises in their own right, taking full responsibility for their place in the community, but are also becoming more popular as secure ventures, as consumers think more about the environmental and social impact of their purchasing power.

Social Bite produces delicious food every day under the guidance of their Michelin-starred executive chef Mike Mathieson, and despite the reasonable prices every member of staff is paid a fair wage. The cooks and waiters, people such as Pete, John and Joe, are extraordinarily grateful for the opportunity; all three of them, until recently, were either homeless or in transient housing. Their jobs at Social Bite have allowed them to rent properties of their own for the first time, and by supporting Shelter Scotland, the business is ensuring that even more of those affected by the housing crisis are helped.

However, Social Bite goes even further in practicing what they preach. The café operates a suspended purchasing scheme, meaning that customers can also pay for the meal of somebody who could not otherwise afford it.

We’re proud that a forward-thinking and socially-minded business, which recognises the need for social responsibility is willing to use its skills and influence to help us make a difference to the housing crisis. Thank you Social Bite, and good luck with your expanding portfolio; a new café has just opened in Edinburgh, with a third opening soon in Glasgow.