What’s up Richard Branson‘s shopping list for this holiday season?
The billionaire co-founder of Virgin Group says there are a few things his friends and family can expect from him — and that he recommends them to CNBC Make It readers, too.
Because Branson is a consummate sellerIt’s no wonder he recommends products from his own company and brands with ties to the Virgin Group. Still, Branson told CNBC Make It through a spokesperson that he truly supports these products.
1. Please change the coffee
Branson, who once admitted it Drink 20 cups of tea every dayHe says he is now trying to limit his caffeine consumption. Still, he says, he “can’t resist the temptation to share this impactful coffee brand.” It was launched in 2015 with a loan from Branson’s nonprofit business development arm Virgin StartUp.
London-based Change Please Coffee, which has 10 locations and sells bags of coffee online starting at $13 each, is dedicated to “fighting homelessness through social entrepreneurship and great coffee taste,” according to the company website.
“Change Please does incredible work that goes beyond just serving great coffee,” says Branson.
The company puts 100% of its profits into a barista training program that “trains and employs homeless people as baristas, giving them the tools and support to build a stable future,” he adds. “The profits go directly into housing, mental health support and paying baristas a fair wage. It’s a great way to enjoy your coffee while making a real difference.”
2. Virgin Points
Virgin Points can be used on items and experiences across the Virgin Group family of brands, such as flights on Virgin Atlantic, cruises on Virgin Voyages and stays at the group’s hotels, meaning there is “something for everyone,” says Branson.
Customers earn points by shopping with the Virgin family or partner brands. You can also purchase points directly or donate them to others. “Virgin Points “Are always a brilliant gift because they give people the freedom to choose what suits them best,” says Branson.
For 2 million Virgin Points (which would cost about $50,022 to purchase outright), you can earn a week-long stay for two, minus airfare. on Branson’s private Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands.
3. Made51
If you’re looking for a “really special” gift, Branson recommends a “favorite” from his own list: Christmas ornaments from Made51. Created by UNHCR, the United Nations refugee agency, Made51 sells jewelry, accessories and home decor made by artisans who happen to be refugees.
Branson’s company has been around for a long time partner from Made51 and sells the products in its retail stores. Proceeds from every Made51 sale go directly to refugees, helping them earn an income in their new host countries.
Her Christmas collection includes ornaments made by refugees from East Africa, Syria, Afghanistan, Mali and Myanmar who now live in countries around the world.
The ornaments start at $13 each and are “beautifully handcrafted,” Branson says. “Not only do they add a bright touch to your tree, but they also support a better future for those who need it most.”
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