Spar has announced it’s continuing to show community spirit is very much alive - powered by everyday people who quietly keep their communities connected.
New research commissioned by the convenience retailer reveals that while modern life is leaving people feeling increasingly stretched, everyday acts of kindness continue to hold communities together.
Despite the common challenges people face - 59% say they simply don’t have enough time, 48% cite financial pressures - the new research shows community spirit remains very much alive.
64% of Britons say they have helped someone in their local community over the past year. These everyday acts of kindness include charity donations, giving neighbours lifts and helping families and the elderly.
In response, Spar has joined forces with Olympic Champion Colin Jackson CBE to launch Everyday Champions in selected stores in central, south east England and Wales to recognise the people giving up their time and energy for others in their communities.
Members of the public can nominate their Everyday Champion through participating Spar stores or online. Five winners will be selected to attend the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships from 10-16 August as VIP guests, where they will be recognised by Colin Jackson in a special celebration honouring the everyday champions whose impact reaches far beyond their local communities.
The campaign also marks 30 years of the partnership between Spar and European Athletics “celebrating the values that unite sporting and community champions - dedication, resilience, perseverance, and inspiring others,” it said.
Jackson said: “When people hear the word ‘champion,’ they usually think of medals and podiums. But some of the greatest champions I’ve ever met have never competed in a stadium.
“They’re the people who quietly look after neighbours, volunteer in their communities, coach local sports teams, support families through difficult times and simply make life better for the people around them.
“These everyday acts might seem small, but they can completely change someone’s day, or even their life.”
Anna Hay, marketing and customer experience director at AF Blakemore & Son Ltd, added: “These findings tell an important story - many people are feeling under enormous pressure. Modern life often leaves people with less time, less money and less capacity to support others in the way they would like.
Yet despite these challenges, millions of acts of kindness take place in communities across the country every day. We see community spirit every day in our stores, with regular stories of how our colleagues and retailers go above and beyond for their customers within the communities we serve.
“We know every community has someone whose kindness makes an extraordinary difference, and we can’t wait to hear their stories.”
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