Week 3 - Making money for good

This week’s blog is about describing another social goods company that has the same buy one, give one model as Blake Mycoskie's TOMS shoes. There are many companies out there who follow the same charitable purpose, and for this entry, I have chosen to write about Lauren Bush’s label, FEED.

In today’s society, charity is kind of a big deal. For example, every October is focused on raising awareness for breast cancer.  Many companies use this time to sell products in which proceeds go towards breast cancer research. Even the NFL, a huge franchise, gets involved by having players wear certain gear in pink for the month, and then auctions off those items for the cause. Companies like TOMS, appeal to the consumers who have a charitable heart who may or may not already donate time and or money to various causes.  This makes the consumer feel like they are doing their part in some way to help society while getting something in return. This is a great way to conduct business for a profit.  “To be successful in business today, a company must do more than just sell a good product.  According to a recent study, 80 percent of Americans are likely to switch brands, if comparable in price and quality, to one that supports a social cause.” http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/05/09/shopping-for-a-better-world

Lauren Bush’s FEED is a company that sells a wide variety of products from bags, bears, t-shirts and accessories to help provide food and basic necessities to those in need around the world. Not only that, FEED appeals to the consumer who is also eco conscious. All products are developed from environmentally friendly artisan made materials. “To date, FEED has been able to raise enough money through the sale of products to provide over 60 million school meals to children around the world through WFP. FEED has also partnered with the US Fund for UNICEF, raising much-needed funds for their Vitamin A and micronutrient supplements program and providing over 46,000 children with essential nutrients.” http://www.feedprojects.com/history

FEED was established in 2006 and will probably continue to grow and be a successful business. “Giving goods can be done right, and when it is, buy-one-get-one products, in-kind donations, and other materials, have the power to transform lives.” http://www.good.is/posts/buy-one-give-one-businesses-like-toms-can-make-real-difference/ It is said that it is better to give than to receive, but with companies like TOMS and FEED one can do both.