Longford social enterprise 'one of the first' to win prestigious global recognition award

The Revamp 3Rstore, (EDI Centre in Longford), has been awarded the prestigious ‘People and Planet First’ verification mark, becoming one of the first social enterprises in Ireland to receive this prestigious global recognition.

The ‘People and Planet First’ mark is a trusted international standard for social enterprises, currently adopted in over 130 countries.

"This achievement highlights REVAMP's deep commitment to sustainability, circular economy practices, and community development," said Breda Murphy Manager.

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Ms Murphy added, "It strengthens our place within a growing global movement of mission-led businesses focused on creating lasting, positive change."

The ‘People and Planet First’ mark recognises organisations that are committed to putting social and environmental impact at the core of their business model.

Ms Murphy explained that the verification is based on five key principles. “(i) Purpose: Solving social and/or environmental problems is our core mission. (ii) Operations: We prioritise people, planet, and purpose above profit in all decision-making. (iii) Revenue: We operate a financially sustainable and independent business model. (iv) Use of Surplus: Most of our surplus is reinvested to further our mission. (v) Structure: Our legal and financial frameworks are designed to protect and lock in our purpose long-term.”

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The verification is supported in Ireland by the Department of Rural and Community Development, the Gaeltacht, and SERI Ireland Social Enterprise.

Meanwhile, Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly last week met with Manager Breda Murphy to discuss forthcoming funding streams and the successes of EDI Centre Longford in recently getting support of the EU Just Transition Fund for a new feasibility study on the new site for the new centre where the circular economy project will be based.

MEP Mullooly suggested that a circular economy shopping mal that facilitates the sale of recycled or refurbished goods could be in the pipeline.

The Lanesboro native congratulated Breda and the EDI team on their hard work and said he will be back to them with more information next week after the publication of the Multiannual funding framework by the European Commission.

Ms Murphy said it was great to meet with local MEP Ciaran Mullooly to discuss the future of EDI Centre and Revamp 3R Store ‘and the exciting road ahead’.

She added, “We explored European funding opportunities to support our ambitious plans and the future is looking bright.”