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What’s on Richard Branson’s holiday shopping list?
The billionaire co-founder of Virgin Group says there are a few items his friends and family can expect to receive from him, and that he also recommends CNBC Make It readers.
Given that Branson is an accomplished salesman, it should come as no surprise that he recommends products from his own company and from brands linked to the Virgin Group. Still, Branson tells CNBC Make It through a spokesperson that he really stands behind these products.
1. Please Change Coffee
Branson, who once admitted to drinking 20 cups of tea every day, says he is now trying to cut back on caffeine. Still, he just “can’t resist sharing” this impact-focused coffee brand, he says. It was launched in 2015. with a loan from Branson’s nonprofit Virgin StartUp business development division.
London-based Change Please Coffee, which has 10 locations and sells bags of coffee online starting at $13 each, is dedicated to “tacking homelessness through the power of social enterprise and great coffee flavor”, according to website.
“Change Please is doing incredible work beyond just serving great coffee,” Branson says.
The company allocates 100% of its profits to 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. “Proceeds go directly towards housing, mental health support and paying baristas a fair wage. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy your coffee whilst making a real difference.”
2. Virgin points
Virgin Points can be spent 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’s something for everyone to enjoy” says Branson.
Customers earn points when making purchases from the Virgin family or partner brands. You can also buy points directly or donate them to others. “virgin points “They 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 around $50,022 to buy outright), you can earn a week-long stay for two people, minus airfare, on Branson’s private Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands.
3. Fact51
If you’re looking for a “truly special” gift, Branson recommends a “favorite” from her own list: Christmas ornaments from Made51. Launched 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. couple of Made51, selling the products in their retail stores. Profits from every Made51 sale go directly to refugees, helping them earn an income in their new host countries.
Their Christmas collection features ornaments made by refugees from East Africa, Syria, Afghanistan, Mali and Myanmar now living 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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