Symingtons launch €1m ‘Impact Fund’

Symington Family Estates has created a new fund worth €1 million to support social, cultural and environmental initiatives in the Douro and Alentejo.

The family company has pledged an initial €1m to the fund which will support projects in the Douro – where the majority of its winemaking operations are based – and Alto Alentejo (where it has a small property).

The Impact Fund will have a “12 month funding cycle” as well as an annual contribution from Symington Family Estates it was explained.

The primary use of the funds will be for community wellbeing and health, environmental protection and conservation and cultural heritage and education.

The Symingtons have supported various local initiatives for several years, including the Volunteer Emergency Services of the Douro and children’s charity Bagos d’Ouro, both of which will continue to be supported by the fund.

A new environmental protection and conservation partner will be announced shortly apparently.

Rupert Symington, CEO of Symington Family Estates, said: “We have always sought to run our family business in a way that benefits people – be they our employees or the wider community. We are also committed to protecting the beautiful natural environments where we produce our wines. We have consistently reinvested in the Douro region and have a long history of supporting social initiatives in the areas where we work.

“The Symington Impact Fund is a way of formalising this commitment and ensuring we support projects which are most aligned with our values and where we can have the maximum positive impact.”

Last year the company was certified as a B Corporation, which requires it to actively incorporate social and environmental concerns into its business practices.

It was named Ethical Company of the Year by the drinks business at the 2019 Green Awards.

It is currently pursuing a sustainability strategy called Mission 2025 covering all aspects of its business.