Bunzl Canada has launched a program that gives all 1,100-plus employees one fully paid workday each year to volunteer in their communities, according to the company.
The initiative, called FOR BETTER DAYS, covers warehouse workers, drivers, customer service representatives and office staff. The company said the program represents more than 8,500 hours of paid volunteer time annually.
“FOR BETTER DAYS is about more than just giving time, it’s about giving purpose,” said John Howlett, president of Bunzl Canada. “We believe that when our people are empowered to support causes they care about, it strengthens not only our communities, but our company culture as well.”
Program details and eligibility
Employees can use their paid volunteer day to support any registered charity or community initiative focused on environmental or social impact, according to the company. The program is available to all employees regardless of role or location.
Activities can include planting trees, supporting food banks, reducing textile waste or supporting underprivileged students, the company said.
Part of broader sustainability platform
FOR BETTER DAYS operates under Bunzl Canada’s BUNZL FOR BETTER initiative, which the company launched in 2024. The broader platform aims to unite employees, customers and vendor partners in environmental and social impact activities.
Through previous initiatives, Bunzl Canada said it has planted more than 2,200 trees and diverted hundreds of pounds of clothing from landfills.
“This initiative is unique in the Canadian business landscape,” said Jenny Lawson, director of human resources. “It’s not just a policy; it’s a cultural commitment. We’re giving our employees the time, support, and encouragement to be changemakers.”
The company is certified as a Great Place to Work, according to Lawson.
Bunzl Canada provides cleaning and hygiene products, food and retail packaging, safety products and industrial supplies to more than 45,000 Canadian businesses. The Burlington, Ontario-based company is part of Bunzl plc, a FTSE100 company listed on the London Stock Exchange.
