Blackburn Foodbank Appeals to Local Businesses for Space to Launch Surplus Food Hub
Blackburn Foodbank is calling on East Lancashire businesses to help make a vital new community initiative a reality by offering suitable premises to host a new surplus food hub for Blackburn with Darwen.
The proposed hub would play a crucial role in reducing food waste while increasing support for local communities. The vision is to create a central location where surplus food from farms, manufacturers and suppliers can be safely received, stored and redistributed to partner organisations across the town.
To make this possible, Blackburn Foodbank is seeking at least 3,000 square feet of space, although smaller premises may also be considered. The space would be used solely as a logistics and storage hub – members of the public would not attend the site to collect food.
The ideal premises would allow for the installation of:
- A walk-in fridge and freezer
- Racking and dry storage for ambient food items
- Vehicle access to enable efficient collection and distribution
Blackburn Foodbank has a modest budget available to contribute towards rent and fuel costs, and is keen to work collaboratively with a business or landlord who shares their commitment to social impact and sustainability.
While this project is initially focused on Blackburn with Darwen, the ambition is far wider. In time, the hub could become a central East Lancashire surplus food hub, supporting partner organisations and charities across the region and significantly increasing the volume of food rescued from waste.
This is a powerful opportunity for local businesses to:
- Support a frontline community organisation
- Help tackle food poverty and food waste
- Demonstrate meaningful ESG and social value in action
- Play a role in a project with long-term regional impact
Blackburn Foodbank already works closely with a wide network of referral partners and support agencies, and this new hub would strengthen their ability to respond to growing demand while operating more efficiently and sustainably.
Businesses or landlords who may have suitable space available, or who would like to discuss the opportunity further, are encouraged to come forward.
If you can help, or would like to be connected with Blackburn Foodbank, please get in touch with us. Together, we can help turn surplus into support for communities across East Lancashire.
