Rooted in Somerset: How Mulberry is giving back to local communities

Inside the factory at Mulberry

Rooted in Somerset since 1971, Mulberry has long been connected to the place it calls home. Today, it continues to support communities across the county.

Now recognised globally, the brand has always prioritised giving back locally. In 2021, it formalised this commitment by launching the Mulberry Somerset Community Fund – moving from ad hoc donations to a more focused, long-term approach.

We spoke to Rosie Wollacott, Head of Group Sustainability at Mulberry, about how setting up the Mulberry Somerset Community Fund with us helped them give with purpose and strengthen their focus on funding groups that champion creativity, craft and mental health. 

“Somerset Community Foundation just made sense. They connect us with community groups and organisations on the ground who need our support, but who we may never have come across ourselves,” she says. 

“While Mulberry remains actively involved in choosing which projects to fund, the process is underpinned by the Foundation’s local knowledge and due diligence. It makes the process efficient and reassuring.” 

Targeted funding where it matters most 

Community is one of the pillars of Mulberry’s sustainability strategy, Made to Last, alongside Climate and Circularity. By working with us, they’re directing funding to the people and places closest to their operations. 

“One project that stands out is the Somerset Care Leavers Fund, which supports young people aged 18 to 25 as they transition to independence,” says Rosie. 

“Addressing challenges around education, employment and rural isolation, the Fund focuses on 3 key priorities: emotional wellbeing through sport, improved access to transport, and increased employment and training opportunities.

Mulberry’s early support helped grow the Fund to £400,000, extending our reach and impact across the county. This has helped to showcase our commitment to early careers, apprenticeships, and the community pillar of our B Corp commitments.” 

A simple way to give with purpose 

For Mulberry, working with us has provided a clear and effective way to give back locally. 

“It’s a highly effective and approachable way to give with purpose,” says Rosie. “They take the time to understand the business values and translate that into a genuinely impactful approach. It means you can focus on what you want to achieve, knowing your funding is being distributed thoughtfully and responsibly.” 

Somerset Day

As we mark Somerset Day on 11 May, Mulberry’s story is a reminder of the role local businesses can play in strengthening the communities they serve in real and thoughtful ways. 

Throughout May, Mulberry customers will be prompted to make a donation at the point of purchase in support of our work, turning everyday transactions into meaningful support for people across Somerset.

Interested in giving as a business to grassroots groups on your doorstep? Explore more ways to give strategically and meaningfully support your community while achieving your environmental, social and corporate goals.