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What on Richard Bransonshopping list this holiday season?
The billionaire co-founder of Virgin Group says there are a few things his friends and family can expect from him, and that he also recommends CNBC Make It readers.
Because Branson shows up an unsurpassed salesmanit should come as no surprise that he recommends products from his company and brands associated with the Virgin Group. However, Branson tells CNBC Make It through a spokesperson that he wholeheartedly supports these products.
Branson, who once admitted drink 20 cups of tea every daysays he is currently trying to cut back on caffeine. Still, he just “can’t resist sharing” this impact-driven coffee brand, he says. It was launched in 2015 with a loan from Virgin StartUp Branson’s non-profit business development division.
London-based Change Please Coffee, which has 10 locations and sells bags of coffee online for $13 each, is dedicated to “fighting homelessness through social entrepreneurship and great-tasting coffee,” according to the agency. website.
“Change Please does an incredible job beyond just serving great coffee,” says Branson.
The business donates 100% of its profits to a barista training program that “trains and hires homeless people as baristas, giving them the tools and support to build a sustainable future,” he adds. “Profits go directly to housing, mental health support and paying baristas a fair wage. It’s a great way to enjoy coffee while doing real good.”
Virgin Points can be redeemed for items and experiences from the Virgin Group family of brands, such as flights on Virgin Atlantic, cruises on Virgin Voyages and stays at group hotels, meaning “there’s something for everyone,” says Branson.
Customers earn points when shopping at the Virgin family or partner brands. You can also buy points directly or donate them to others. “Virgin Points always give 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 about $50,022 to buy directly), you can earn a week’s stay for two people, minus airfare, on Branson’s own private island Necker in the British Virgin Islands.
If you’re looking for a “really special” gift, Branson recommends a “favorite” on her list: holiday ornaments from Made51. Launched by UNHCR, the United Nations Refugee Agency, Made51 sells jewelry, accessories and home decor created by refugee artisans.
Branson’s company is a long-standing one partner of Made51 by selling products in its retail stores. Proceeds from every Made51 sale go directly to refugees, helping them earn a living in their new host countries.
Their holiday collection features jewelry made by refugees from East Africa, Syria, Afghanistan, Mali, and Myanmar who are now living in different countries around the world.
The ornaments start at $13 each and are “beautifully handcrafted,” says Branson. “Not only do they add a pop of color to your tree, but they support a bright future for those who need it most.”
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