Decathlon – one of the world’s largest sporting goods retailers – has set up a €1m fund to help the victims of the deadly earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.
The owner of the Caperlan fishing brand says that three of its 42 stores in Turkey were seriously impacted by the disaster. In a post on its website, Decathlon said: “Out hearts go out to the victims, their families, the rescuers as well as our business partners, their teams and all those affected by the tragedy.
“Our immediate priority has been to ensure that our 2,400 team-mates in Turkey were safe and sound and to provide them with all the support they needed. We remain in constant contact with our local teams to ensure their safety and meet their most urgent needs.
“From the first 24 hours, our people in Turkey collected and sent material – warm clothes and winter equipment – worth €1m to help the affected population.”
In addition, Decathlon revealed that it has set up €1m solidarity fund to help support the actions of the aid organisations mobilised to help and support the victims.
Barbara Martin Coppola (above), CEO of Decathlon, said: “The disaster in Turkey and Syria affects us all. We will continue our mobilisation with NGOs and other companies through our products and with our team-mates around the world. In this crisis, let us be united as a sign of friendship and international solidarity.”