MRBA Launches 'Christmas Cracker' Fundraiser

In the UK, the Market Research Benevolent Association (MRBA) has launched its first 'Christmas Cracker' fundraising event, to raise money to help research industry execs and their families who have fallen on hard times.

Founded in 1977, the MRBA is the sector's only registered, independent UK charity, funded entirely by donations, mainly raised through its annual auction and golf days, and lending its support to those who have worked in the industry and are facing financial difficulties. According to research conducted by digital MR agency Watermelon in August, 76% of research businesses surveyed experienced a decline in revenue as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and there have been hundreds of furloughs and redundancies within the industry.

The new Christmas Cracker initiative will comprise a series of 'fun, digital, seasonal events' taking place from 7th to 11th December, and aims to 'lift the mood' as well as encourage donations. A festive pub quiz will be hosted by Stewart Tippler, European Representative at Quirk's, which is sponsoring the prize of a £100 Amazon voucher. In addition, there will be a detox stretching session, a Christmas jumper tag challenge on social media, and more events yet to be announced.

Funds raised will support grants and interest-free loans to help individuals pay bills, rent, council tax, mortgages and food shops; bursaries will be available for those wishing to study for the MRS Advanced Certificate in Market and Social Research Practice; and there will be funding for mental health support services. Ian Brace, Chairman of MRBA, comments: 'Christmas is the time for people to unite, and this year we urgently need the market research sector to come together to help each other. We've successfully helped hundreds of people over the years, and this year we want to help even more so that everyone can enjoy a truly merry Christmas'.

The MRBA is online at www.mrba.org.uk and registration for its Christmas events is available at: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mrba-christmas-cracker-pub-quiz-tickets-129481971061 and www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mrba-christmas-cracker-stretching-session-tickets-129489642005 .